The NZ Transport Agency says it looks forward to discussions with Snapper and the Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) on how the Snapper system could be made compatible with integrated ticketing nationally and in Auckland. Last month the NZTA agreed to establish a national ticketing programme for public transport in New Zealand, and approved funding for the development of the ARTA's integrated ticketing and fares systems as a first step.

NZTA Chief Executive Geoff Dangerfield said the national system will be flexible enough to allow future technologies and electronic ticket providers to connect to the central system, provided they meet the technical standards defined by the NZTA, with individual public transport operators able to decide which electronic ticketing equipment best meets their business needs.

"We are committed to providing opportunities for multiple private sector providers to be fully engaged in the various technologies that facilitate a functioning integrated ticketing system. Our focus will be on maintaining standards, options, choice and competitive tensions to ensure value for money and improvements in the effectiveness of public transport services.

"We're keen to work with ARTA and Snapper to ensure these initial proposals are compatible with a fully integrated ticketing system across all public transport operators in Auckland".

Mr Dangerfield said the NZTA would continue to engage with a range of technology and transport operators to ensure that their preferences with respect to electronic ticketing are advanced both in Auckland and nationally. This was important to ensure that the technical standards and issues of interoperability have industry backing.

"We're focussed on delivering a national integrated ticketing system to provide better public transport for all New Zealanders, and we're keen to work closely with everyone who shares that goal."