The group is calling the service a vital link that would serve nearly half of the nation’s population and build on the proven success of inter-regional rail.

“This service is a logical and vital next step for New Zealand’s transport network,” said Dr. Roger Blakeley, Chair of The Future is Rail. “By linking Auckland, Hamilton, and Tauranga via the existing rail corridor, the train would serve up to 2.5 million people. It’s time to connect our country’s most significant economic and population centres with modern, efficient transport.”

The proposed service would complement and extend the existing Te Huia train, which connects Hamilton and Auckland seven days a week.

“Te Huia’s ahead-of-schedule ridership growth is evidence that Kiwis will embrace inter-regional rail when it’s provided,” Spokesperson, Lindsey Horne, said. “We see this as completing a critical missing link in our national transport system.”

The Future is Rail highlighted the significant advantages passenger rail has over current travel options between the two cities.

“Currently, the 225km journey between Tauranga and Auckland forces people onto roads or into expensive flights,” Ms Horne stated.

“Passenger rail offers a better alternative that is safer, greener, more affordable, and more comfortable. It allows for a productive journey with significantly lower carbon emissions, where passengers can work or relax instead of facing the stress of driving.”

South Island Spokesperson, Dave Macpherson, noted that the project aligns with a growing ‘passenger rail renaissance’ in New Zealand, citing broad public and political support.

“There is a growing public demand for passenger rail, from campaigns to re-establish the Southerner train between Christchurch and Invercargill to upgrades for the Capital Connection and Wairarapa rail services. Investing in passenger rail has wide and growing support from across the political spectrum, and this project is a perfect opportunity to deliver what New Zealanders are asking for.”

The Future is Rail is a national advocacy group dedicated to promoting the benefits and expansion of passenger and freight rail services throughout New Zealand.