From Sunday, December 14, tertiary students across Auckland get 40 per cent off fares, easing costs for Hibiscus Coast commuters.

Auckland Transport is doubling its tertiary student concession from 20 per cent to 40 per cent, matching the discount already offered to children aged 5–12 and secondary students.

The move responds to strong calls from students for cheaper travel.

Councillor Andy Baker says more than 51,000 students already have the concession on their AT HOP card, so they will pay less overnight when the new rate starts.

A regular two or three zone commute could save around $200 to $250 a year.

He says students could save about $5 million a year, while the higher discount may generate up to 3.6 million extra trips, without adding costs for ratepayers.

AT’s Director of Public Transport and Active Modes, Stacey van der Putten, says, “Public transport fares really do make a difference at a time in their lives when many are having to support themselves financially for the first time.”

Auckland University Students’ Association President Gabriel Boyd says, “These changes will allow students to prioritise their education without smashing the piggy bank.”

Student leaders at AUT say savings could help cover an extra week’s rent or a few more bus trips to class.

Universities say cheaper fares help remove a cost barrier to education and support student participation in campus and Auckland life.

They will partner with AT to promote the higher discount ahead of the 2026 academic year.

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