An $800 million investment in upgrading the lower North Island’s commuter rail system will reduce the travel time between Wellington and Masterton by 15 minutes.

The current train fleet on the Wairarapa and Manawatū lines is old and needs replacing, according to the government. The Wairarapa line, in particular, has had many issues, including slow train speeds, bus replacements, and vibrations causing discomfort in carriages.

Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced that new trains would be purchased and existing infrastructure would be improved to offer better services for passengers in the lower North Island.

“Improving commuter travel will boost productivity, support economic growth, and help Kiwis reach their destinations quickly and safely,” Brown said.

The upgrade will increase train speeds on the Wairarapa line from 90km/h to 110km/h, reduce the number of temporary speed restrictions, and provide more frequent services.

Brown emphasized that the government would ensure value for money in procuring new trains, focusing on practical benefits for commuters. “We are reviewing the Metropolitan Rail Operating Model (MROM) to create a sustainable funding model for metropolitan rail and ensure reliable service for passengers,” he added.

Labour’s transport spokesperson, Tangi Utikere, noted that this investment was first announced a year ago under the previous Labour government.

Hybrid Trains

The funding will be used to buy 18 new four-car train units. Last year, the Labour government had announced plans to buy tri-mode hybrid trains for the Wairarapa and Manawatū lines as part of the Lower North Island Rail Integrated Mobility (LNIRIM) project.

On Thursday, Brown stated that all engine types would be considered in the procurement process, which begins on Monday. He acknowledged that the regional council prefers hybrid trains but stressed the importance of value for money in transport infrastructure investments.

The new trains are expected to be del

TIN Bureau