Story by Colin Ambler/cvnznews.com
Wellington’s Metlink passengers are being warned to expect delays over Waitangi weekend, with major rail lines replaced by buses while KiwiRail carries out a fresh round of infrastructure upgrades.
Metlink rail services will be replaced by buses from Friday 6 to Sunday 8 February, as KiwiRail continues its programme of network improvements following work completed over the New Year period.
The Kāpiti Line, Hutt Valley Line and Wairarapa Line will all be affected, with full bus‑replacement services running throughout the long weekend. The Johnsonville Line is the only route that will operate as normal.
KiwiRail says the upgrades include track replacements, construction work on Ava Bridge, and level‑crossing improvements along the Wairarapa Line. The work forms part of a wider effort to modernise Wellington’s rail network and prepare it for faster, more frequent trains from 2028/2029.
Metlink is advising passengers to plan ahead, allow extra time, and check the updated timetables before travelling.
Additional delays are expected on the Hutt Valley Line, where buses will be forced to detour due to roadworks on Ewen Bridge. Travel times will be longer than usual, and congestion may cause further disruption.
Metlink says it appreciates the timing is inconvenient but stresses the upgrades are essential to improving long‑term reliability and performance across the region’s rail network.