Passenger rail is coming!
The NZ Transport Agency Board has approved a business case for the next steps in a start-up trial Hamilton to Auckland passenger rail service, to begin March 2020.
“We know more and more people are commuting between Hamilton and Auckland, and introducing this trial service will give them a choice in how they do that,” Minister Phil Twyford said.
The business case allows for the fit-out of rolling stock and the detailed design of infrastructure. The total cost of the five year trial, including the service operated by KiwiRail, is estimated at $78.2 million, including $68.4 million from the NZ Transport Agency and $9.8 million from local authorities.
It would stop in Hamilton at Frankton and The Base in Rotokauri before going onto Huntly and finally stopping in Papakura in Auckland, where passengers can change onto the Auckland Public Transport Network. Future stops may include, Te Kauwhata, Pokeno and Tuakau.
A new station including a platform and Park & Ride parking area will be created as part of the Rotokauri rail stop and the Huntly platform will need to be upgraded.
Well done all those who worked hard to make this happen.
Stand-Out Festive Decor: Build a Big DIY Nutcracker
Whip up a larger-than-life nutcracker and have it standing guard to greet guests this Christmas. This is an ideal opportunity to repurpose last year’s baubles, leftover Resene paint testpots and leftover materials from previous projects. You could use an old cardboard box for the body and cover it in fabric scraps. Find out how to make your own nutcracker with these easy step by step instructions.
Vandalism is costing ratepayers - what can be done to better protect our public spaces?
Vandals have repeatedly damaged public amenities across the Waikato District, leaving ratepayers to pick up the bill. So far in 2025, the cost has climbed to nearly $123,000, reports the Waikato Times.
The council is urging residents to report vandalism as soon as possible.
If you witness vandalism in progress, please contact the police immediately.
We want to know: Do you have ideas on how we can better protect our public spaces?
Get painting and wallpapering - Sale now on at Resene ColorShops!
For a limited time only save the GST value on Resene premium paints, wood stains, wallpaper and decorating accessories at Resene ColorShops.
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