Media statement | 22 September 2005

Funding approved for Western Rail Line duplication from New Lynn to Henderson

The Land Transport New Zealand Board has approved funding for the second stage of the Western Rail Line duplication project in Auckland.

The Land Transport NZ Board has today approved $34.8 million from Crown funding towards the $58 million project.

This funding will allow duplication of the rail line from New Lynn to Henderson. When complete, in the first quarter of 2007, this will allow four trains an hour to run all the way from Britomart to Henderson at peak times.

Board chair Dr Jan Wright says it is a key part of the programme to increase capacity for the Auckland passenger rail network.

"This investment will benefit the people of West Auckland by enabling more frequent rail services, giving them more transport alternatives."

Land Transport NZ has already approved funding for project design, and for the procurement of long lead time items.

For more information:

Peter Kippenberger
Partnership Manager, Northern
Land Transport New Zealand
Ph: 09 969 9812 or 021 913 882

Janice Rodenburg
Acting Media Manager
Land Transport New Zealand
Ph: 04 931 8822 or 021 705 301