Overlander service back up and running from 13 Jul

MEDIA RELEASE
06 July 2006

For immediate release

Overlander service back up and running from 13 July

ONTRACK and the RMTU have confirmed today a new agreement for rail maintenance staff.

As a result Tranz Scenic, operator of the Overlander service between Wellington and Auckland, announced this afternoon that as of Thursday 13 July the Overlander would return to normal daily operation.

National Passenger Manager Ross Hayward says Tranz Scenic has not operated the Overlander during the industrial action in an effort to minimise the impact on passengers of delays and disruption to travel plans.

“We have been in contact with all passengers booked to travel on the Overlander over the next 7 days and have either transferred their travel dates or provided a full refund.”

“At this late stage our customers have rearranged their travel plans and re-booked travel on alternative services”

Mr Hayward added that when the Overlander starts operating again next week there will be a new campaign launched offering a special price to those travelling from Thursday onwards.

“We are launching a new special fare of only $99 to travel the full journey between Auckland and Wellington. This will give both locals and tourists the opportunity of experiencing this extraordinary journey. This is the perfect time of the year to be travelling through the middle of the North Island surrounded by snow capped mountains and stunning scenery unseen by road ”

“We are also considering the possibility of extending the popular Overlander Steam Engine Excursions. These trains were affected by the industrial action and we would like those who missed out to have an extra opportunity to take this great trip”

Mr Hayward adds that it is unfortunate the dispute between ONTRACK and the RMTU has affected Overlander customers; however Tranz Scenic is pleased that the service is now able operate again.

ENDS

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