What card do I use for buses in Wellington, and are peak and off-peak fares different?
In Wellington you use a Snapper card. Yes, fares are different. Bus peak times are weekdays 7–9am and 3–6:30pm. At all other times, including weekends and public holidays, you get 20% off with a Snapper card. If you tap a bank card, you pay the adult single fare plus a 1.5% fee.
Official figures
- Auckland: how to get a discounted fare
- You must use a registered AT HOP card. You cannot get a discount if you tap a bank card or phone (contactless) or pay cash.1
- Auckland: children (5–15)
- 40% off most buses, trains and ferries. Free on weekends and public holidays. (A registered AT HOP card is needed for both.)1
- Auckland: under 5
- Free when travelling with a paying passenger. They do not need their own AT HOP card.2
- Auckland: secondary students (16–19) and tertiary students
- Full-time secondary students aged 16–19 at school in Auckland, and full-time students at a registered Auckland tertiary institution: 40% off most buses, trains and ferries.1
- Auckland: Community Connect (Community Services Card holders)
- 50% off most buses, trains and ferries, plus a free AT HOP card.1
Official sources
- Discounted faresAuckland Transport · at.govt.nz
- Bus and train faresAuckland Transport · at.govt.nz
- Tickets & faresMetlink (Greater Wellington Regional Council) · metlink.org.nz
- SuperGold Transport ConcessionsMinistry of Social Development (SuperGold) · supergold.govt.nz
Read the full guide: Taking the bus: transport cards and discounts →
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Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.
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