Editorial: Capital Connection an important link

OPINION: The saying "you don't know what you've got till it's gone" stuck with me as I hopped aboard the Capital Connection.

I had to go to Wellington for work and get back the same day, so I took the train option – and I'm glad I did.

Sure, it's an early start (a 6.20am departure), but then you get to make up the time once you're on.

Apart from the convenience of having a reliable, safe and clean transport link to the capital, it is also a social experience for many people.

The morning I popped down, there were people who looked like regulars. They clustered together, catching up, sneaking a few yawns behind their hands. Once on board they took what looked like their usual spots. They got out their flasks of coffee, a quick snack, laptops, books and newspapers. Those wanting a quick kip pulled the curtains, put on their iPods and drifted off.

It was all very cosy.

As we got closer to Wellington more and more suited people joined the carriage. There was also a group of older women from Shannon who were excited about their day trip to Levin and livened up the cabin. Some cyclists jumped on board to make the trip too.

As we approached the capital's station I noticed the carriage I was in was almost full. People were talking about the future of the service and I even heard a few grumbles about the chance it could be scrapped or cut back.

After my day's work I stopped off at the bar at the train station and grabbed a quick beer before my 5.17pm departure time. It was all very relaxed and I even noted a few familiar faces as we headed back north.

The women who spent the day in Levin were having a good old natter about their day and waved goodbye as they got off in Shannon.

As we approached Palmerston North I spotted a man taking photos of the train – perhaps in case it does cease.

If the service does get cut it will be a real shame, on so many levels. Taking away something like the Capital Connection will destroy the sense of community that so many of the commuters have. It will also take away jobs, convenience and even, dare I say it, a sense of identity. It may not suit everyone, but it's a great alternative to being stuck in a car on a slow road for two hours. It's something that deserves to be saved and I am glad that there are people who feel the same way.

One more thing: The name suppression case about the prominent Manawatu man who downloaded child pornography has been the hot topic of the week. Apart from the actual offending, the judge's decision to suppress and the seemingly weak punishment, we now find that the prosecution will not appeal. That's understandable, but it would be interesting to know how many people in the community do know the man's name, through one way or another. Do you?

- © Fairfax NZ News

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