ARTA Media Release

22 December 2008

ARTA reminds passengers to check MAXX

Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) reminds rail passengers that from Boxing Day, a significantly revised train timetable and a comprehensive programme of rail bus replacements will be in operation until Sunday 18 January 2009. This is to allow for major development to upgrade the rail network being undertaken by ONTRACK.

Already significant work to improve rail services, frequency and facilities has taken place in the Auckland region, and the works planned over the holiday period will contribute even further to these improvements

ARTA's General Manager, Customer Services, Mark Lambert says, "The works have been scheduled for this time with the aim of creating the minimum amount of inconvenience for commuters, as passenger numbers during this period are at their lowest for the year.

"As some of the construction taking place can only be done when there are no trains running, we have scheduled a timetable of rail bus replacements on affected lines. Over 60 buses will be in operation to cover the provision of rail buses however, it should be noted that unfortunately most of these will not be accessible to wheelchairs. It also will not be possible to accommodate mobility scooters or bicycles.

"The construction taking place will cause disruption for travellers during the holidays; however it is absolutely necessary to deliver the continued improvements to Auckland's rail network. We strongly recommend that passengers leave plenty of time to complete their journeys, and consult MAXX before travelling" Mr Lambert said.

On completion of the work, there will be temporary stations in place at Avondale and Boston Rd to allow for the construction of the new stations that will offer passengers vastly enhanced facilities.

The MAXX contact centre will be open throughout the holiday period, including on Christmas Day: Passengers can call MAXX on (09) 366 6400 or visit www.maxx.co.nz .

The Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA), ONTRACK and Veolia wish to thank passengers in advance for their patience at this time

Service Information

Rail buses will replace scheduled train services as follows:

Friday 26 December 2008 to Sunday 4 January 2009

WESTERN LINE: Britomart to Waitakere Sunday services to run from, and terminate at New Lynn There are no bus replacement services to Helensville throughout this period

SOUTHERN LINE: Britomart to Otahuhu (via Newmarket South) EASTERN LINE: Britomart to Panmure

Monday 5 to Sunday 18 January 2009

WESTERN LINE: Britomart to Helensville Sunday services to run from, and terminate at New Lynn

SOUTHERN LINE: Britomart to Otahuhu (via Newmarket South)

Passengers are also reminded that there are no rail (or rail bus replacement) services provided on Christmas Day.

To cater for the Big Day Out at Mt Smart on Friday 16 January 2009, a rail service will be provided between Penrose Station and Britomart (via Newmarket South) throughout the day.

For more information about public transport services over the Christmas period, and the location of rail bus stops, call MAXX on (09) 366 6400 or visit www.maxx.co.nz

ENDS

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