Metro’s Greater Christchurch network breaks post-earthquake patronage record

Chris Lynch
Chris Lynch
Aug 22, 2024 |
Photo: Environment Canterbury
Metro’s Greater Christchurch public transport network has achieved a new milestone, surpassing its previous post-earthquake patronage record with nearly 14.5 million passenger trips recorded in the 2023-24 financial year.
This figure marks a 2.8 per cent increase over the former record of almost 14.1 million trips set in the 2013-14 financial year.

Metro spokesperson Thomas McNaughton said “our network is going from strength to strength, and we’re excited to see our patronage numbers continue to rise.”

The data reveals that 138,000 customers boarded Metro services using their Metrocard during the financial year, with an estimated 28 per cent of the Greater Christchurch population utilising the service in the past 12 months.

Environment Canterbury Councillor Joe Davies said  “this jump in patronage is encouraging, supported by our $2 flat fare trial.”

The $2 flat fare trial, which is set to continue until June 2025, is cited as a significant factor in the recent surge in passengers.

McNaughton said “we want to thank our customers for choosing public transport – they are the reason we are able to hit these milestones, which are a positive for both our environment and our community,” he said.

 

Chris Lynch
Chris Lynch

Chris Lynch is a journalist, videographer and content producer, broadcasting from his independent news and production company in Christchurch, New Zealand. If you have a news tip or are interested in video content, email [email protected]

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