Electric Trains Return to Pukekohe with Faster and More Efficient Service

Electric trains have returned to Pukekohe, offering faster, cleaner, and more efficient journeys to central Auckland. This upgrade eliminates transfers, significantly improving travel time for local commuters. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Upgraded Train Service Enhances Pukekohe’s Public Transport Network

Starting Monday, 3 February 2025, electric trains will run every 20 minutes until 7 PM. After 7 PM, they will operate at 30-minute intervals, ensuring continued accessibility for passengers.

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With this improvement, Pukekohe commuters can reach Auckland’s city center in 75 minutes without changing trains. Previously, they had to transfer in Papakura, adding an unnecessary 25 minutes to the journey.

Franklin Ward Councillor Andy Baker rode the first electric train on Sunday, calling it a long-overdue upgrade. He emphasized how this project represents a significant milestone for local transportation.

KiwiRail temporarily closed Pukekohe Station in August 2022 to electrify the line and install supporting infrastructure. Before this, diesel-powered trains connected Pukekohe and Papakura, causing delays and inefficiencies.

New Infrastructure Supports Pukekohe’s Growing Population

Now, passengers can enjoy a single, uninterrupted train ride directly into Auckland’s city center. “This service is 25 minutes faster than the previous bus-to-train option,” Baker stated.

Baker, who also chairs Auckland’s Transport Committee, thanked KiwiRail for enhancing local connectivity. He acknowledged their work in ensuring that Pukekohe’s rapid expansion aligns with modern transport solutions.

Transport Minister Chris Bishop joined the inaugural electric train journey, describing it as a historic moment. “This marks the completion of electrification between Papakura and Pukekohe, improving rail reliability,” he noted.

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Commuters previously relied on an unreliable 40-minute bus between Pukekohe and Papakura, adding unnecessary delays. Bishop emphasized that modern electric trains now provide a quieter, more efficient commuting experience.

To support this upgrade, engineers installed 800 steel masts and 130 kilometers of overhead electric wiring. KiwiRail also completed essential track maintenance to prepare for increased service frequency.

This electrification project is part of Auckland’s broader transportation strategy, linking with the City Rail Link. The City Rail Link, opening in 2026, will further enhance rail capacity and efficiency across the region.

David Gordon, KiwiRail’s Chief Asset Development Officer, highlighted that this investment supports Auckland’s rapid growth. Over the next 30 years, an estimated 120,000 additional residents will move into the region.

“To accommodate this demand, we’re constructing three new stations between Papakura and Pukekohe,” Gordon explained. “These improvements will ensure better access to reliable and sustainable public transport options.”

Pukekohe Station itself has undergone a major upgrade, improving efficiency and passenger experience. Alongside this, the bus interchange, redeveloped in 2018, further strengthens local transport connections.

Gordon reminded passengers to stay cautious around railway tracks due to increased train frequency. “People must obey safety signs and check both directions before crossing,” he advised.

Auckland Transport Chief Executive Dean Kimpton described this project as a major breakthrough for Pukekohe. “With buses now linking directly to Pukekohe Station, commuting has become easier and more accessible,” he added.

Fare system adjustments also make public transport more affordable. Regular commuters using a HOP Card will pay a maximum of $50 per week for trains, buses, and ferries.

Additionally, Auckland Transport simplified fare zones, reducing costs for longer trips. Single-trip fares now cap at $7.65 across four zones, regardless of distance or transfers.

Kimpton acknowledged the community’s patience throughout the upgrade process, promising more improvements ahead. “We are delivering a world-class rail system, and the best is yet to come,” he concluded.

Source: pmn.co.nz

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