Auckland will temporarily suspend all passenger train services from April 12-27 as KiwiRail accelerates major infrastructure upgrades ahead of the City Rail Link project, which is due to open next year. The extensive period of works includes underground infrastructure improvements and track upgrades that are vital to Auckland’s future rail capacity.
Targeting Minimum Disruption with Strategic Timing
The major 16-day closure is being timed to coincide with the Easter and Anzac Day holidays to minimise the impact on daily commuters. This strategic timing allows construction crews to complete critical projects without disrupting rush hour journeys. KiwiRail says this period provides an ideal time for large-scale works and the City Rail Link project needs to be completed. Limited freight train operations will continue during the temporary closure.
Infrastructure Improvements Investing in the Future
David Gordon, head of capital planning at KiwiRail, said the school holidays provided a suitable time for large-scale works and that the City Rail Link needed to be fully prepared. He also noted that crews had recently successfully completed the electrification of a 19km section between Papakura and Pukekohe. This electrification work, together with previous track improvements, clearly demonstrates the benefits of extended work windows. These upgrades are seen as critical steps to ensuring Auckland’s rail network can meet future passenger demand and provide a more efficient transport system.
Alternative Transportation Options Are Offered to Passengers
To minimise inconvenience to passengers in Auckland during this mandatory stop, Auckland Transport will be providing a comprehensive rail bus replacement service. These buses will stop at all train stations and will include express routes, particularly on the busy southern line. Auckland Transport Director Stacey van der Putten thanked passengers for their patience and advised passengers to plan their travel in advance, particularly due to changes to the western line and fewer express services compared to the summer months.
Van der Putten also highlighted the positive outcomes from previous similar closures. He said that thanks to the electrification project completed in the summer, peak hour trains can now run as far as Pukekohe every 10 minutes, doubling previous capacity and significantly improving efficiency. While the temporary suspension may be inconvenient for some passengers, authorities say it is an important step in preparing Auckland’s rail system for future growth and modern transport needs. The investment aims to provide long-term improvements to Auckland’s Underground, providing passengers with a more comfortable and efficient way to travel.
