ElectrificationIn the 2007 Budget the Government announced its support for the electrification of Auckland’s rail network, and gave ONTRACK the funds to build the necessary infrastructure.
When combined with the network upgrade already underway, it rivals in scale the electrification of the central section of the North Island Main Trunk in the 1980s. It is a huge step towards building a modern, sustainable rail network for Auckland.
Planning and concept development started immediately and physical work began in 2008.
We expect it will take about five years to electrify the Auckland network, and the Government has indicated that it wants the project completed by 2013.
The 25kV overhead system will extend from Papakura to Swanson and include the Manukau and Onehunga branch lines. Construction is likely to be in stages with the busiest routes targeted first.
The current Auckland rail upgrade has been planned to be compatible with the electrification project.
The Project DART website has more information about the Electrification project.