Bus and ferry fares are set to increase for Metro services across Christchurch, Selwyn, and Waimakariri from Monday, 7 July, Environment Canterbury Regional Council has confirmed.
Council Chair, Craig Pauling said the fare increase was a result of a decision made by the Council in December last year.
“There’s no action needed for customers, aside from keeping their Metrocard topped up to allow for the new fare prices,” said Chair Pauling.
“We know fare changes are always going to have an impact on household budgets, and we considered this when making decisions last year. We have tried to keep the fares as low as possible for the community.”
The Council said Metro will continue to provide reliable and accessible public transport with the Metrocard bus fare moving to $3 or less for concession holders.
“We encourage customers eligible for concessions to review the changes to make sure they’re accessing the best fares from 7 July,” Councillor Joe Davies said.
Metrocard is still the best way to pay for Metro services, with lower fares and other benefits. There are no changes to cash fares, and SuperGold free travel periods, the Council advised.
Metrocard fares for Metro buses in Christchurch, Selwyn and Waimakariri will be:
- Standard Metrocard fare: $3.00
- Child Metrocard fare (5-18-years-old): $1.50
- Community Services Card Holder: $1.50
- Total Mobility Card Holder: $2.00
- Youth fare (19-24-years-old): $2.50
Metrocard fares for the Metro Diamond Harbour Ferry will increase to:
- Standard Metrocard fare: $5.00
- Child Metrocard fare (5-18-years-old): $2.50
- Community Services Card Holder: $2.50
- Total Mobility Card Holder: $4.00
- Youth fare (19-24-years-old): $4.50
Meanwhile, annual fare reviews for both Timaru and Greater Christchurch will be implemented from February 2026, following a Council decision in December.
Full details on the changes are available at metro.co.nz/newfares.
