December 27th, 2024
Key takeaways
The government has launched a rapid review into KiwiRail following major disruptions for Wellington passenger rail users.
The review will focus on KiwiRail's commitment to reliable commuter services, its engagement with stakeholders during the breakdown, and necessary changes to prevent future incidents.
KiwiRail has accepted full responsibility for the disruption and pledged to cooperate fully with the government review.
The government has invested $8.6 billion in rail infrastructure since 2017 to build a resilient and reliable network, including the recent announcement of 18 new trains for Wairarapa and Kapiti Coast.
The investigation aims to restore public confidence and ensure New Zealanders see the benefits of the government's investment in rail infrastructure.
The New Zealand government is launching a rapid review into KiwiRail following a breakdown of critical equipment that led to major disruptions for Wellington passenger rail users, according to a media release.
The review will examine whether KiwiRail is adequately focused on delivering reliable commuter services, its engagement with stakeholders during the breakdown, and necessary changes to prevent recurrence.
Government perspective: "The disruption of Wellington train services this week is not good enough and follows other similar instances of service disruptions to commuters on KiwiRail’s network," said Michael Wood, New Zealand's Minister of Transport. "I have requested a rapid investigation into the management of this event to make sure KiwiRail learns from this event, and prevent it from happening again. I expect to receive the findings of the review next month," added Duncan Webb, Member of Parliament for Christchurch Central.
KiwiRail's response: KiwiRail Chair David McLean said that the company would fully cooperate with the government review and accepted full responsibility for the disruption. "We are working to resolve the matter in days, not weeks, and to ensure this issue is not repeated," said McLean. "The disruptions are unacceptable."
Investment in rail: Since 2017, the government has invested $8.6 billion in building a resilient and reliable rail network, including replacing tracks, installing new culverts and bridges, and upgrading turnouts. "We’re continuing to invest in our rail network, and last week we announced a fleet of 18 brand new trains for Wairarapa and Kapiti Coast to support the introduction of express services which will attract additional commuters," said Wood.
Public confidence: The investigation aims to restore public confidence and ensure New Zealanders see the benefits of the government's investment in rail infrastructure. "This investigation is vital to public confidence, and ensure New Zealanders are realising the benefits of the Government’s investment," Wood emphasised.