Aucklanders who sneak onto public transport without paying now face a hefty fine if caught, as new rules come into force on Monday.
Instant fines of $150 will be issued to passengers who don't carry tickets. If they contest it in the courts, that could rise to $500.
Auckland Transport spokesperson James Ireland says fare evaders are a huge problem.
"It costs ratepayers and taxpayers $2-3 million a year, so it's a considerable amount of money."
Mr Ireland hopes the problem can be stopped in its tracks.
"Fare evasion is quite a big issue in Auckland. At any one time between 4 and 6 percent of people using public transport haven't paid for it."
Mr Ireland says it's a shame the council has been left with no other option.
Transport officers, who hold a warrant from the Commissioner of Police, began working on the train network late last year. They currently patrol the Western and Onehunga train lines.
As Auckland Transport recruits more staff they will begin to work on other services as well.
Newshub.
