12 Jun 2019

Pets to be allowed on Auckland trains during trial

2:32 pm on 12 June 2019

Aucklanders will be allowed to take pets on board public transport in the city starting this Sunday, 16 June.

Auckland Transport has begun a trial of pets on trains.

Auckland Transport is starting a pets on trains trial. Photo: Auckland Transport

Following the introduction of transporting pets on buses and trains in Wellington last year, the Auckland Council asked for a trial on trains.

Pets will have to be in a suitable carrier, on an owner's lap or under seats and travel will only be allowed at off-peak times.

The manager of metro services Stacey van der Putten says there are many Aucklanders who may not own a car.

They will be able to take their pets to the vet, or exploring in the city and there will be no extra cost to travel.

There are a few conditions:

  • Pets can only board trains at off-peak times and they must be caged and controlled at all times.
  • Owners must clean up after their pets before getting off trains.
  • Owners can be asked to get off a train if their animal is causing safety risks or a nuisance to other users.
  • Entry to board with a pet may be refused if a train is full.

Auckland will review feedback and conduct a survey to check how customers are finding the trial.