Auckland Transport continues City Rail Link timetable testing with replacement buses in operation

Auckland Transport (AT) is continuing timetable testing for the City Rail Link (CRL) today and tomorrow, ahead of the network’s opening later this year. During testing, trains are running, but services are not yet available to passengers.

Rail replacement buses are operating at a 10-minute frequency during peak times. AT reported some delays for passengers boarding buses this morning and expects buses to be very busy again this evening and during peak periods tomorrow. Commuters are encouraged to use regular bus services or travel outside peak hours where possible to ease pressure.

Customer Service teams, easily identified by their pink vests, are assisting passengers, and the AT Journey Planner tool is available to help find suitable bus routes.

Over 280 train drivers and managers are involved in the testing process, ensuring that the new timetable is thoroughly evaluated before the CRL opens. Stacey Van Der Putten, Auckland Transport Director of Public Transport and Active Modes, said the testing is proceeding well.

“As expected, some issues have arisen while moving from modelling to real-life testing, including minor delays getting 84 trains out of the depot simultaneously. These are being addressed now to ensure reliable services from Day 1,” she said.

The testing programme allows train crews to familiarise themselves with new routes through the city centre and ensures that operational challenges are resolved before the CRL launches. Auckland Transport thanked the public for their patience and support, noting that rigorous testing is essential to deliver a safe, world-class rail network with reliable journeys for all passengers from the start.