Snapper launches contact-less payment cards in Auckland - but misses out on ticketing
Cards offer convenience - but won't be compatible with coming Super City transport payment system.
The contactless payment network that has processed over 38,000,000 transactions since its start in 2006 has reached Auckland.
Infratil’s Snapper, an instant payment smartcard popular in Wellington, was launched in Auckland today. It can be used to pay for rides in 1,000 taxis, and to buy stuff at more than at 150 retail outlets - but won't be available for public transport (as it is in Wellington), or compatible with the super city's coming integrated transport payment system (more of which below).
The card can be loaded with money and is contactless, meaning no pins or signatures are required - just a good swiping arm.
Retail partners include Subway and Fix, and the card is marketed as saving time, cutting queues, being more convenient and allowing children controlled funds. Transactions reportedly take less than 4 seconds to complete.
The card is similar to the Korean T-Money card and uses triple DES encryption with a 168 bit key. CEO Miki Szikszai said the technology was “world class” and used in banks. “It’s the highest end of secure contactless technology.”
Won't be part of integrated transport payment system
Snapper is also in partnership with Auckland Transport and Thales to establish the Auckland Integrated Fares System, which will allow one method of payment on buses, trains and ferries.
However, the Snapper retail cards launched today will not be able to be used as part of the integrated system, communications and public affairs manager of Auckland Transport Wally Thomas said.
The integrated ticket will be a separate card, but Snapper technology will be utilised to “read” and process the card information, he said. Mr Thomas said the integrated fare system was rolled out firstly in NZ Bus Auckland buses this month, with roll out to other operators, trains and ferries expected within 12 months.
Infratil shares (NZX: IFT) were down 0.5% to $1.99 in late trading.
Alex Walls
Wed, 09 Mar 2011
Wed, 09 Mar 2011
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Snapper launches contact-less payment cards in Auckland - but misses out on ticketing
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