Our to-do list

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

We worked through a long list of checks, tests, trials, and practise runs so that everything is safe and works as expected. In total we completed 16,000 individual tests across the CRL.

We also upgraded rail lines around the region to handle more frequent trains. We ordered more trains, and trained more staff to operate them. At the same time, we also updated all the signs, timetables and digital information you will need to get around.

On this page you can learn about the most important things we did.

CRL stations completed and checked

Before we opened CRL, all 3 stations needed to be completely finished, fitted out and tested.

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

Link Alliance, the main contractor for the CRL project, completed most tests before handing over the stations to Auckland Transport (AT). The process was 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, had to 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 needed to be thoroughly tested and fine-tuned for trains running at high frequency.

Before we opened CRL, we thoroughly tested train operations for our new network. This included practising running the entire network to the new timetable so trains keep running on time after opening.

The first tests were completed by Link Alliance. These tests used 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 was carried out by AT, Auckland One Rail, and KiwiRail. It included testing how the new services work alongside freight and longer-distance passenger trains like Te Huia.

Getting the public transport system ready

We ordered new trains to expand our fleet for more services. We also refitted the current trains with new features to get them ready for CRL. We improved bus routes and connections and updated all the signs, maps, and audio information across the network so you can find your way.

We’ve also brought on extra workers — train crews, maintenance teams, and customer service staff — to ensure you have a smooth ride. Existing staff are also now trained for CRL operations.

Before we opened CRL, we needed 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’ve worked 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 were needed on tracks around the region to handle the extra volume of train trips.

Before we opened CRL, we completed 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 worked 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. Approval was needed from NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) as a rail safety regulator.

NZTA issues licenses for all railways in Aotearoa. They do so on the basis of ‘safety cases’, which outline how operators manage safety on a railway.

Before we opened the CRL, we needed to gain an updated license for the new Auckland rail timetable and new infrastructure.

KiwiRail and Auckland One Rail – Auckland Transport’s rail operator – submitted these safety case variations (SCVs) to NZTA, with the support of CRL Ltd and AT.

NZTA independently reviewed the SCVs and approved them once it was confident the plan to operate the railway is safe.

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 needed to be tested.

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

Below is a list of the types of systems and utilities 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 tested included:

• 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 tested included:

• 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 tested included:

• 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 tested included:

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