Through a re-evaluation of the New Zealand Upgrade Program (NZUP), the NZ Government has proposed a rail link providing additional rail connectivity in the Northland region. The program will aim to encourage freight to be carried by rail instead of road by providing a freight rail connection to Northport.
The indicative route of the NZUP-funded project, designated in 2012, is approximately 19 kilometres and will run between North Auckland Line in Oakleigh, south of Whangarei, and Marsden Point in Northport. The rail corridor width is expected to future proof for double tracking, with five road crossings on this route to be grade separated.
Separate funding has been allocated to reopen the currently mothballed line between Kauri (just north of Whangārei) and Otiria, and to build a rail/road transfer site at Otiria. Alongside this, additional NZUP funding is set to upgrade this section to enable the carrying of 18 tonne axle loads.
Key Dates
Jun 2021 | Project Announcement |
2022 | Expected Construction Commencement |
Procurement
Procuring Agency: | KiwiRail |
PROJECT HISTORY
Jun 2021 | A re-evaluation of the New Zealand Upgrade Program proposed a rail link between Northpoint and the North Auckland Rail Line. |