We’ll be testing a key part of the new payment system on Route 29 (Airport – City) from December to help make sure things go smoothly when we roll out Motu Move across Canterbury next year.
From 8 December, you will be able to pay a standard adult fare ($2) with your contactless debit or credit card, mobile phone or smart watch. Metrocards and cash fares will also continue to be available.
The pilot will continue until Motu Move is rolled out in Christchurch, Waimakariri and Selwyn in 2025. See our Motu Move page for more information on the project.
Using contactless payments on Route 29
Once the pilot launches, you will notice new Motu Move branded card readers on the right as you board the bus.
Credit/debit cards
The new card readers will be able to take payment from contactless debit or credit cards. All Visa, MasterCard or American Express cards are accepted.
If your card has a microchip or contactless symbol, and you use contactless payments elsewhere, then you’re good to go!
Mobile payments
You will also be able to tag on with mobile payments such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay on your phone or device.
For more information on payments and how they are processed, please see the Motu Move website.
Child fares and other Concessions
Continue to use your MetroCard on Route 29 if you usually pay a $1 child fare or concession such as Community Service Card holder, Total Mobility, under 25 or tertiary.
If you’re a SuperGold card holder, you can continue to show your SuperGold card after 9am on weekdays or anytime on weekends to ride for free.
Outside of these times, SuperGold cardholders can pay using their credit or debit card, Metrocard, or cash.
Important information for the new pilot
Pay with your Metrocard if you transfer between services
The pilot will not support transfers. Please use your Metrocard or cash if you intend to transfer to another service.
No need to tag off yet
You don’t need to tag off during the pilot. Tagging off on Greater Christchurch Metro services will be implemented once Motu Move is rolled out in full next year.
Travelling with friends or family
The payment technology being tested currently charges a single $2 adult fare only. If you need to pay for multiple people you can use a Metrocard or cash. Please note that you will not be able to tag on twice with the same debit or credit card.
Fare caps
Our current daily and weekly fare caps will still apply when paying with your debit or credit card, as long as you tag on with the same card or device for every trip you make on Route 29. However, those payments will not be added together with fares you pay on other Metro services.
If you also use other Metro services, then continue to pay with your Metrocard on Route 29 to make sure you’re taking full advantage of the fare caps.
For more information on fare caps, please visit our Metrocard benefits page.
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