Less than two weeks left – have you moved to Motu Move?
With less than two weeks until Metrocard and cash are retired on Monday 23 November, Metro public transport users are quickly adapting to using Motu Move payment methods.
Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) Public Transport Lead Councillor Joe Davies says the numbers have now tipped toward Motu Move, New Zealand’s new public transport ticketing system.
“In the last couple of weeks, we’ve reached a significant milestone with more customers travelling using Motu Move than Metrocard – in fact, 54 per cent of Metro customers who travelled last week used Motu Move. We still need more concession customers to make the switch, but the overall response has been very encouraging, and we are now in the final two weeks before Metrocard and cash end on Monday 23 November,” says Councillor Davies.
Where we’re at
- More than two-thirds of standard adult fares and 50% of child fares are now being paid using Motu Move.
- More than 15,000 SuperGold customers have linked their concession to Motu Move.
- More than one-third of Community Services Card concession holders have registered.
- Only 10 per cent of youth concession holders age 19-24 have registered.
Make sure you are charged the correct fare
From Monday 23 November, customers who have not linked their concession to their Motu Move payment method will pay a full adult fare instead of a discounted fare.
Link your concession now to make sure you receive the correct fare when you travel.
If you pay a standard adult fare, you can just tag on with your contactless debit or credit card, phone or smartwatch. There's nothing to set up.
SuperGold cardholders
More time has been provided for SuperGold cardholders to get set up with Motu Move. Customers who haven't yet switched can continue to show their SuperGold card for free off-peak travel on Metro buses and ferries until early next year.
Councillor Davies said it was encouraging to see that more than 15,000 SuperGold cardholders are already using Motu Move.
“We know this is a big change for SuperGold customers, and there are some people who need in person support. This extra time allows local teams to reach those who need a hand.”
From 23 November, SuperGold free travel hours will line up with the national scheme: weekdays 9.00am to 3.00pm and after 6.30pm, and all day on weekends and public holidays. Outside these times, SuperGold cardholders will need to pay with a contactless debit or credit card or a prepaid Motu Move card.
Free Motu Move cards until 22 November
Prepaid Motu Move cards are available until 22 November from more than 100 retailers, with a $5 minimum initial top-up required. From 23 November, cards will cost $10, although children and Community Services Cardholders can still get one free card from the Bus Interchange.
Switch now if you can
Councillor Davies thanked everyone who had already switched.
“A huge thank you to everyone who’s already made the move.
“If you can get set up yourself, or with help from family or friends, please do it now. It only takes a few minutes. Most people don’t need to get a Motu Move card. They can simply link their concession to the contactless debit or credit card they already use every day,” he said.
The Motu Move team is continuing to run support sessions in the community. Find out where the team will be and when.
How to link a concession to Motu Move
- Create an account at motumove.govt.nz
- Add your debit or credit card, or a prepaid Motu Move card
- Link your concession to it
- Tag on with the same card every time you travel