When trains return to Pukekohe Station on 3 February 2025, commuters will be able to catch a Southern Line train to Waitematā Station (Britomart) every 20 minutes from 5.10am until 7pm.
Once extra train drivers and managers have been trained up, daytime frequencies will increase further to one train every 10 minutes from May.
Franklin Ward Councillor Andy Baker says residents are hanging out for the return of services.
“It’s been a long time coming, but at this time of year you turn around and it’s Christmas, and the February return of services will be just around the corner,” he says.
“The reward for all that disruption will be a modern efficient service that runs at a higher speed, no swapping at Papakura and obviously saying ‘goodbye’ to lengthy commutes that tie so many of us up on the motorway.”
Timetables associated with the operation of the Central Rail Loop will be another significant improvement to the city’s public transport network when they come into effect, Baker adds.
Local Board members have also been updated on the three new stations being developed.
At Paerata, early earthworks are underway for the rail bridge retaining wall, with main construction imminent.
At Drury, early earthworks have taken place, including installation of 279 concrete piles. Vegetation clearance has taken place, with construction expected to start before the end of the year.
At Ngakoroa, communications are expected to begin with neighbours in the coming months.
“We have asked that buses complement the restoration of train services and Auckland Transport says they are being timed to meet the new services, often with increased frequency,” says board chair Angela Fulljames.
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