Metlink’s advertised 2.2% fare increase takes effect Tuesday 1 July, but off-peak commuters will feel a much sharper sting, as Snapper card discounts drop from 50% to 30% – effectively a 39.6% fare hike for those trips.
The Greater Wellington Regional Council approved the changes in February, citing inflation and pressure to keep rates affordable. But with public transport funding under strain, the council is now relying more heavily on fare revenue to meet government-imposed Private Share targets.
“To keep rates affordable, we need to increase fares at a time when public transport funding is being squeezed,” said council chair Daran Ponter.
While the 2.2% increase applies to standard peak fares, the reduced off-peak discount significantly impacts those who rely on cheaper travel times. For instance, a three-zone adult Snapper fare that previously cost $2.22 off-peak will now jump to $3.17 – a 39.6% increase. At peak times, the same trip will cost $4.53.
Ponter acknowledged cost-of-living challenges but pointed to fiscal headwinds and a $134 million funding shortfall after more than 40 Metlink projects were rejected for funding under the National Land Transport Programme.
“These were projects that would improve public transport, increase patronage and Private Share revenue,” he said. “Their rejection suggests a misalignment in government strategy.”
In the Wairarapa, fare refunds will be offered for some rail replacement bus services, including the 3:38pm and 8:14pm services from Masterton, and the 6:18pm and 10:25pm from Wellington.
“We’ve heard Wairarapa passengers loud and clear,” said deputy chair Adrienne Staples. “These refunds acknowledge their frustration while we work with KiwiRail and Transdev to restore full rail services by September.”
SuperGold card holders retain free off-peak travel for now, and other concessions remain unchanged. Off-peak travel times are before 7am and between 9am–3pm, after 6:30pm, and all day on weekends and public holidays for buses and trains. Harbour ferries and Airport Express services are excluded from the discount.