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Aucklanders, tag into the future of public transport with new ways to pay Aucklanders, tag into the future of public transport with new ways to pay

Date: 17 November 2024

Today marks a major milestone for Auckland Transport with the official launch of new ways to pay across the public transport network.

Customers can now tag on and off buses, trains, and ferries with their choice of AT HOP card, contactless credit or debit card, smartphone or wearable device, making public transport more convenient than ever before.

This is a significant initiative aligning with AT’s broader strategy to improve accessibility and convenience for all people across Tāmaki Makaurau.

It is also an important milestone before ultimately moving across to the National Ticketing Solution in 2026.

Auckland’s Acting Mayor Desley Simpson said: “Contactless payments are a significant step forward, offering Aucklanders and visitors a seamless, convenient way to use public transport across the region.”

“We’re proud to lead the way as the first city in New Zealand to deliver a fully integrated contactless payment system across buses, trains, and ferries,” Councillor Simpson said.

“With approximately 70% of international visitors arriving through Auckland, this innovation will benefit tourists, New Zealand-based travellers, and Aucklanders without concessions, making tagging on and off easier for everyone.”

AT Director of Public Transport and Active Modes Stacey van der Putten said: “We are stoked to officially launch new ways to pay across our network, aligning with our broader strategy to make public transport easier and more accessible”.

“With this initiative, we wanted to make public transport easy for everyone. Whether you are a visitor, a daily commuter or just heading out for the day, we have made it simple to tag on and off - just like other international cities,” Ms van der Putten said.

“This rollout is unique as we have managed to bring this across all modes of public transport. It has been about breaking down a known barrier, so everyone feels welcome and confident hopping onboard.”

Important reminders for current customers:

AT encourages current customers to take note of the following guide to using the new system to pay the right fare on the right card:

  • Ensure the correct card is being read by separating your card or device before tagging on and off.
  • Be sure to tap on and off with the same card or device throughout your journey, to pay the correct fare.
  • Concession holders must continue using their existing AT HOP to access discounted fares.
  • If using your credit or debit card or smart device, you will pay a standard adult fare for your journey.

For more information on how to use contactless payments across the network, visit www.at.govt.nz/waystopay