Palmerston North to Wellington commuter train
The Capital Connection is a long-distance commuter train that travels weekdays between Palmerston North and Wellington.
Departing Palmerston North at 6:15 am, the train stops at Shannon, Levin, Otaki, Waikanae, and Paraparaumu before arriving in Wellington at 8:20 am. Find your fare price.
Managed by local councils and operated by KiwiRail, this service does not operate on public holidays.
Public Holidays
Holiday Schedule for Capital Connection
Please note the upcoming service changes during the festive season.
Capital Connection fares
For current fares, please view the fare guide.
The cheapest way to travel on the Capital Connection is by purchasing a monthly travel pass or ten-trip pass.
Tickets can be purchased from:
Concession Fares
From 1 July 2023, under a government initiative, selected groups will receive a 50% concession rate on public transport.
The student age limit will be raised to 25, and additional benefits will be provided for children under 14.
- Children 13 and under – FREE.
- Under 25’s (14 – 24) – 50% off standard fares.
- Full-time studying Tertiary students with a current Tertiary ID - 50% off standard fares.
- Community Service card holders - 50% off standard fares.
- Total Mobility users - 50% off standard fares.
- Super Gold card holders - 50% off standard fares.
Appropriate ID must be carried if you intend to travel on concession fares.
Capital Connection timetable
Tickets & Cash Fares Only
Snapper Cards are NOT accepted on Capital Connection:
- Paper tickets, including monthly and ten-trip passes, can be purchased on board
- Credit cards can be used in the onboard café
Staying up to date
For latest arrival and departure times:
- Call 0800 ARRIVAL (0800 277 482) and select option 7
For general enquiries email:
Text alert service:
Please note:
- Metlink tickets or Snapper cards are not accepted on the Capital Connection
- Seats are not guaranteed
- Fares are subject to change without notice
- Children aged 13 and under must be accompanied by a guardian aged 14 and over
Covid Protection Status
There are no mandatory requirements in operation.
However, we do recommend using a face mask for your own protection and request that you do not travel if you have any Covid-19 symptoms.
Bicycles
Bicycles can be conveyed on the Capital Connection in the baggage van subject to space availability. Please make yourself known to the Train Manager as they will place your bicycle on board.
Wheelchairs
The Capital Connection is fitted with a hoist/lift to assist passenger access. Please make yourself known to a member of the crew or station staff if you require assistance boarding the train.
Luggage
- Baggage allowance is two items per person, maximum weight 20kg per item.
- Size must be no more than 200 linear cm (height plus length plus width)
- Hand baggage may be taken on board, with larger items stored in the baggage van.