One million reasons to tap and travel with Metlink

More than a million Metlink trips have now been paid for using debit and credit cards, and smart phones and watches. The milestone was reached in September after technology enabling these contactless payment options was introduced in mid-April.

Greater Wellington Chair Daran Ponter says Wellingtonians had long asked for the technology, which has quickly become a trusted and popular way to travel. 

“A million trips shows passengers have confidence in our system and value having more ways to pay for public transport,” Cr Ponter says.

“Targeted at Snapper customers paying the standard adult fare, our passengers are embracing the convenience of paying for bus and train journeys with cards and devices they already carry. 

“Feedback tells us the convenience and security of the system is making public transport easier and more accessible for passengers to travel around the region. 

The uptake also gives passengers a headstart ahead of next year’s introduction of the National Ticketing Solution (NTS) in Wellington. Snapper cards will continue to be accepted on Metlink buses and trains until the NTS arrives.

Under the new system, passengers will be able to pay with credit, debit, Motu Move cards and eligible devices on public transport networks across the country.

Greater Wellington Public Transport Committee Chair Ros Connelly says the growing use of contactless payments is helping familiarise Metlink customers with technology underpinning the NTS.

“By giving people more ways to pay, Metlink is making the shift to the NTS easier, and becoming a faster, more efficient public transport network,” Cr Connelly says.

“We’re committed to creating a seamless public transport experience across the country. The milestone shows customers have built trust in the system, and that Metlink did the right thing for its passengers by introducing the technology prior to the arrival of the NTS.” 

Cr Connelly says contactless payments will also support the future removal of cash fares from Metlink services.

“Handling cash on vehicles slows boarding, adds costs, and is increasingly out of step with how people pay for services. As our fare payment system evolves, we’re futureproofing Metlink by giving passengers access to a broader array of contactless payment options.”