Auckland’s rail network has entered a new era with the opening of the City Rail Link, introducing three new stations, redesigned routes and a new timetable from September 13.
Prime minister Christopher Luxon, Auckland mayor Wayne Brown, ministers, councillors and mana whenua formally opened the link on September 11, marking the completion of New Zealand’s largest infrastructure project.
The underground railway allows trains to travel through central Auckland instead of terminating there, connecting the existing lines to create a more integrated network.
Transport minister Chris Bishop says the project will deliver faster journeys, more frequent services and significantly greater capacity.
“CRL is New Zealand’s biggest, and perhaps most challenging, transport project completed to date,” Bishop says.
“For the first time, trains will run right through the middle of Auckland rather than reaching the city centre and stopping.”
The new East West and South City line services connect through the CRL stations, giving passengers direct access to more destinations across Auckland.
Bishop says the infrastructure will also support new housing and businesses around stations while improving access to employment and essential services.
The project forms part of a wider transformation of Auckland’s rapid transit network, including new stations in Drury, rail electrification to Pukekohe, the Rail Network Rebuild and further investment in busways.
Auckland Transport chief executive Stacey van der Putten says the organisation is helping passengers understand the redesigned network.
“Our focus now is on helping customers confidently navigate the new network and delivering the safe, reliable service Aucklanders expect,” she says.
“We encourage people to familiarise themselves with the new rail network and how it connects with the wider public transport system before travelling.”
The launch followed extensive testing of trains, tunnels, stations and operating systems, along with preparations for frontline staff.
KiwiRail also completed supporting work across the wider network, including foundation renewals, drainage improvements, 19km of electrification and a 6.5km third line separating freight and passenger services through its busiest section.
City Rail Link Ltd chief executive Pat Brockie says thousands of people contributed to the project over more than a decade.
“What Aucklanders will experience is the result of years of engineering, construction, testing and collaboration,” Brockie says.
Auckland One Rail and KiwiRail have deployed additional resources during the opening period to monitor services and track infrastructure and respond quickly to any problems.
Extra staff are also stationed around the network to help passengers navigate the stations, understand the routes and adjust to the timetable.
Brown says the project will provide Aucklanders with more convenient and accessible public transport.
“The City Rail Link is a transformational investment for Auckland,” he says.
“It’s a game changer for our city that will benefit generations to come.”
