27 Aug 2011

Public to have say on Hamilton-Auckland rail link

8:58 am on 27 August 2011

A passenger rail service between Hamilton and Auckland has come a step closer with authorities agreeing the idea can go out for public consultation.

The service would cost $24 one way and could cater for up to 130 passengers a day.

The chairman of a working party, Waikato regional councillor Norm Barker, says if people are keen on the project it will go back to various local councils to consider putting in long-term plans.

He says more work is also needed to determine the economic and social benefits of the project for Auckland.

While the matter is out for consultation, the working party will develop a funding proposal for the 2012 to 2022 Regional Land Transport Programme.