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While two of Franklin’s new stations are now online, Auckland rail travel is set to take an even greater step forward when the City Rail Link (CRL) launches.
Until then, passengers can take a ‘First Look’ at CRL stations and a new Journey Planner tool is intended to help navigate the enhanced network including its South City Line (SCL).
The CRL will reshape rail travel, Auckland Council Transport and Infrastructure Delivery Committee chair, Andy Baker asserts.
“It will be possible to get a direct train from Panmure to Kingsland, from Pukekohe and Papatoetoe direct to the city centre or Karangahape Road,” he says. “To help customers prepare for the changes, Auckland Transport (AT) has added a new Journey Planner feature that allows users to switch between today’s network and the future CRL-enabled network.”
Auckland’s train timetable will change with three new train lines – East West, South City and Onehunga West – and three new city stations.
At peak, trains will run every 5–10 minutes and every 15 minutes throughout the day, including weekends.
The SCL will run from Pukekohe to the city centre. Unlike on the Southern Line, SCL trains may arrive at and depart from different platforms depending on their direction, so passengers should check boarding information before travelling.
The new Journey Planner is intended to help users better understand such changes, AT’s Mark Lambert expects.
“We want people to get familiar with the new lines and where the new stations sit. Even a small change, such as [a train] arriving a few minutes earlier or later, can have a big impact and we want to help people plan ahead,” he says.
“If you want to see what travel will look like on a Monday, you can select that option. If you’re looking to see how you can connect with bus services near new train stations, the tool will show you the options.”
New stations at Maungawhau (Mount Eden), Karanga-a-Hape and Te Waihorotiu in the city centre are hosting First Look events from tomorrow (August 8).
Visitors will be able to learn more about the stations and how the new network will operate. While the events are free, tickets are limited.
“This will mark the first time the public will be able to enter Auckland’s newest stations and we’re excited to give people the opportunity to experience them before passenger services begin,” Lambert adds.
Visit at.govt.nz to access the Journey Planner preview or for more information about First Look events.
Update: since the above went to print, the opening date for the CRL was confirmed. Click here for details.
