KiwiRail is ramping up freight services on the West Coast and in New Plymouth, marking significant milestones for the country’s rail network.
The Tawhai Tunnel near Reefton is set to reopen on January 12 and will allow coal trains to resume after an eight-month hiatus, while log trains are now back on track between Whanganui and New Plymouth.
Freight services on the West Coast will resume daily operations between Ngakawau and the Tawhai Tunnel, with the tunnel reopening following extensive repairs.
The 134-year-old structure underwent 50,000 hours of work, including the installation of 374 metres of modern concrete lining, 886 rock bolts, and upgraded drainage systems to improve its resilience.
“There are 30 public level crossings and numerous private level crossings between Ngakawau and the Tawhai tunnel, and it has been almost eight months since freight services have run in the area,” KiwiRail South Island regional infrastructure manager Gary Ikin says.
“We urge everyone in the Buller community to be extra vigilant and cautious any time they approach a rail level crossing. Always obey signage and always take a good long look in both directions before crossing the tracks.”
Log trains
Meanwhile, log trains resumed operations from January 6, running daily between Whanganui and New Plymouth. The service, operated in partnership with Forest360, removes 80 truck trips weekly from roads and cuts emissions significantly.
KiwiRail freight and rolling stock operations executive general manager Paul Ashton welcomed the return of regular services.
“Rail is an excellent way to get primary product, such as logs, to export and we’ve been working closely with Forest360 to make it happen.
“It’s also low emissions, given rail has 70% fewer emissions per tonne carried, compared to heavy road freight.
“But more trains running also means that people should be cautious whenever they approach the tracks.
“This is especially important on the urban line to Port Taranaki, which has a number of pedestrian level crossings connecting to the popular Coastal Walkway.
“It’s been about 18 months since regular services have used the line and people need to be vigilant. They should expect trains at any time, obey signage and always take a good look both ways before crossing the tracks,” Ashton says.
At Port Taranaki, logs will be shunted from KiwiRail’s depot for export. Port commercial general manager Ross Dingle called the service a win for efficiency and sustainability.
“We’re very pleased to have this service up and running as it improves efficiency for exporters, helps alleviate congestion and the impact on the roads, and helps reduce carbon emissions,” he says.
