Media release: 15 November 2012
Auckland’s rail network will be closed this weekend to allow major works associated with the on-going station improvements and electrification of the rail network.
There will be replacement rail bus services provided during the closure and special timetables will be in place for them. All valid tickets and passes currently accepted on trains will be accepted on rail bus replacements.
For full details go to www.at.co.nz. Details are also available at stations.
Saturday 17 and 18 November – rail bus replacements
Please be aware that there may be minor delays to services next week to allow for the weekend works to settle in.
Works taking place in the weekend include general track maintenance, and preparatory works ahead of electric trains. This includes installing overhead wires, masts and portals, potholing, foundation and geotech works at various points along the rail network.
Work on the Eastern Line starts with signalling work at Britomart then further along near the Parnell Baths, foundation works at the Point Resolution footbridge will be carried out. The footbridge which links Tamaki Drive to the Parnell Baths was recently closed by Auckland Council for safety reasons.
The Penrose footbridge is being prepared for the installation of bridge screens. The screens are for public safety, used to stop anyone touching the electric wires. Along the southern line there will be testing and commissioning of signalling equipment and other track works.
The major improvement programme at Papakura Station is progressing well. Platform two will temporarily close to allow for it to be extended and new furniture installed. The old ticket office has been refurbished and will reopen on Monday 19 November. Passengers will need to check passenger information displays and listen for announcements for train platform departures details as departing trains will not necessarily leave from the same platform each time.
Given the significant amount of work to be done, closures on Auckland's rail network will be a regular occurrence for the foreseeable future. Works are generally scheduled to minimise disruption to peak-hour commuter services and carried out at weekends, public holidays and evenings when there are usually fewer people travelling.
Auckland Transport understands replacing trains with buses causes some disruption and works hard to minimise the impacts wherever possible while balancing project safety and efficiency.