Train situation: mostly fine

BY JIM CHIPP - THE WELLINGTONIAN

The Wellingtonian's review of the region's public transport networks continues with a look at the train services.

Reporter Jim Chipp spoke to travellers on the trains and found most people happy, despite recent disruptions as tracks and electricity network were upgraded.

Ken Dixon, of Alicetown, commutes to work in Wellington on the train between one and three times a week.

"I bike in if it's nice."

The service was comfortable and usually reliable, he said. "Generally it's pretty good, but sometimes it's not so great."

Phil Doole, of Lower Hutt, commutes to Wellington by train every day.

"It's been regular and on time – it's caught me out a few times now." Mr Doole also said the trains were comfortable.

Jessica Smith, of Alicetown doesn't agree.

"I think it's crap. I only use it when I have to. It's unreliable. I'm late to work too many times. I can't afford to do that. They don't pay me when I'm late."

She doesn't think the trains are always comfortable, either. "If it's not too crowded it's not too bad. If it is [crowded], it's horrible."

One Karori resident who did not wish to be named has been using the train for 13 years.

"It's good, I use it quite often [to travel to and from Johnsonville] perhaps twice a week. It's comfortable. No problems."

John Hughes, a Ngaio pensioner, said he found the Johnsonville train service quite good. "I don't use it all that often, just occasional trips to Wellington. It's usually on time. It's comfortable."

Delays to services for a good cause

Train commuters have faced delays and frequent cancellations while the tracks, tunnels and overhead electricity supply cables have been upgraded to accommodate the new Matangi trains.

OnTrack spokesperson Ruth Larsen said most of the project was due for completion next year.

The Johnsonville line's tunnels have been enlarged, and platform extensions will continue into 2010.

A third main line in and out of Wellington Station is due for completion in mid-2010.

The electrification and double-tracking of the Kapiti line should be complete by the end of next year.

In other work, the overhead wires supplying electricity to the trains is being upgraded for the new trains and extra power substations are being built along the lines. This work is due to be completed by the time the new trains go into service.

"By the end of next year people should be seeing the benefits of what we are doing," Ms Larsen said.

"For the most part, people have been quite understanding and patient."

Wellington Regional Council spokeswoman Philippa Lagan said the Matangi trains should be in service by September 2010.

Have your say

What do you think about Wellington's train service? Is it as good as most of our feedback indicates? Which are the best, and the worst, routes.

Leave a comment below or email with your views to editor@thewellingtonian.co.nz