ARTA Media Release

11 July 2008

New train timetables, more frequent services and new Helensville service

The Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) and its train operator Veolia Transport would like to remind Auckland rail commuters that new passenger rail timetables will be in place from Sunday 13 July 2008.

Auckland Regional Transport Authority General Manager, Customer Services, Mark Lambert says, “Once the new timetables come into effect the times of most trains will change slightly, so we advise our customers to check the new timetables or contact MAXX before travelling.

“From Sunday, the frequency of many services will increase, particularly on the Western Line, where seating capacity for weekday services will increase by approximately 18%. On the Southern Line, Pukekohe residents and those travelling to Middlemore Hospital will benefit from a significant increase in morning and evening peak services. Rail patronage continues to trend strongly upwards in Auckland, and these additional train services are a direct response to customer demand for rail travel.”

On Monday 14 July, scheduled passenger rail will also return to Helensville, after a twenty-eight year absence (the last service ran in 1980) with the introduction of a one-year trial service.

The service will be officially launched by Auckland Regional Council Chairman, Michael Lee, on Monday morning.

Mr Lee says, “Helensville services will bring back into operation a rail corridor that has not been used for passengers for nearly 30 years. Our objective is not only to expand rail services but extend them for the benefit of as many Aucklanders as possible”.

Mr Lambert says, “With the new timetables there will now be more trains running, at different times so Aucklanders should take extra care at stations, level and pedestrian crossings, and areas near the rail corridor. We remind people to pay heed to the warning bells and signs – don’t cross until you’re sure it is safe to do so”.

For more information about the new rail timetable or about train services in Auckland call MAXX on (09) 366 6400 or visit www.maxx.co.nz

The new timetables were developed by Veolia Transport Auckland Ltd under guidance from ARTA.

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