267 days ago

Poll: Should The Southerner passenger rail service be reinstated?

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

The Southerner passenger train will be resurrected if The Opportunities Party (TOP) wins a seat at the general election, its leader says.

TOP’s transport policy, released on Wednesday, pledges support for a five year trial of The Southerner, the passenger rail service between Christchurch and Invercargill which ended in 2002.

TOP leader and Ilam candidate Raf Manji said the trial would operate between Christchurch and Dunedin, stopping in towns like Timaru and Ashburton along the way.

Depending on demand, it could operate five to seven days a week and do two or three return journeys a day. TOP has estimated the cost at $100 million, based on the costings of the Hamilton to Auckland train service, Te Huia.

What do you think? Should the service be reinstated? Read reporter Sinead Gill's full story here (subscription required) and let us know what you think in the comments below.

Should The Southerner passenger rail service be reinstated?
  • 85.9% Yes
    85.9% Complete
  • 10.7% No
    10.7% Complete
  • 3.4% I'm not sure/something else (tell us in the comments)
    3.4% Complete
609 votes
More messages from your neighbours
21 hours ago

Where do you find the best bargains in Canterbury?

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

The first South Island edition of the Reduced to Clear outlet store opened in Christchurch’s South City mall this month. It sells end-of-the-line products, cancelled exports or short-dated items - similar to other discount grocers in the city such as Save More and BargainMe.

We're keen to hear from you - where do you find the best bargains in Canterbury? Who has the cheapest veges, the best deals on spices and nuts, the lowest price for petrol etc? What are your tips for dealing with cost of living increases? Comment below or email reporters@press.co.nz

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1 day ago

Got a great recipe for grapefruit? Share it and win a copy of our magazine!

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Hello neighbours, we're looking for delicious grapefruit recipes to feature in NZ Gardener's July issue. Send your family's favourite ways to use this citrus fruit to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz by Junel 30, 2024. Every published recipe wins a copy of the July issue of NZ Gardener.

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2 days ago

Stand together in tough times

Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support

There's strength in community, especially when times are hard. Victim Support is here to ensure that nobody faces the aftermath of crime, suicide or traumatic events alone. But we need you! Bring your unique life experiences to the table and join us in meaningful work that changes lives.

By volunteering with us, you can make a real difference, helping victims stay informed, safe, and empowered. Volunteer today and do good in the dark times.

With heartfelt thanks,
The Victim Support Team
Find out more

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