An exciting new era for Wellington rail customers

An exciting new era has begun for Wellington rail customers with new operator Transdev now in charge of running the region's rail services.

Paul Swain, public transport portfolio leader for Greater Wellington Regional Council, owner of the Metlink rail service, welcomed Transdev to Wellington. "We are delighted to have Transdev on board. Transdev is one of the world's largest providers of public transport services and its global experience delivered by local people will add significant value to the region's rail services.

"Our rail services have been improving constantly over the last few years, with new trains, an extended service to Waikanae, new and improved stations and more park and ride, resulting in record numbers of people now taking the train. We're looking forward to working with Transdev to make services even better."

Paul Swain says commuters will have noticed rail staff wearing new Metlink-branded uniforms. "The Metlink brand reflects our aim to deliver one integrated public transport system incorporating bus, ferry and rail services. A one stop Metlink shop makes it easier for people to find their way around and use public transport in Wellington."

Metlink is now the single online source of all Wellington's public transport customer information. "I'd strongly encourage people to go to Metlink and set up a My Metlink account. This will give people the information they need only for the services the catch and will let them know quickly of any changes or disruptions to their particular services."

Transdev's Managing Director, Niclas Flodin said, "we are excited to formally commence operations of the rail network. In partnership with Greater Wellington Regional Council, we look forward to bringing improvements in the areas of performance and focusing on the customer experience that will see growth in the network in years to come."

The new rail contract is the first of 17 new contracts for train, bus and harbour ferry services in the Wellington region, all designed to make public transport easier, smarter and better. Request for Tenders will be issued soon for new contracts for the region's bus services.

"Easier, smarter and better public transport services are key to offering Wellingtonians an alternative to using their cars."

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