3 May 2006

Auckland rail network upgrade moves forward out West

Buses will replace trains on Saturdays in May between Henderson and Waitakere as construction work to build a second train track continues.

ARTA General Manager Infrastructure and Rail, Elena Trout says, “As construction work to introduce a second track out West continues, all Saturday train services between Henderson and Waitakere station will be replaced by buses this May, with a special timetable in place for the Super 14 Blues vs Chiefs rugby game at Eden Park on 13 May.

Train staff will be on hand to help passengers with the transfer from trains to the rail bus replacements. As regular journey times may vary, passengers are advised to allow more time for their journey,” explains Ms Trout.

“We’d like to thank Western Line passengers for their continued support and understanding. The introduction of the second track will benefit Aucklanders and allow improvements to the frequency, capacity and reliability of train services - making it easier and quicker to get around the region.

ARTA continues to work closely with the track owners ONTRACK and train operator Veolia Transport to ensure construction activities minimise any effects on passenger services.

Part of a wider rail network up-grade programme, Ms Trout says the Stage 2 Double Tracking works are key to the continued development of the Auckland rail network. Other improvements include an expanded fleet of refurbished trains, station upgrades and improved passenger information.

Work on the double tracking project was carried out by ONTRACK staff and contractors around Henderson and Glen Eden during April, particularly over the Easter long weekend.

During Easter the foundations for the second track were built along sections of rail corridor from Sunnyvale station to Henderson station. At the same time around 250 metres of the existing track was replaced.

At the same time further work was also carried out on the Henderson Valley Rd over-bridge, where a new bridge is being built.

At Glen Eden signals control equipment was relocated to allow room for the second track to be built there.

In the month ahead work will continue to be focussed around Henderson from Bruce McLaren Rd to Mt Lebanon Lane, with retaining walls and track foundations being built.

Part of Henderson Valley Rd, near the intersection with Great North Road will be closed on Saturday, 13 May to allow a bridge span to be put in place on the rail over-bridge. A detour will be in place to direct traffic along Railside Ave, Bruce McLaren Rd, Corban Ave and Henderson Valley Rd, and will be clearly signposted.

Western Line train passengers planning to travel on Saturday’s in May can get more information from MAXX on (09) 366 6400 or visit www.MAXX.co.nz or look out for posters on trains and at affected stations around the rail network.

About the train service changes
Changes to Saturday Train Services in May - Western Line Stage 2 Double Tracking
Due to Western Line Double Tracking construction to improve frequency, capacity and reliability of Auckland’s train services, buses will replace trains between Henderson and Waitakere on the following days:
Saturday 6 May 2006
Saturday 13 May 2006*
Saturday 20 May 2006
Saturday 27 May 2006
*Please note that services for special services for Super 14 rugby at Eden Park (13 May) will be communicated separately.

Where buses replace trains, your normal fare will apply for the entire journey. Staff will be present at stations to help passengers transfer between bus and train. Look for the RAIL BUS at transfer locations.

More information

About train, bus and ferry services:

Call MAXX on (09) 366 6400 or visit www.maxx.co.nz

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