Time is running out to have your say on the future of public transport

Date: 18 Jun 2026

With only a few days  until feedback closes, we’re encouraging everyone to share their thoughts on the Metro bus and ferry network, whether you use public transport or not.

We have already received more than 9700 submissions since the review opened, but we encourage anyone who has not yet had their say to do so before feedback closes on Wednesday 24 June 2026 by going to ecan.govt.nz/metroreview. 

Councillor Ashley Campbell said the response so far had been encouraging but urged people not to leave it too late.

“We’ve been really heartened by the number of people who have taken the time to share their thoughts, and it shows just how much our community cares about how we get around.

“With only a few days to go, we’re making one final call. If you haven’t given your feedback yet, please do. Whether you’re a daily public transport user, an occasional one, or you’ve never stepped on a Metro service in your life, your perspective matters to us.”

Why it matters

A well-functioning public transport network is one of the most effective ways to reduce congestion and keep people moving. When more people use public transport, it benefits everyone, including those who prefer to drive.  

The review will inform improvements to Metro bus and ferry services over the next decade (2027-37), and feedback from the community will play a key role in shaping those decisions.

Councillor Campbell said the review is a genuine opportunity for the community to influence long-term decisions.

“The decisions we make now will shape the network in Christchurch and the surrounding townships in Selwyn and Waimakariri for years to come. 

“We want to make sure what we deliver truly reflects what our communities need, and the only way we can do that is by hearing from as many people as possible. Please don’t leave it until it’s too late.”

Proposed changes to Route 44 and Route 135

As part of the review, we are also seeking feedback on a proposal to improve Route 44 Shirley/Westmorland and remove Route 135 New Brighton/The Palms, one of our lowest-performing services.

The proposed changes to Route 44 would improve reliability, extend the route to better serve residents in Prestons, and increase weekend frequency to every 30 minutes. Funding for the improvements would come from the removal of Route 135.

Find out more about the proposed changes to Routes 44 and 135, including how they could affect your journey.