Fares
Public Transport full fare resumption and new concession rates increase.
The Government’s 50 percent discount on public transport ends on Friday, 30 June 2023, with Capital Connection fares returning to pre-subsidy levels on Monday, 3 July 2023.
As part of the Government initiative to permanently reduce public transport costs for the following groups, from 1 July the new concession rates will now be 50 percent (previously 30 percent). The student age will also increase to 25 (ID required) and there are additional benefits for children under 14.
- Children 13 and under – FREE.
- Under 25’s (14 – 24) – 50% off standard fares.(ID required)
- 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.
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
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.
Palmerston North to Wellington commuter train
The Capital Connection long-distance passenger train is a commuter service that operates on weekdays (Excluding Public Holidays) between Palmerston North and Wellington.
The train leaves Palmerston North at 6.15 am, stopping at Shannon, Levin, Otaki, Waikanae, Paraparaumu and arriving into Wellington at 8.20 am.
The Capital Connection service is run by local councils and operated by KiwiRail.
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:
Capital Connection timetable
Capital Connection fares
The cheapest way to travel on the Capital Connection is by purchasing a monthly travel pass or ten-trip pass.
For current fares, please view the fare guide.
Tickets can be purchased from:
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
Concession Fares
As part of the Government initiative to permanently reduce public transport costs for the following groups, from 1 July 2023, the new concession rates will be 50 percent (previously 30 percent).
The student age will also increase to 25 and there are additional benefits 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.
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.