Freight Continues To Move While Main Line Closed

Freight Continues To Move While Main North Railway Line Remains Closed

KiwiRail is continuing to move freight by road between Blenheim and Christchurch while the Main North Line remains closed by a large slip south of Kaikoura.

Given the importance of getting goods to the people of Christchurch, KiwiRail has been working around the clock to load and move freight from its facility at Spring Creek, near Blenheim. This will continue for as long as necessary. At the same time, KiwiRail is looking at other options to supplement its ‘road bridging’ operation.

The freight being moved is general containerized goods, including food bound for supermarket shelves in Christchurch. To date, KiwiRail has transported approximately 60 containers south using up to 40 trucks.

The TranzCoastal passenger service between Picton and Christchurch has been suspended given the difficulties in running a timely coach replacement service with the State Highway also closed by the slip. Passengers are being offered the option of travel on an alternative date, or a refund on their fare. Passengers wishing to check the status of the TranzCoastal should call 0800 872468. The number is staffed 7am to 7pm both weekdays and weekends.

The TranzAlpine, which runs daily between Christchurch and Greymouth, is unaffected.

KiwiRail is working closely with the New Zealand Transport Agency and Environment Canterbury to clear the slip and re-open the railway line. At this stage it is not known when the line will re-open but it is not expected to be until later in the week.

ENDS

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