The Future is Rail has welcomed today’s decision by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi to extend the Te Huia trial for a further 12 months at the 60 per cent funding assistance rate.

Spokesperson Lindsey Horne said the decision reflects strong support for the Waikato–Auckland passenger rail service from central government, local councils and the wider community.

“This is fantastic news for passengers and for the Golden Triangle,” said Ms Horne.

“The extension recognises that Te Huia has become an important part of the transport network and deserves the opportunity to continue connecting Auckland, our largest city with Hamilton, our fastest growing city. It makes clear sense to support this service given that it’s meeting its patronage targets and will only further thrive with the City Rail Link set to open later this year.”

Waikato Regional Council had sought the extension to allow patronage to recover following disruption from COVID-19 and major Auckland rail works, and to test the benefits of improved access into central Auckland once the City Rail Link is operational.

The Future is Rail says today’s decision is also a clear signal of confidence in the service’s long-term potential.

“We’ve seen strong support from Waikato Regional Council, Hamilton City council, Waipā and Waikato district councils, as well as cross-party backing from local MPs and growing public enthusiasm,” said Ms Horne.

“This extension shows that Te Huia is not just a trial, it’s becoming a foundation for something bigger.”

Over the past year, community support for the service has continued to grow, with hundreds of people attending public events in support of Te Huia and its future expansion.

The group says the focus now shifts from continuation to growth.

“The next step is to build on this momentum,” said Ms Horne.

“That means continuing to improve frequency over time, ensuring Te Huia connects seamlessly into Auckland’s network, and progressing plans to add additional stops in growing communities such as Te Kauwhata, Pōkeno and Tuakau.”

The group also reiterated its call to extend passenger rail beyond Waikato to Tauranga, establishing a connected Golden Triangle rail service between Auckland, Waikato and the Bay of Plenty.

“With more than half of New Zealand’s population living within the Golden Triangle, rail connectivity between our fastest-growing centres makes economic and environmental sense,” said Ms Horne.

“Today’s decision gives the region the certainty it needs to keep moving forward.”

The Future is Rail said it looks forward to working constructively with councils, government and partners over the coming year to ensure Te Huia continues to evolve into a modern, frequent and connected regional rail service.

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