Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga
MP for Maungakiekie
26 November 2009
Media Statement

$500m brings better Auckland rail service closer

Maungakiekie MP Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga says Cabinet approval for $500 million to buy electric trains has brought electrification of Auckland’s rail system a step closer.

“Procurement will begin early in the new year, with the first electric trains operational from 2013,” Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga says.

“This is great news. Rail is an increasingly important way for Aucklanders to get to work each day and the region can look forward to a fleet of modern electric trains running on a modern and more reliable rail network.”

The $500 million loan to KiwiRail brings the Government’s investment in developing Auckland’s metro rail system to $1.6 billion, with $600 million for Project DART, $500 million for the infrastructure required to support electrification, and $500 million for the electric trains.

Project Dart (Developing Auckland's Rail Transport) is a package of below rail projects that together will increase the capacity, reliability and reach of the network. Key projects within DART include double tracking of the western line, station and line improvements at New Lynn, a new passenger line to Manukau City, opening of the Onehunga line and improved signalling to allow for increased rail traffic.

“The upgrading and electrification of the Auckland rail network will result in more frequent trains at peak times and help meet future passenger demand,” Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga says.

ENDS

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