Wairarapa Line
As part of Future Rail, KiwiRail is undertaking a once-in-a-generation upgrade of the Wairarapa Line to support the Greater Wellington Regional Council’s (GWRC) plans for rail. Work started in 2021 and will continue until 2028.
When we’re finished, Wairarapa residents will have a railway that…
- is built to last,
- is safer for rail users and road users,
- can support more reliable and faster services, and
- can move more freight.
With fewer cars and trucks on Wairarapa roads, residents will enjoy less congestion, lower transport emissions and a more sustainable future.
Read about Latest news | Renewals | Upgrades | Level crossings
GWRC's new hybrid trains are expected in 2029. Supported by KiwiRail’s upgrade works, they will allow for more peak and off-peak services.
Latest news
(updated September 2024)
- This month we are laying ducting for cables alongside the line, starting at the Ngaumutawa Road level crossing at Masterton and working north. These cables will provide power to a new signalling system that enables more trains to be on the line at any one time.
- In September we start on a full upgrade for the Cornwall Street level crossing in Masterton. We will be updating the two existing pedestrian crossings with mazes and gates. Next up is Hillcrest Street (starting October) and Kent Street in Carterton (November).
- In August it was a pleasure to work with Wairarapa Road Safety Council and Solway School to deliver a level crossing safety programme to children, using a specially designed digital simulator. Watch the video.
- In July the Government confirmed funding that will enable Greater Wellington Regional Council to deliver hybrid trains in 2029. KiwiRail's infrastructure works will support the new trains and increased services.
- Buses will replace trains on the Wairarapa line for 46 days between 26 December 2024 and 10 February 2025 so that KiwiRail can complete the renewal of the track inside the 8.8km Remutaka Tunnel. Learn more here.
- As well as the upgrade work, essential maintenance continues that can affect travel times. We know it’s frustrating and appreciate your patience. Visit Metlink for a guide to disruptions.
Renewals
(updated July 2024)
Renewal is when we take out an old, worn-out piece of infrastructure (such as tracks, sleepers and bridges) and replace it with something new that will last a long time.
Done:
- Renewed 58.8km of track to Masterton, including the 572m Maoribank Tunnel.
- Replaced the drainage in the Maoribank and Remutaka Tunnels.
- Replaced three aging bridges.
- About 1km into the job of completely replacing the line inside the 8.8km Remutaka Tunnel.
To do:
- Finish replacing the track in the 8.8km Remutaka Tunnel, so trains can go through it faster than 60 km/h.
Buses will replace trains on the Wairarapa line for 46 days between 26 December 2024 and 10 February 2025 to allow us to get the tunnel finished.
Upgrades
(updated July 2024)
KiwiRail is using New Zealand Upgrade Programme (NZUP) funding to build the Wairarapa’s rail capacity for the future.
Done:
- Installed new concrete track slab on the SH2 level crossing at Featherston.
- About halfway through building the over 40km of pipes that carry cables for the new signalling system.
- Installed the first turnout for the passing loop at Woodside.
To do:
- Install new signals along the line, which increases safety for road and rail users, increases the efficiency of train movements and allows more than one train at a time in the Featherston to Masterton section, enabling a 15-minute peak service.
- Make safety upgrades at the 30 level crossings, including some closures.
- Build a new platform and passenger train passing loop at Maymorn.
- Build a freight siding and backshunt (wagon storage) at Waingawa, to remove freight operations from the main Wairarapa Line and better separate freight from passenger services.
KiwiRail will also use government funding to make station platform improvements. In addition, GWRC will be building a depot where the new trains can be serviced.
Much of this work will happen on weekdays alongside the railway, but train services will still be able to operate. There may be occasional temporary speed restrictions and service disruptions. More disruptive works that require trains to be replaced by buses will be done over select weekends and public holidays.
Level crossings
(updated September 2024)
Following an independent report, KiwiRail will be upgrading 25, and closing five level crossings along the stretch of network between Featherston and Masterton.
See the August press statement here: Wairarapa level crossing upgrade work gets underway
Wairarapa level crossing works programme - click image to view larger
Questions?
Please contact us on:
- 0800 801 070 (daytime hours)
- 0800 801 070 extn 43042 (after hours)
- email wgtnupgrade@kiwirail.co.nz
Visit Metlink for more details on train services.
