Auckland Regional Transport Authority
August 11th, 2006

Changes to Services this Saturday as Western Line Double Tracking Continues

Train services will be replaced by buses this Saturday 12 August, and each Saturday in August between Henderson and Waitakere as construction work to build a second train track on the Western Line continues.

Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) General Manager, Infrastructure and Rail; Elena Trout, said that between 7.00am and 7.20pm every Saturday, regular train services between Henderson and Waitakere stations will be serviced by buses to allow double tracking construction work to continue on the Western Line. Where buses replace trains, the normal train fare will apply for the entire journey.

“The disruptions to passengers will be minimal, but as regular journey times may vary, we are advising passengers to allow more time for their journey,” Ms Trout said.

“Train staff will be on hand to help passengers transfer from trains to the replacement buses.”

Buses will also be used to service stations from Waitakere to Henderson for the 2006 Bledisloe Cup game on Saturday 19 August.

“Four buses will depart Henderson between 1.59pm and 4.29pm, taking passengers to Henderson. At Henderson station, passengers will be transferred to trains taking them to Kingsland station located right next to Eden Park, in time for kick-off,” she said.

“At the conclusion of the game, trains will run all the way back to Waitakere station.”

Ms Trout said that laying a second track along the Western Line construction is an on-going rail upgrade project. ARTA will continue to work closely with the track owners ONTRACK and train operator Veolia Transport Auckland Ltd to ensure construction activities minimise any effects on passenger services.

“The introduction of a second track will benefit Aucklanders and allow service improvements and an increase in frequency, capacity and reliability.

“We understand that the work has caused some disruptions, but the end result will be a much improved rail service for West Auckland. The continued support and understanding of Western Line passengers is greatly appreciated,” Ms Trout said.

The Stage 2 Double Tracking works are part of a wider rail network upgrade programme, key to the continued development of the Auckland rail network. Other improvements include an expanded fleet of refurbished trains, station upgrades and improved passenger information.

Western Line train passengers planning to travel this Saturday can get more information from MAXX on (09) 366 6400 or visit www.maxx.co.nz or look out for posters on trains and at affected stations around the rail network.

For further information contact: Sharon Hunter, Communications Manager, Auckland Regional Transport Authority, Tel: (09) 379 4422 (x9074); Mobile; 021 545 230

ARTA is responsible for the integrated planning, funding and implementation of all modes of public transport throughout the Auckland region.

ARTA is part of the Auckland Regional Council’s family of organisations.

www.arta.govt.nz

ENDS

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