Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
Bus and ferry passengers in Greater Christchurch will soon be able to pay fares using credit or debit cards, phones or smart watches, with the National Ticketing Solution (NTS), known as Motu Move, starting in the region on Monday 10 November.
“We’re very pleased to confirm the start date for our first stage of rolling out Motu Move in Greater Christchurch. This follows a successful trial of the contactless payment system on the Route 29 bus from Christchurch Airport to the city,” says NTS Programme Director Roger Jones.
“Motu Move will bring new contactless ways to pay for public transport, making it easier for everyone to use public transport, including commuters, visitors to the city and casual users.”
With the launch of contactless payments on Metro bus and ferry services from 10 November, customers will be able to use their debit or credit card, phone or smart watch to pay for a standard adult non-concession fare, alongside existing Metrocard and cash payment options. This is the first stage of the Motu Move rollout in the region, with more customer features and ways to pay for public transport coming in 2026.
Concession holders should continue to pay as usual, until concession fares are added to Motu Move next year. Prepaid Motu Move cards will be available from mid-2026, replacing Metrocard.
“As we prepare for the full roll-out of Motu Move, we’ll be working closely with our customers to ensure those that need to choose a new way to pay are well supported and prepared,” says Giles Southwell, Environment Canterbury’s Director Corporate & Public Transport Services.
Motu Move is targeted to be operational throughout New Zealand by the end of 2027.
