SuperGold cardholders will lose free weekday afternoon travel on Greater Christchurch public transport later this year, with fares to apply between 3pm and 6.30pm.

The change will affect services across Christchurch, Waimakariri and Selwyn when the new national public transport ticketing system, Motu Move, is introduced.

Environment Canterbury has funded the additional afternoon free travel period since 2022, extending the hours covered by the national SuperGold scheme.

That local extension will end as the council brings its free travel hours into line with the nationally funded scheme.

SuperGold passengers will continue to travel free on weekdays between 9am and 3pm and after 6.30pm, as well as all day on weekends and public holidays.

The implementation date has yet to be confirmed, but Environment Canterbury said passengers would receive advance notice.

Public Transport Core Service Lead Councillor Joe Davies acknowledged the change would leave some passengers paying more.

“We recognise this change will affect some SuperGold customers and will result in additional travel costs for people who currently travel during the weekday afternoon period.”

Environment Canterbury said public transport patronage had continued to grow, particularly during the afternoon. It said returning to national travel hours would focus the concession on periods of lower demand and support a consistent ticketing system across New Zealand.

Davies said Metro would help passengers prepare.

“Our Metro team will provide clear information and support to help customers prepare for the change. We’ll use a range of channels to explain what’s changing, when it will happen, and what support is available to help customers transition to Motu Move, including assistance in local communities.”

Metro bus fares are $3 for adults and $1.50 for Community Services Card holders using a Metrocard or contactless payment. Diamond Harbour ferry fares are $5 for adults and $2.50 for Community Services Card holders. Daily and weekly fare caps apply.

There will be no change to SuperGold travel hours on Timaru and Temuka services, which already follow the national scheme.