Joint Media Release

ARTA/ONTRACK

28 November 2007

Changes to train services this weekend as Newmarket upgrade continues

As the Newmarket redevelopment continues, the Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) advises that a bus replacement service will be operating for all Southern Line stations between Otahuhu and Britomart this weekend.

Additional Eastern Line trains will operate between Papakura and Britomart (via Sylvia Park and Glen Innes) throughout the weekend.

The Newmarket redevelopment is a joint project between ONTRACK, ARTA and Auckland City Council. Because Newmarket is one of the busiest sections of Auckland's rail corridor, ONTRACK needs to take full advantage of the weekend to carry out major track works as part of the station redevelopment and in preparation for electrification of Auckland's rail network.

Because regular journey times may vary this weekend and some of the RAIL BUS stops are a few minutes’ walk from the train station, passengers are advised to check timetables and allow more time for their journey.

ARTA's General Manager, Customer Services, Mark Lambert says, "We understand that the bus replacements may cause disruptions to passengers, but the work is an important component of redeveloping Newmarket station and of the overall upgrade across the Auckland rail network. The support and understanding of passengers is greatly appreciated."

Western Line passengers are advised that the usual Saturday bus replacements between Henderson and Waitakere will also be in place on Saturday 1 December.

Where buses replace trains, normal train fares will apply for the entire journey. Passengers should look out for the RAIL BUS sign at affected stations.

Passengers can get more information about the bus replacements and about train timetables from MAXX on (09) 366 6400 or at www.maxx.co.nz

For more information about the Newmarket upgrade and other Auckland rail network developments, please visit www.projectDART.org.nz or email Newmarketinfo@arta.co.nz

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