Train commuters in Wellington have little choice but to take the bus until 6 January.
Much of the rail network is shut so work can continue on a $500 million upgrade.
KiwiRail says the focus is on re-arranging the junction at Wellington station, in preparation for a third main line.
Further work will be carried out on the Hutt Valley and Johnsonville lines and at the station at Pukerua Bay.
KiwiRail says 11 days is necessary to get the work done. Trains to all stops resume on 6 January.