Our to-do list

Opening a new underground rail line is a huge undertaking. We’re introducing a new timetable across Tāmaki Makaurau, featuring new routes, more trains, and other key improvements.

We're working through a long list of checks, tests, trials, and practise runs so that everything is safe and works as expected. In total there are 16,000 individual tests to be completed across the CRL.

We’re also finishing work to upgrade rail lines around the region so they can handle more frequent trains. We’ve ordered more trains, and we're training more staff to operate them. At the same time, we're also updating all the signs, timetables, and digital information you will need to get around.

On this page you can learn about the most important things left on our to-do list.

CRL stations completed and checked

The CRL stations are nearly complete, and we’re working on the final stages. Before we open CRL, all 3 stations need to be completely finished, fitted out, and tested.

Testing ensures everything works together as it should — from ticket gates to information screens, escalators, and bathrooms. This includes emergency tests of alarms, help points, and cameras, with drills to keep you safe.

Link Alliance, the main contractor for the CRL project, will complete most tests before handing over the stations to Auckland Transport (AT). The process is supported by all groups involved in delivering and opening the CRL, especially KiwiRail, who owns and operates the rail infrastructure.

All information and digital systems, like passenger information displays and CCTV cameras, must be fully integrated with existing transport systems.

Tunnel and timetable train testing

CRL is a complex piece of infrastructure. It’s New Zealand’s first urban underground rail system and the largest infrastructure project built in New Zealand to date. It needs to be thoroughly tested and fine-tuned for trains running at high frequency.

Before we open CRL, we’re thoroughly testing train operations for our new network. This includes practising running the entire network to the new timetable so we can keep trains running on time after opening.

The first tests are completed by Link Alliance. These tests use AT trains and staff from operator Auckland One Rail. KiwiRail is also involved as the owner and operator of the tunnels, tracks, signals, and train power supply system.

Testing of the full timetable is carried out by AT, Auckland One Rail, and KiwiRail. It includes testing how the new services work alongside freight and longer-distance passenger trains like Te Huia.

Getting the public transport system ready

We have ordered new trains to expand our fleet for more services. We're also refitting the current trains with new features to get them ready for CRL. We’re improving bus routes and connections and working to update all the signs, maps, and audio information across the network so you can find your way.

We’re also bringing on extra workers — train crews, maintenance teams, and customer service staff — to ensure you have a smooth ride. Existing staff also need to be trained for CRL operations.

Before we can open CRL, we need to get our entire public transport system ready for a whole new way of running.

AT is responsible for owning the train fleet, operating public transport services, and providing customer information systems. We’re working with partners like our operator Auckland One Rail and maintenance provider Downer to make sure we're ready. KiwiRail and its contractors maintain the tracks, tunnels, train power supply, and signal.

Upgrading and rebuilding rail infrastructure

CRL means more trains more often across Auckland, but upgrades are needed on tracks around the region to handle the extra volume of train trips.

Before we can open CRL, we’re completing key upgrades and new build projects on the Auckland Rail network.

KiwiRail is responsible for delivering wider infrastructure projects, most network upgrades, and the Rail Network Rebuild. It works closely with delivery contractors and AT to manage disruption caused by this work.

Regulatory tick of approval

Safety of a new rail system is not left to chance. There is a rail regulator — NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA), which needs to approve organisations’ safety cases. These safety cases detail the approach to managing safety on a railway.

Before we can open CRL, we need to update our safety cases for the new Auckland rail timetable and new infrastructure.

KiwiRail and Auckland One Rail are responsible for submitting safety case variations to NZTA. They are supported in this process by CRL and AT. NZTA carries out an independent review and approval of these safety cases.

Submission happens once KiwiRail and Auckland One Rail are confident their operating plans will address all safety risks.

What goes into a CRL station

The CRL stations are complex. Modern underground railway stations worldwide are incredibly sophisticated, with many systems to ensure people travelling have a safe, reliable, and seamless journey. These all need to be tested.

The testing process starts with making sure each individual system works as it should. Then testing is done to see how the systems interact with each other. After this the operation of the station is tested as a whole. This involves testing regular procedures and then testing emergency responses in simulated scenarios.

Below is a list of the types of systems and utilities being installed and tested in the CRL stations. To connect all of the technological systems in CRL, there is more than 1000km of cable installed — a million metres.

These cables connect many hundreds of CCTV cameras, payment terminals, digital screens, sensors, Wi-Fi, and mobile access points. 

Building systems being tested include:

• ventilation — including emergency exhaust and air
• hydraulic systems
• heating and cooling
• high voltage power
• low voltage power
• distribution boards
• potable water
• stormwater drains, sumps, and pumps
• waterproofing and flood testing
• wastewater and sewer
• building management systems.

Customer and accessibility systems being tested include:

• lighting
• lifts and escalators
• wayfinding
• signage — including back-lit signage
• digital passenger information displays
• payment (HOP) gates
• accessibility features — tactiles and ramps
• hearing loops
• PA system
• retail space fit-out.

Emergency and public safety systems being tested include:

• uninterruptible power supply — backup power
• gas suppression system
• fire alarm system and sprinklers
• Public Address and Voice Activation (PAVA)
• Emergency Help Points (EHP)
• station CCTV
• Access Control & Intruder Detection (ACID)
• warning zone detection — yellow line on platforms
• Platform to Track Detection (PTD)
• emergency lighting.

Technology and connectivity systems being tested include:

• communications systems
• fibre connections
• Cellular connectivity in stations and tunnels — 4G and 5G
• station radio.