23 February 2011

The rail network in Canterbury has been largely cleared for the resumption of rail operations.

Repairs on the Main North Line between Rangiora and Christchurch are expected to be completed this evening and trains will begin moving south from Picton early tomorrow.

The rail line between Dunedin and Christchurch has been reopened, with some speed restrictions. The first rail service into Christchurch from the south is expected tonight.

The line between the West Coast and Christchurch is open and general freight services are expected to start tomorrow.

The line to Lyttelton Port is closed due to bridge damage at Heathcote. We will have an update on the repair schedule for this line as soon as possible.

TransAlpine and TranzCoastal services are cancelled until the 28th of February and planned to resume the 1st of March. Accommodation and transport have been arranged for all passengers who remained in Greymouth and Picton last night. Refunds or the ability to reschedule have been offered to all passengers affected by these cancellations.

KiwiRail chief executive Jim Quinn said that staff in Christchurch worked hard to get the network running again as quickly as possible.

“Our staff response has been overwhelming and they have worked above and beyond expectation. Despite their own personal difficulties they have made a vital contribution to getting the city up and running again as quickly as possible, like many others across the region. We can’t thank them enough.”

ENDS

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