Auckland Rail Shutdown: What You Need to Know
Starting today, Auckland’s railway lines will be empty with no trains operating for the next 32 days, part of a total planned 96-day shutdown through January 2026. This unprecedented move is to allow KiwiRail to complete crucial rail rebuild works necessary for the successful opening of the City Rail Link in 2026.
When and Why are Trains Down?
KiwiRail and Auckland Transport have strategically scheduled the rail closures to align with school and public holiday periods to minimize disruption. The shutdown includes various holiday periods in 2025, such as summer holidays, Easter, King’s Birthday, Matariki, Labour weekend, and more. Additional single-line reduced frequency days are also planned for 2025, with back-up closures set aside if needed.
The rail network rebuild is a crucial project aimed at upgrading and repairing Auckland’s railway system to accommodate the increased demand and frequency expected with the opening of the City Rail Link. Without these closures, the network would not be ready in time for the CRL’s launch, jeopardizing the benefits of this significant investment in public transportation.
What Railway Works are Planned?
KiwiRail will be busy replacing track foundations, improving drainage, and upgrading various sections of the network to enhance reliability and capacity. Upgrades to Middlemore station, construction of new stations in Drury and Pareātā, and improvements to track infrastructure, power supplies, and signal systems are among the many tasks on the agenda. The goal is to increase train frequency and speed, providing commuters with a more efficient and reliable public transport system.
Public Transport Alternatives
During the rail shutdown, Auckland Transport will be deploying rail replacement buses every 20 minutes and increasing services on other frequent routes to accommodate passengers. Express rail replacement buses will also be introduced in early January to support the return to work after the holiday season. The AT operations center will closely monitor traffic flow and adjust plans as needed throughout the closure period.
With careful planning and coordination, Auckland Transport is confident in its ability to manage the disruptions and ensure that commuters can still move around the city efficiently during this challenging period. Stay informed with Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter for the latest updates on the Auckland rail shutdown.