13 May 2004

All-day train passes extending further south

Pukekohe train passengers will have cheaper daily fares under a trial scheme that extends the boundaries of day-rover passes further south.

The new trial initiative means an adult or family can make unlimited trips along the Tranz Metro rail network between Pukekohe and Waitakere, all day after 9 am.

A single adult or child travels for $10, while a family can travel for $20.

The day-rover pass currently only extends to Papakura along the Southern Line, for the same price.

Auckland Regional Councillor Dianne Glenn (Franklin-Papakura representative), says since services to and from Pukekohe were increased last year, there has been a swell in patronage.

“Now around 200 people make trips to and from the Pukekohe station every day”.

The scheme is a joint initiative between the ARC and Toll NZ (formerly Tranz Rail Limited), which is current operator of the Auckland passenger trains.

Cr Dianne Glenn says the passes will especially benefit those who use the trains several times a day.

“It will make travelling more affordable and user-friendly for Pukekohe passengers, and its great news for Franklin families, who were previously left out of the day-rover cost-saving scheme.

“Now one adult and five children, or two adults and four children, can travel to and from the station all day at an affordable rate”, she says.

The day-pass extension will run for a three-month trial period, including the school holidays, from May 17, before being reviewed in August.

ENDS

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