Heads Up: Changes Are Coming to the Tertiary Student Metrocard

There are some upcoming changes to public transport fares in Greater Christchurch happening from 7th July 2025. If you have a Tertiary Student Metrocard, here’s what you need to know.

🚌 What’s changing?
The Tertiary fare concession is being discontinued, and new Tertiary Student Metrocards will no longer be issued. This is because most students are already covered by existing discounts, like the Youth fare and the Community Services Card concession.

What does this mean for you? 🤔

• Keep using your Tertiary Student Metrocard – it will still work for travel on Metro services.
• Once the fare change takes effect, your card will automatically apply the Youth fare ($2.50 for bus, $4.50 for ferry)
• Got a Community Services Card? Apply it to your Metrocard for an even cheaper fare ($1.50 for bus, $2.50 for ferry)
• Make sure your Metrocard is linked to an online account. This allows Metro to contact you directly about any future changes, protects your balance if your card is lost or stolen, and lets you top up online. Check by trying to log in at www.metro.co.nz.

📄 From 30 June 2025, the Tertiary Student Metrocard Terms and Conditions will be retired. The standard Metrocard Terms of Use will apply to all cardholders.

Questions? Metro is here to help. Contact them on 03 366 8855 or at metro@ecan.govt.nz

Not got a Community Services Card yet? You might be eligible – and it’s worth it.

If you don’t already have a Community Services Card, it’s worth checking if you’re eligible. The card gives access to the lowest Metro fares ($1.50 for bus, $2.50 for ferry), plus discounts on healthcare, prescriptions, and more. Many students receiving a Student Allowance or other support get the card automatically, but others can apply by downloading a form from the Work and Income website. Once approved, you should make sure to link the card to a Metrocard to access the discounted fares.