The integration enables contactless fare payments and aligns with Auckland Transport’s technology framework. Credit: Hitachi Rail.

Hitachi Rail and Auckland Transport have deployed contactless payments for seamless multimodal travel in Auckland, New Zealand.

Commuters can now use Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, or American Express debit or credit cards, as well as digital wallets on smartphones or smart devices for seamless journeys.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

The project entailed a comprehensive upgrade of the payment validation infrastructure, including the integration of the Transcity account-based ticketing (ABT) back-office and application programming interfaces (APIs), 3,825 bus validators and 180 platform validators.

This was achieved through staged hardware and software upgrades that allowed for the implementation of the technology without disrupting passenger journeys.

In addition, 100 new card readers for gates at rail and ferry platforms were installed.

The integration of all of Auckland Transport’s services, which includes train, bus, and ferry operations, was a crucial part of the project deliverables.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

This integration supports various contactless fare payments and harmonises with Auckland Transport’s existing technology framework.

Auckland Transport chief technology officer Roger Jones said: “AT will continue to invest in ways to make it easy, safe, and reliable to get around using public transport.

“Working with Hitachi Rail to seamlessly enable contactless payments to be accepted across our public transport network is one example of this investment.”

Auckland’s contactless ticketing system has recorded 3.5 million taps since launching in November 2024.

The system went live across Auckland’s public transport network in 15 months from project launch to full implementation.

Hitachi Rail RCS vice president Jean-Marc Reynaud said: “This contract celebrates the long-lasting support of Hitachi Rail to Auckland Transport for the integrated fare system in the city.”

Last month, Hitachi Rail, in partnership with SISINT and Conecticabo, secured contracts from Infraestruturas de Portugal to upgrade telecommunications and passenger information systems on Lisbon’s Cascais Line.

The project includes deploying a fully automated Passenger Information System across all stations.

Railway Technology Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Railway Technology Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now