Community Connect Application
You may be eligible for 50% off Metlink public transport, if:
You’re 16+, and
- A New Zealand citizen, or permanent resident, or refugee, and normally live in New Zealand, and
- earning under $36,000 a year
Meeting these criteria may mean you qualify for a Community Services Card, which unlocks 50% off Metlink public transport fares.
What you’ll get with a Community Services Card
A Community Services Card gives you:
- 50% off adult fares on Metlink buses, trains and ferries when you link it to your red Snapper card with the Community Connect Concession(external link)
- Cheaper healthcare and discounts at places like cinemas and other services.(external link)
The Community Services Card is administered by Work and Income, but you don't have to be receiving a benefit or allowance from them to be eligible.
How to get 50% off Metlink Fares
If you think you fit the criteria, follow the steps below. We know applications can be a pain, so if you get stuck, reach out to the Metlink Contact Centre(external link)
Step 1: Check if you're eligible for a Community Services Card
(If you already have a Community Services Card, jump to Step 2)
Start by checking whether you’re eligible for a Community Services Card through Work and Income
If you’re eligible, follow the link below to apply. You’ll need to:
- Complete an application form
- Prove your identify (for example, a passport, birth certificate or drivers licence)
If you don’t have suitable ID or need help with the identify check, you can visit a Work and Income Service Centre,(external link) where staff can help you through the process.
Step 2: Get a red Snapper card
-
Use the one you already have, or
-
Apply for your first Snapper card for free through Metlink(external link) once your Community Services Card application has been accepted; or
Step 3: Link your Snapper card with your Community Services Card
Link your Snapper card with your Community Services Card using the link below to activate the Community Connect Concession – this concession gives you 50% off Metlink public transport.
Once linked, you’ll automatically receive 50% off adult Metlink fares when using your Snapper card.
If you get stuck, reach out to the Metlink Contact Centre.(external link)
Frequently Asked Questions
Content coming soon
Last published: Thursday, 5 February 2026 at 3:00 pm