Goodbye Metrocard, Hello Motu Move

Published: 13-Oct-2026

Metrocards can no longer be purchased at Kaiapoi and Rangiora Libraries.

Person on a public transport vehicle tapping a contactless card on a ticket validator while holding a smartphone.

Motu Move, the national payment system for public transport, is entering its next rollout phase. You can read more about this phase on Environment Canterbury's website. What's Changed?

  • You can now board Metro services using a contactless debit card, credit card, mobile phone, smartwatch or prepaid Motu Move card
  • New Metrocards cannot be purchased.  You can still top up and use your Metrocard until 23 November
  • Cash payments are being phased out. The last day for cash payments on Metro services is 23 November
  • Prepaid Motu Move cards can be purchased from selected retailers or ordered online via the Motu Move website. For a limited time, cards will be provided free with an initial $5 top-up from any of the participating retailers. Cards ordered online through the Motu Move website will cost $10. We do not currently sell Motu Move cards at Waimakariri Libraries
  • Child, Youth, Community Services Card, SuperGold and Total Mobility concessions can be linked to all Motu Move payment methods
  • From 23 November, you can use a Motu Move card to pay for other passengers.

Motu Move Ambassadors will be available to help with the transition to Motu Move at the following dates and times:

Kaiapoi Library

Wednesday 21 October 10am - 4pm

Friday 30 October 10am - 4pm

Thursday 5 November 10am - 4pm

Monday 9 November 10am - 4pm

Friday 20 November 10am - 4pm

Rangiora Library

Thursday 22 October 10am - 4pm

Saturday 31 October 10am - 2pm

Friday 6 November 10am - 4pm

Thursday 12 November 10am - 4pm

Monday 16 November 10am - 4pm