More than 125 people turned out for a public meeting seeking the continuation of the Capital Connection rail service – but absent were any members of the New Zealand Transport Agency.

About 80 per cent of those at the meeting in Wellington lastnight were travellers who used the service which runs between Palmerston North and Wellington each morning and night, Kapiti Coast Mayor Jenny Rowan said.

‘‘People are very keen [to keep the service]. There’s high energy to make sure Capital Connection doesn’t stop.’’

The service is under threat and has struggled since the extension of the Tranz Metro service to Waikanae last year.

Capital Connection patronage has fallen since KiwiRail extended electrification to Waikanae in 2011.

A resolution was passed urging Transport Minister Gerry Brownlee to continue the service.

‘‘It was very successful. I’m very grateful such a huge number turned up this evening, and very pleased with how the meeting went.’’

Others in attendance included Greater Wellington regional council chairwoman Fran Wilde, Horizons counterpart Bruce Gordon, MPs Nathan Guy and Iain Lees-Galloway, Horowhenua Mayor Brendan Duffy.

Both Horizons and Greater Wellington regional councils have said they want to pursue funding options to retain the train.

- © Fairfax NZ News

Comments