Electric news – rail no fail during fuel shock

Electrification of Auckland’s rail network could not have come soon enough given the current fuel crisis.

While electrification of the majority of the network was completed by 2014, Pukekohe finally came online in February last year, ditching the need for diesel trains.

Shielded from rocketing fuel prices, Auckland Transport’s services have seen a rise in use.
The new City Rail Link (CRL) should encourage even more Aucklanders to take to the trains, Auckland Council’s Transport and Infrastructure Delivery Committee chair, and Franklin Ward councillor, Andy Baker says.

“The CRL will open up easy and efficient travel in and around the city for those further from the city centre, while connecting the likes of Pukekohe and Franklin with our urban population. Everywhere will benefit.”

The CRL itself, the upgrade of neighbourhoods around new stations and a higher frequency timetable will all improve how the city moves, grows and competes, Baker expects.

“When the new stations open, I think Aucklanders will be proud of what they see. We have built stunning long-term assets for the city. Our city centre has been regenerated, and we’re ready. I’m excited that Aucklanders will soon be able to enjoy it.”

The economic advantages of the new transport network will be widespread, Auckland Council chief economist, Gary Blick, says.

“A more productive Auckland is not only more competitive in attracting people, skills, and investment; ultimately it’s a more liveable place for everyone.”

In this respect, the CRL is much more than a transport project, location director for the city centre, Simon Oddie, adds.

“It’s a city-shaping investment. Our new station neighbourhoods have created places that connect people seamlessly to jobs, learning, culture and daily life, while supporting a more walkable, resilient and low-carbon city centre.”

Franklin stations on track

Work on three new railway stations in Franklin is progressing at pace. While Drury and Paerātā stations are both expected to be operational within the next few months, Ngākōroa, located in Drury West, should be open for business next year.

The stations will provide more accessible public transport, faster connections into the city, and they will help reduce congestion on local roads, Viknesh Kugadas from KiwiRail expects.

“KiwiRail and our contractors have been working hard over the past few years to deliver new railway stations for south Auckland ahead of anticipated population growth, supported by significant government investment, he says.

“As we enter the final stages of construction for the Drury and Paerātā Railway Stations, we have been pleased to see the successful power connection to the main switchboard at Drury and Paerātā – an exciting milestone for the project.”