Generation Zero responds to government funding of the City Rail Link
Youth organization Generation Zero, longtime advocates for the City Rail Link, welcome the government getting on board
with the project after years of noncommitment.
“Today’s announcement is a massive step forward for Auckland , ” says Generation Zero spokesperson Leroy Beckett
“We are relieved this will finally end uncertainty over funding for the CRL and allow construction to continue on
schedule”. This confirmation will also bring forward billions of dollars worth of public and private investment in
Auckland’s city centre and beyond.
The City Rail Link will unlock the entire transport system, allowing five minute frequencies on existing rail lines,
opening three new stations, and providing the capacity to extend the rail network to the airport and the North Shore.
The CRL will be the first step of a region-wide Congestion Free Network which would provide Auckland with a world class
transport system.
Beckett ; “The solution to Auckland’s traffic problems is to free up our roading network by offering people choices. The
City Rail Link will offer Aucklanders a reliable public transport option which is why it’s so important that it goes
ahead as soon as possible.”.
However, Generation Zero are disappointed the government is fast tracking an over-the-top solution for the East-West
link, which is a billion dollar subsidy for the trucking industry. The government should instead focus on affordable
local improvements that will actually solve the issue.
“If the government really want to show they’re serious about improving transport in Auckland the next step should be to
fund desperately needed public transport projects like busways to the North, West and East, and extending electric
trains to Pukekohe.”
“We have a complete motorway network already, by wasting money on unnecessary extensions we will only increase
congestion and carbon emissions through encouraging more cars onto the roads”
ENDS