Auckland’s rail service faces further delays as KiwiRail announces a two-month extension to the reopening of the critical Papakura to Pukekohe section.
Closed since September 2022 for a significant $419 million electrification project, the expected completion has now shifted from the end of this year to mid-January 2025.
A KiwiRail spokesperson told State media RNZ the decision, timed to coincide with the Christmas network-wide closure, is aimed at ensuring the comprehensive upgrade and renewal of the railway line are ‘completed efficiently.’ The long-term benefits of the delay included more reliable and frequent services.
Despite the postponement electrification efforts are on schedule, with track and foundation rebuilding set to commence in May.
Local officials, including Franklin Councillor and AT board director Andy Baker supported the ‘proactive’ approach to minimise future disruptions. In the meantime, bus services will continue to replace the train route between Pukekohe and Papakura stations.
Image credit: S. Tsuchiya
