Auckland finally beats Wellington - Auckland Transport

12 Million Aucklanders are now on board

Aucklanders are using the trains in record numbers – making 12 million passenger trips in the past year.

This milestone comes halfway through the roll-out of Auckland’s new electric trains.

Auckland Transport chairman Dr Lester Levy (pictured at Britomart Transport Centre) says Aucklanders are using public transport more than ever as improvements to services make it a more attractive option.

“The numbers using the trains are impressive. In March we reached 11 million passengers and here we are just seven months later marking 12 million train trips a year.”

When Britomart Transport Centre opened in 2003, just 2.5 million trips were made on trains each year.

“People are responding to initial improvements such as integrated ticketing, better on-time performance and improved facilities like the new transport hubs at Panmure and Manukau. We’re also introducing a new rail timetable in December which will mean improved frequency including half-hourly weekend services across all lines.”

Dr Levy says the numbers will continue to grow as the ageing diesel fleet is phased out. “By the middle of next year we will only be running electric trains on the electrified network which will improve reliability and increase capacity. This will make train travel even more pleasant for Aucklanders.”

Auckland Transport’s Group Manager Public Transport, Mark Lambert, says the growth in passenger numbers is a tribute to the hard work done by staff who are progressively rolling out major transport changes.

Passengers spoken to at Britomart station agree. Brenda Scott from Ellerslie says “The new trains are cleaner but I would like to see more frequent services.” Par Peihopa from Otara comments “The trains are more stylish and comfortable and the service is much better” and Jan Kirchner, who is visiting from Germany, says “The trains are clean and comfortable but a little empty compared to what I’m used to at home.”

And for the first time Auckland has pulled ahead of Wellington for train patronage. In year to September 11.9 million passengers used Wellington’s trains. Wellington’s Manager of Rail Operations, Angus Gabara predicts the capital will reach the 12 million mark by the end of the year.

ENDS

© Scoop Media