Council Backs Capital Connection

Tararua has backed the Capital Connection commuter train adding its voice to a groundswell of concern that the service will be lost.

The popular Palmerston North to Wellington link faces an uncertain future in the wake of a KiwiRail move to expand metro services south from Waikanae.

Councillors discussed the issue last week with Mayor Maureen Reynolds strongly in favour of a recommendation to support the retention of the service.

The Capital Connection was a fast and convenient alternative to driving and did not involve parking fees.

“As a user of the service I can also work whilst travelling to meetings,” she added.
The Mayor believed that many in the North Ward were unaware that the service existed and that it was not well publicised.

Cr. Claire Matthews voted against the motion saying that the Wairarapa train service from Masterton was another option that Tararua commuters could also consider.