Auckland ushers in a new era of rapid transit

“The value of this project will be felt every day. Whether you’re heading to work, school, Eden Park or K’ Road for a meal, the new network will make getting around Auckland faster and easier. It will also provide tangible economic benefits.

“I encourage Aucklanders to get on board, literally, and make the most of this significant investment in our city’s future.”

Deputy mayor Desley Simpson said the project is a lot more than a public transport project; it’s a celebration of the public space that the Auckland Council group and CRL Limited have unlocked in the new station precincts around the rail corridor. She explained the three big urban regeneration projects – downtown, midtown and Karangahape Road – reflect years of collaboration between the council, mana whenua, artists, urban designers, delivery partners and many others.

“We have created beautiful places where te ao Māori narratives are visible and embedded, where history is acknowledged and carried forward, and where people feel a sense of belonging.

“We are building a city that tells its stories with confidence,” she said.

For councillor Richard Hills, chair of the Policy, Planning and Development Committee, the opening represents a significant step forward in the city’s sustainability journey, too: “With our all-electric trains arriving more often, more than 400 electric buses, ever-expanding frequent bus network, new cycleways and pedestrian friendly spaces, Aucklanders will be travelling in great numbers in a far more connected environmentally friendly way.”

He added: “This all means the air we breathe will continue to improve, emissions will reduce and Auckland will continue to pick up the pace as we strive to become a more sustainable city.

“The City Rail Link has also become an international example of embedding indigenous knowledge, cultural identity and public art into major infrastructure delivery, with mana whenua being lead partners throughout.

“Every station and its neighbourhood tells a unique cultural story reflecting the history, identity and significance of its location within Tāmaki Makaurau.”