Auckland’s Underground Revolution Takes a Test Drive
In a development that has rail enthusiasts literally jumping up and down (though hopefully not on the platforms), Auckland’s City Rail Link (CRL) project hit a major milestone as the first test train completed its maiden voyage through the city’s newest underground artery.
The 3.45km journey from Britomart Station to Mt Eden marked the first time a train has graced brand-new railway tracks in New Zealand since 2012, proving that good things do come to those who wait – and wait Aucklanders certainly have.
“It’s like watching your teenager finally get their driver’s license,” quipped Transport Minister Chris Bishop, who couldn’t contain his enthusiasm about the project that will effectively turn Britomart from a railway dead-end into a through station – much like upgrading from a cul-de-sac to a superhighway.
The test run wasn’t just for show – technical experts were busy checking everything from tunnel clearance to power supply and signaling, ensuring the underground railway doesn’t turn into New Zealand’s most expensive game of bumper cars.
For those counting the minutes (and aren’t we all?), the CRL promises to be a genuine game-changer for Auckland’s commuters. Journey times will be slashed dramatically, with the trip from Maungawhau to Britomart taking under 10 minutes – half the current time for those keeping score at home.
Mayor Wayne Brown, displaying his characteristic optimism, declared the milestone “momentous,” though he couldn’t resist adding that the project “has had its fair share of challenges” – perhaps the understatement of the year.
When fully operational, the CRL will treat Aucklanders to a veritable smorgasbord of frequent services, with trains running every 5 minutes on some lines during peak times . It’s enough to make a Swiss railway conductor jealous.
The project, set to open in 2026, represents more than just a tunnel – it’s Auckland’s ticket to a more efficient future, promising to double the city’s rail capacity and give commuters more time to enjoy their flat whites instead of staring at brake lights.
As Minister Bishop aptly concluded, “tens of thousands of Auckland commuters are right behind you” – though hopefully not too right behind you, as social distancing on public transport is still considered polite.
