Currently Browsing: freight

Wiri Rail Link Officially Opened

Posted by Jon C in freightMar 11th, 2010 | 8 Comments
The Wiri to Waitemata seaport rail link was officially opened today, with KiwiRail chair Jim Bolger saying that the new rail exchange had the potential to create some fundamental changes to the landscape of Auckland’s transport patterns. “Our strengths in long haul are readily portrayed by activities out on the wider network, as demonstrated by the fact that we move a third of New Zealand’s export goods.  Here we have an effective solution over a short distance that provides a viable proposition for our customers. “Short-haul shuttle services that relieve pressure on congested urban roads...
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How Many More Regional Rail Lines Will Close?(Updated)

Posted by Jon C in KiwiRail, freightMar 5th, 2010 | 8 Comments
The government has confirmed that May’s budget will contain a package of measures to improve KiwiRail’s position, after its latest half-yearly accounts, revealed this week, showed it had fallen short of its target by two-thirds. The budget measures are expected to involve capital investment and mothballing some regional lines. Already, consideration is being given to mothballing northern Wairarapa and Napier to Gisborne rail lines. Long-term, the government is contemplating what business future it wants for KiwiRail, the buy back of which National has always opposed. Today, Labour’s Darren...
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First Freight Train At Wiri In January

Posted by Jon C in freightNov 12th, 2009 | 6 Comments
Construction of the rail exchange at Ports of Auckland’s Wiri Inland Port in South Auckland is a step closer to completion – and the first train will arrive early in the new year. The Wiri Inland Port is strategically located off Wiri Station Road in South Auckland, close to Auckland International Airport, and adjacent to SH1 and SH20. Two of three rail siding tracks that will connect the inland port to the Waitemata seaport are in place and work is well under way on the concrete hardstand. Ports of Auckland Managing Director Jens Madsen said it means exporters and importers will be able to...
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Kiwirail’s $25m Freight Project

Posted by Jon C in freightNov 12th, 2009 | 2 Comments
KiwiRail’s new track maintenance fleet was commissioned this afternoon, part of a $25 million project to improve the efficiency and quality of rail track maintenance. Speaking at the event, KiwiRail Chairman Jim Bolger said that with freight volumes forecast to increase by 75 per cent over the next twenty years, KiwiRail was targeting investment to those lines which carry the heaviest freight volumes. “Our aim is build capacity and reliability to meet customer demand.” Transport Minister Steven Joyce ‘turned the key’ on the ballast cleaner machine at a ceremony in KiwiRail’s freight...
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