Tranz Metro Welcomes SuperGold Free Travel

Tranz Metro Press Information

26 September 2008

Tranz Metro Welcomes SuperGold Free Travel and Urges Passengers to Check Their Train is Eligible

Tranz Metro in Wellington has welcomed the announcement by the New Zealand Government that SuperGold Card holders will be able to catch less busy local train services for free. However Tranz Metro is stressing that only trains that leave between specific times are eligible.

“We are giving a thumbs up to the initiative allowing free travel on our environmentally clean and convenient train services for SuperGold card holders,” comments Graeme Mowday, Tranz Metro’s marketing manager. “Focusing on our less busy services means more people can enjoy a trip to the city, to visit friends, for business or pleasure. We have the capacity for extra passengers on these quieter services.”

However Mr Mowday is urging SuperGold card holders to check that the train they wish to catch is eligible under the Government scheme. “Weekday services which leave a station after 9am and before 3pm, or after 6.30pm are all eligible so passengers need to check what time the train leaves to make sure it is a service eligible for free travel.”

“Weekends and public holidays are far easier as all Tranz Metro services are free for SuperGold card holders,” adds Mr Mowday. “However to take advantage of free travel passengers will have to show their SuperGold card so they need to bring it with them.”

Detailed information on which train services are eligible for free travel from the 1st October under the SuperGold free travel scheme is available in leaflets from main stations and Tranz Metro ticket agents, online at www.tranzmetro.co.nz or from Metlink on 0800 801 700.

ENDS

Note to Editors:

The scheme newly announced by the New Zealand government provides for free off peak local travel to SuperGold card holders from the 1st October 2008. These cards are issued to New Zealanders over 65 years of age, and also veterans of the armed forces of any age. More information is available from www.supergold.govt.nz.

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