Commuters on Auckland’s western rail line will not immediately experience increased rush hour service when the City Rail Link (CRL) opens later this year. Auckland Transport (AT) is planning a “temporary transitional timetable” for the first six months of operation.
Transitional Timetable Details
During this initial phase, stations between Mt Eden and Swanson will maintain the current service level of six trains per hour during peak times. This is fewer than the eight trains per hour tested in January. AT has confirmed that the transitional timetable will be tested in April and is a common practice for new major rail projects globally.
While AT anticipates that peak wait times will often be shorter than current services, irregular wait times are expected during the transitional period before additional services are introduced. This could imply some passengers face waits of up to 15 minutes during peak hours, compared to the current consistent 10-minute intervals.
Concerns from Transit Advocates
Matt Lowrie, director of the Greater Auckland advocacy group, has expressed concern that the uneven spacing of trains could lead to overcrowding and delays. He noted that a separate reduction in counter-peak services – trains traveling away from the city center in the morning and toward it in the afternoon – is also planned, initially dropping to four trains per hour.
AT plans to analyze the results of April testing and monitor network performance after the CRL opens to determine how long the temporary timetable will remain in effect. Despite the initial limitations, officials expect to provide increased services within approximately six months of the CRL’s opening in the second half of 2026.
Long-Term Benefits Remain
AT maintains that the CRL will still deliver significant reductions in journey times for western line passengers from day one, as the new underground rail link eliminates the require for trains to reverse at Newmarket. The project is also expected to facilitate direct East-West train connections to three rapid bus routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the City Rail Link?
The City Rail Link is a new rail line in Auckland that is expected to improve public transport options and reduce journey times.
When will the City Rail Link open?
The City Rail Link is expected to open in the second half of 2026, though a specific month has not been announced.
Will there be more trains on the western line immediately after the CRL opens?
No, commuters on the western line will not get more rush hour trains immediately. A temporary transitional timetable will be in place for the first six months, maintaining current service levels.
As the City Rail Link nears completion, how will the initial phased rollout of services impact the daily commute for Auckland residents?
