Budget 2026 rail funding commended but sustained investment required

Greater Wellington has welcomed Budget 2026 funding for rail renewals in the Wellington Region; while warning that sustained, long-term investment in the Crown’s rail assets will be needed to restore reliability and rebuild public trust in the network.

The Government has allocated $106.9 million for renewals on the Wellington and Auckland Metropolitan rail networks in the 2028-29 financial year.

"It’s encouraging to see Budget 2026 continue investment in much-needed rail renewals for the Wellington Region," says Greater Wellington Chair Cr Daran Ponter.

"This funding is important, but it cannot remain piecemeal. A longer-term commitment from the Government is needed so KiwiRail and Greater Wellington can plan ahead, get through the renewals programme in a faster more optimised way, and give passengers the reliable rail network they deserve."

Greater Wellington Public Transport Committee Chair Cr Ros Connelly says sustained investment in the Crown’s rail infrastructure is critical to improving day-to-day services for Metlink passengers.
“We commend the Government for maintaining investment in the health of its rail network towards the end of the decade,” says Cr Ros Connelly. 

“Wellingtonians are tired of cancellations, delays and bus replacements caused by ageing rail infrastructure. Like three waters assets, a generation of under investment has left the rail network in poor health and a state of decline.” 

But to get on top of the back log of end-of-life rail assets – more money is needed before public confidence in the rail network can start to be restored, Cr Connelly says. 

“Sustained investment in overdue renewals to return the network to a steady state will grow patronage and our region’s economy. It will reduce disruptions for existing Metlink services and make our new Tūhono trains a more frequent and reliable option for commuters.

"Funding can then be targeted at upgrades to create a modern, resilient rail network through better asset management and new infrastructure like signalling systems, grade separated level crossings and double tracking.

“In the meantime, we applaud additional funding for rail in Budget 2026 and invite the government to adopt our vision of a consistently reliable rail network for passengers and freight that underpins the economic well-being of Aotearoa New Zealand.”