A petition has been launched for a commuter train service between Hamilton and Auckland.
Some 11,500 people have signed the petition, which was presented to local MPs at the Hamilton Railway Station on Monday morning.
The service was tried 10 years ago, but ended due to lack of patronage.
The Campaign for Better Transport says now is the time to try again, citing congestion on the motorway, higher petrol costs and the opening of the Britomart station in Auckland.
Spokesperson Jon Reeves says for 10 years ago the service was offered once a day, but to work now two to three return trips would be needed.
He says by giving travellers the convenience of a shuttle service, then more people are likely to use it instead of driving between the two cities.
Mr Reeves says rolling stock is available and there is nothing to stop the service starting soon.
It is predicted the service would need subsidies from central and local government of $1 million a year.
