Rail transport in New Zealand

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Overview of rail transport in New Zealand

Rail transport in New Zealand is an important part of the country's transport infrastructure. The rail network in New Zealand consists of a variety of lines that serve both freight and passenger services. The network is managed by KiwiRail, a state-owned enterprise.

History

Rail transport in New Zealand began in the 1860s with the construction of the first railway lines. The first public railway was opened in 1863 between Ferrymead and Christchurch. Over the years, the network expanded significantly, connecting major cities and rural areas.

Network

The New Zealand rail network is primarily a narrow-gauge network, with a track gauge of 1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in). The network includes both main lines and branch lines, with the main lines being the North Island Main Trunk and the South Island Main Trunk.

North Island

The North Island Main Trunk (NIMT) is the most significant rail line in the North Island, running from Wellington to Auckland. Other important lines include the East Coast Main Trunk, the North Auckland Line, and the Wairarapa Line.

South Island

The South Island Main Trunk (SIMT) runs from Picton to Invercargill. Other key lines include the Midland Line, the Main North Line, and the Main South Line.

Services

Rail services in New Zealand include both freight and passenger services. KiwiRail operates the majority of freight services, transporting goods such as coal, timber, and dairy products. Passenger services are provided by KiwiRail Scenic Journeys and include iconic trains such as the Northern Explorer, the Coastal Pacific, and the TranzAlpine.

Urban Rail

Urban rail services are available in the major cities of Auckland and Wellington. In Auckland, the network is operated by Auckland Transport and includes lines such as the Southern Line (Auckland), the Western Line (Auckland), and the Eastern Line (Auckland). In Wellington, the network is operated by Metlink (Greater Wellington) and includes the Kapiti Line, the Hutt Valley Line, and the Johnsonville Line.

Future Developments

There are several ongoing and planned developments aimed at improving and expanding the rail network in New Zealand. These include the City Rail Link project in Auckland, which aims to enhance the capacity and efficiency of the urban rail network.

Related Pages

• KiwiRail
• North Island Main Trunk
• South Island Main Trunk
• Northern Explorer
• Coastal Pacific
• TranzAlpine
• Auckland Transport
• Metlink (Greater Wellington)

See Also

• Transport in New Zealand
• History of rail transport in New Zealand
• List of New Zealand railway lines