Advocates call for South Island passenger rail investment
Tuesday 15 September 2026 · 3 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story City Rail Link
Save our Trains Southern spokesperson Dave MacPherson is calling for passenger rail to be introduced across the South Island. He suggests that the significant funding allocated to Auckland's City Rail Link demonstrates a strong demand for rail services when they are provided.
Key facts
4 facts
- Proposed rail routes include Amberley to Ashburton and Christchurch, Dunedin, and Invercargill
- Estimated train procurement cost is $112 million
- New Zealand First, Labour, and the Green Party have supported the proposals in principle
- The South Island population has grown faster than the North Island over the last two years
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Save our Trains Southern is calling for the introduction of passenger rail services across the South Island. The group's spokesperson, Dave MacPherson, suggested that the success of Auckland's City Rail Link demonstrates significant public interest in rail when it is provided.
The proposed Canterbury plan includes rail between Amberley and Ashburton, as well as connections between Christchurch, Dunedin, and Invercargill. This plan would also incorporate Rolleston, which is noted as the fastest growing town in New Zealand.
MacPherson estimated that purchasing the required trains would cost $112 million, noting that the tracks are already in place. He stated, "It's not like building a new highway when you start from scratch. We've got a track here now".
Transport minister Chris Bishop said the government is currently focused on investing in existing metro rail networks in Wellington and Auckland. He noted these networks have experienced years of under-investment regarding track maintenance.
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald and The Press.
