About the Rail Network Rebuild
KiwiRail are completing the work one stage at a time, over the next 3 years. Find out more about the project and why the work is necessary.
On this page
Key information
This Rail Network Rebuild is required so that KiwiRail can rebuild the aging foundations across our rail network. The work will be done one section at a time, over the next 3 years.
When the rail network rebuild is complete and the City Rail Link opens, Auckland will have the modern and reliable rail network it deserves, bringing you more frequent services and faster journeys on all-electric trains.
Why we need to close the lines
The Rail Network Rebuild is not surface-level work. KiwiRail will lift the rails and sleepers, replace the foundations, improve drainage, and put the rails and sleepers back down.
KiwiRail investigated a range of options to limit the impact on train users. This included limiting work to evenings and weekends. However under that schedule, the Rail Network Rebuild would take nearly 20 years to complete.
Stages of the Rail Network Rebuild
The Rail Network Rebuild will have 8 stages in total. KiwiRail are currently implementing Stage 2.
Stage 1
In Stage 1, 6 stations on the Southern and Onehunga Lines were closed between 16 January 2023 and 19 March 2023.
The stations closed for Stage 1 were:
- Remuera
- Greenlane
- Ellerslie
- Penrose
- Te Papapa
- Onehunga
Stage 2
In Stage 2, 5 stations on the Eastern Line will be closed from 20 March 2023 until January 2024. Stations closed for Stage 1 will reopen.
The stations closed for Stage 2 are:
- Ōrākei
- Meadowbank
- Glen Innes
- Panmure
- Sylvia Park
Remaining stages
The remaining stages will be completed one section at a time over the next 3 years, so the rest of the train network can stay open during works. We’ll keep you informed with the details of additional stages as they are confirmed.
We know you've dealt with a lot of rail closures lately
We understand how difficult and stressful changing the way you get around Auckland can be.
We’ll be there to help you get where you need to be, and we’ll be providing a range of alternative services throughout all stages of KiwiRail's Rail Network Rebuild.
Thank you for your patience and understanding while KiwiRail carry out these important works.