The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) has announced the formation of a New Zealand Group of the Association.
Establishment of the group was approved at the November 2002 meeting of the ARA’s Executive Committee.
The rail industry in New Zealand has developed away from its former single-entity model to a diversified industry having
multiple stakeholders representing all sectors of the industry. These stakeholders believe that a body representing the
whole rail industry is now needed.
“The success of the ARA in Australia in championing the railway cause, and raising the level of debate on rail issues,
including countering uninformed criticism of rail, can be repeated in New Zealand,” said ARA executive director, Mr
Kirk.
Mr Kirk added, “There are many current issues affecting rail in New Zealand where a unified voice for the industry will
be valuable for industry participants and policymakers. These include government policy on transport, its Transport
Strategy, the level playing field between rail and road and changes in safety legislation.”
The Australian rail industry has benefited significantly by having the ARA put its case to governments and the community
and the New Zealand rail industry should similarly benefit from having a members’ group champion the cause of rail.
“Membership of the Group will be open to all professional organisations with an interest in the rail industry in New
Zealand, via membership of the ARA,” said Mr Kirk.
Wellington based ARA executive committee member, Dr Murray King, will chair the Group.
“This is an exciting opportunity for the rail industry in New Zealand and one that the industry should use to full
advantage,” said Mr Kirk.
The NZ Group of the ARA will be launched at a special function in Wellington on Monday 16 December, 2002.
Details for Australian-based companies interested in attending this function and joining the NZ Group are available from
the ARA Secretariat on 03 9614 5162.
Details for New Zealand-based companies interested in attending this function and joining the Group are available from
Dr King on 04 473 3364.