Wairarapa rail upgrade delayed until 2027 despite budget constraints
A major rail upgrade in New Zealand's Wairarapa region now faces a lengthy delay. Originally set for completion by late 2022, the project will not finish until early 2027. Rising costs will be covered within the existing NZ$260 million budget, officials confirm.
Work on the Wairarapa rail upgrade began in 2021 with a planned finish date of late 2022. However, supply chain issues from the COVID-19 pandemic, labour shortages, and unexpected ground conditions caused significant setbacks. Further delays arose from community feedback and evolving technical requirements.
The scope of the project has also shifted. Initially, 23 level crossings were to be upgraded, but this number has risen to 26. Meanwhile, the number of crossings set to close dropped from seven to four. The upgrade includes signal improvements to prepare for new hybrid electric trains, which remain on track to begin service in 2029.
Greater Wellington Regional Council chairperson Daran Ponter has announced plans to seek a detailed explanation from KiwiRail regarding the extended timeline.
The delayed upgrade will now wrap up in early 2027, five years behind the original schedule. Despite the setbacks, officials insist the project will stay within its NZ$260 million budget. The completed improvements will support the introduction of hybrid electric trains by 2029.
