txtTRAIN FAQ

Can I use free text for this service?

All text messages cost 20 cents and are not part of your free text allowance (eg. $10 Telecom, Vodafone Supa Prepay or free weekends)

Why did I receive an error message?

Errors could occur if:

• You text an incorrect or non-existent stop number abbreviation
• You text using numbers rather than letters in the station name eg, Crofton Downs "cr0f"
• There are no train trips in the next 23 hours serving the station
• the system is down and you will receive a message to say the system is not available
• you text wrong information and you will receive a message to say "sorry there are no train services that satisfy your request.

For help call Metlink on 0800 801 700.

Do I have to pay if the system is down?

All text messages cost 20 cents. However, the error message from Metlink will include the free 0800 801 700 Metlink phone number so you can get further information without incurring any additional cost.

What do I enter for the station names?

Simply use the first four letters of the station you’re catching the train from and your destination station e.g. for travel from Wellington to Johnsonville text “WELL JOHN” to TRN (876).

Why can't I just enter the name of the train line I use and receive the times?

The txtTRAIN system provides individual times for each train station. Other services may be developed in the future based on feedback. All text messages are limited by the 160 character limit.

Do I have to write the station names in upper-case?

No, you can write the station names in either lower or upper-case.

What should I write for Ava Station, which is only three letters?

txtTRAIN will accept “AVA” as a name even though it’s only three letters. For all other stations you must write the first four letters.

What happens when buses replace trains?

The scheduled times sent to you from txtTRAIN will still be accurate. We will endeavour to inform users of major disruptions to services where possible.