"Free public transport for under 16-year-olds on weekends and public holidays will build on this progress by getting more families onto buses and trains and encouraging the next generation of Aucklanders into becoming public transport users."
Goff said he hoped Auckland families would make the most of the free weekend and public holiday fares for under-16s by getting out exploring the region.
North Shore councillors Chris Darby and Richard Hills also welcomed the initiative, saying it would improve public transport accessibility for young people and better utilise existing capacity.
"The cost of public transport is a big barrier to young people and families getting around and connecting," Darby said.
"Fare-free weekends for under 16s connects young Aucklanders to new places and each other and makes their lives more social and exciting.
"Like our seniors are deserving of fare-free travel so too are our children, who can least afford to pay their way."
Hills said it was anther "great step forward" in making public transport more affordable and accessible for families and young people.
"It will encourage more people to explore our city and encourage new users to become long-term public transport users."
