Auckland rail network upgrade continues

29 March 2006

Auckland rail network upgrade continues out West

Buses will replace trains on Saturdays in April between Henderson and Waitakere and over Easter between New Lynn and Waitakere as construction work to build a second train track starts intensifying next month.

ARTA General Manager Infrastructure and Rail, Elena Trout says, "Construction works will intensify from April as work to introduce a second train track along the Western line continues. The additional track will allow improvements to frequency, capacity and reliability of train services.

"Supporting the region's continued drive to increase Aucklanders use of public transport ARTA is working closely with track owners ONTRACK and train operator Veolia Transport to carefully plan construction activities to minimise the effects of the works on passengers - especially peak time commuters and those planning to travel by train to the Super 14 rugby at Eden Park and Placemakers V8 Supercars at Pukekohe."

Part of a wider rail network up-grade programme, Ms Trout says the Stage 2 Double Tracking works are key to the continued development of the MAXX Auckland rail network and improvement to train services.

"Other activities to improve train passenger's experience and make it easier to get around town, are the on-going upgrade of passenger facilities at stations, introduction of more trains and integration of transport modes through developments such as the Henderson transport interchange due to open later this year.

On Saturdays throughout April, trains will be replaced by buses between Henderson and Waitakere and over Easter weekend between New Lynn and Waitakere. Staff will be on hand to help passengers with the transfer from trains to the rail bus replacement. As regular journey times may vary, passengers are advised to allow more time for their journey," explains Ms Trout.

Western Line train passengers planning to travel on these dates in April 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.

ENDS

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