Seamless Open Loop: Auckland Transport’s Contactless Payment Success

Assurity Consulting (Assurity), New Zealand’s leading quality engineering consultancy, ensured Auckland Transport’s (AT) Open Loop contactless payment system launched seamlessly. The system enables commuters to pay for bus, train and ferry rides using contactless debit or credit cards, Apple Pay or Google Pay, reducing reliance on AT HOP cards and enhancing accessibility. Open Loop supports AT’s vision to increase ridership, lower emissions and prepare for New Zealand’s National Ticketing Solution (NTS) by 2026. Assurity’s rigorous testing guaranteed reliability, security and a smooth commuter experience.

Why Open Loop Matters  

• Accessibility: Enables easy payment for casual users and tourists without requiring AT HOP cards, removing barriers to public transport use.  
• Impact: Millions of error-free transactions since its launch in November 2024, earning widespread approval.  
• Ridership Boost: Significant increases in commuter usage, particularly in Pukekohe, advancing AT’s sustainability goals to cut emissions.  

Behind the Scenes: How Assurity Delivered Success  

Assurity was engaged following a competitive RFP process in late 2023. The consultancy brought its deep expertise in enterprise payment systems and a proven track record with AT’s prior automation projects. The testing strategy ensured seamless integration with third-party providers like Windcave and PCI PAL, despite the system’s complexity.

Key Testing Highlights

• Shift-Left Strategy: Early defect identification and resolution to guarantee system reliability and minimise risks.  
• Comprehensive Testing Approach:  
  • System Testing: Validated hardware and payment processing.  
  • User Acceptance Testing (UAT): Tailored for real-world commuter needs.  
  • Production Verification Testing (PVT): Simulated operational scenarios.  
  • Beta Testing: Incorporated user feedback to refine the experience.  
  • Collaborative Integration: Coordinated with vendors to meet compliance and security standards, ensuring a seamless user journey.  

“The systems behind Open Loop may seem invisible to the average commuter, but they’re complex and integral to a flawless experience,” explains Assurity CEO Steve Mitchell. “Testing is the backbone of innovation in enterprise software, it reduces risk, preserves reputation, and ensures long-term reliability.”

A Benchmark for Sustainable Public Transport  

Open Loop marks a milestone in Auckland’s public transport modernisation, providing an accessible solution that supports environmental sustainability and user trust. It also sets the stage for the upcoming National Ticketing Solution.

“Assurity’s testing expertise gave us a system that’s commuter-friendly, secure and reliable,” says Hari Emani, AT’s test manager. “When travel is easier, people use public transport more often, and this directly supports our sustainability goals. We’ve seen particularly strong adoption among visitors, both domestic and international, with many choosing public transport thanks to the convenience of using their existing debit or credit cards.”

Mitchell concludes, “Our collaboration with AT showcases the transformative role of testing in delivering reliable systems that align with long-term goals like accessibility and environmental impact.”