KiwiRail has resumed critical freight services on the West Coast and in New Plymouth, marking major milestones. These improvements enhance rail network efficiency and sustainability across the country. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

KiwiRail has resumed critical freight services on the West Coast and in New Plymouth
KiwiRail crew on the West Coast have been working hard to ensure the Tawhai Tunnel is structurally sound.

Upgrades to KiwiRail’s Infrastructure

Freight services on the West Coast will operate daily between Ngakawau and the Tawhai Tunnel. After eight months of suspension, the Tawhai Tunnel reopens on January 12, enabling coal trains to resume operations.

Don’t miss…The City of Columbia Secures $204 Million for Railroad Separation Project

The 134-year-old tunnel underwent extensive upgrades, including the installation of modern concrete linings, new drainage systems, and 886 rock bolts. These enhancements ensure better resilience and safety for future freight operations.

Gary Ikin, KiwiRail’s South Island infrastructure manager, stressed the importance of vigilance at rail level crossings. He advised the Buller community to always look both ways and obey all safety signage.

KiwiRail’s Partnership for Sustainable Freight

Log trains also resumed daily operations on January 6, connecting Whanganui and New Plymouth. This service, developed with Forest360, eliminates 80 weekly truck trips and significantly reduces emissions.

Paul Ashton, KiwiRail’s freight operations executive, highlighted the environmental benefits of rail transport, which emits 70% less CO₂ per tonne than road freight. He encouraged caution along urban lines, especially near pedestrian crossings.

At Port Taranaki, logs are transferred from KiwiRail’s depot for export. Port commercial manager Ross Dingle praised the efficiency and environmental impact of these new freight operations, which reduce congestion and support exporters.

KiwiRail’s renewed services showcase its commitment to sustainable, safe, and efficient freight solutions for New Zealand.

Source: transporttalk.co.nz

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Don’t miss…CATS Announces Early Suspension of Gold Line Service Due to Weather

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit