Media statement | 11 February 2005

Funding approved for study of Auckland passenger rail power options

Land Transport New Zealand has agreed to contribute over $760,000 to fund an evaluation of different power modes for Auckland passenger rail services.

The Electric Traction Evaluation Study is being undertaken by the Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA), with a total cost of $1.015 million.

Current passenger rail services in Auckland are operated by diesel multiple units and diesel locomotive hauled carriage trains. The procurement process for additional rolling stock will need to begin this year to meet expected passenger growth.

The study will review the recommendation of the Auckland Rail Business Plan that the preferred option for Auckland Rail is electrification and provide an appraisal of the traction power options available, including various types of electric traction systems and diesel.

Land Transport NZ Board Chair Dr Jan Wright says the study is a significant step in the investigation of the Auckland Rail Project, and its findings will help shape the upgrade of passenger rail in the region.

For more information:

Dave Macdonald
Northern Regional Manager,
Ph: 09 916 4268 or 027 473 6824

Andy Knackstedt
Media Manager
Land Transport New Zealand Land Transport New Zealand
Ph: 04 931 8822 or 0212 763 222