North Island Rail Connection
Description
Lower North Island Integrated Mobility (LNIRIM) will deliver 18 new low-emission hybrid trains and infrastructure improvements to ensure service continuity on the Wairarapa and Manawatū Lines. It will allow a significant increase in service frequency to provide a reliable, convenient, affordable, and safe passenger transport option for the forecast population.
The trains need to be highly customised to suit our network - these unique requirements require time to design, manufacture and be thoroughly tested. We will then build up the fleet to support increased timetabled frequencies across both lines which is anticipated for 2029.
Partnerships
Metlink is working with Horizons Regional Council and KiwiRail on this project.
Updates
Procurement process is underway.
Benefits
Greater regional connectivity, improved rail service quality and a more resilient public transport network. By alleviating speed restrictions, using longer trains, and adapting to future growth, the project is set to substantially increase capacity. Commuters can anticipate improvements in punctuality, reliability, and improved amenities for commuters.
Customer Impact
The WMUP: Regional Infrastructure Upgrade Project will address most of the infrastructure work.
We anticipate building up the fleet to support increased timetabled frequencies across both the Wairarapa and Manawatū lines for 2029.
More Information
Detailed Business Case
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