Free travel on Christmas Day and special bus and train timetables are part of Metlink’s summer schedule, as improvements are made to the rail network.

Passengers using public transport between 25 December and 11 January are encouraged to plan ahead before travelling, says Metlink group manager Samantha Gain.

“During this period, when many passengers are on holiday, vital upgrades will be made to the rail network,” says Gain.

“Buses will replace trains using weekend schedules and passengers should familiarise themselves with the summer schedule while this essential work takes place.

“The Melling Line will close with no bus replacement services between 25 December and 11 January. Train services on the line will resume from 12 January, departing and terminating at Western Hutt Station due to the closure of Melling Station from 24 December.

Christmas Day travel is free again on Metlink services, excluding the Airport Express, Total Mobility taxis and harbour ferries, which do not sail on 25 December. Buses will replace Wairarapa Line train services on Christmas Day.

“Please help us measure patronage by tagging on and off as usual on Christmas Day” adds Gain. “You will not be charged a fare.”

For more information, visit: Metlink » summer schedule: https://www.metlink.org.nz/news-and-updates/news/summer-timetable-2025-26

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