New train station building opens in central Auckland

A new train station building has opened in central Auckland for Te Huia and Northern Explorer travellers.

KiwiRail has renovated the Parnell Rise 1930s building, which used to operate railway signals and is a few hundred metres away from The Strand platform.

It now includes a new café, waiting lounge, toilets and showers, and workspace area. Free WiFi will be available early next year.

A new permanent mobility ramp has also been installed at The Strand platform.

KiwiRail chief customer and growth officer Adele Wilson said there was a plan to have a 'scenic plus' offer on the Northern Explorer next year, with demand growing since the service restarted over a year ago.

"The new station building will help deliver an even better customer experience for Northern Explorer and Te Huia passengers, while keeping a strong link to New Zealand's proud rail history."

Waikato regional councillor Angela Strange, who is also chair of the Future Proof Public Transport Subcommittee, said Te Huia also was regularly hitting its weekday patronage targets.

"I am confident any improvements - including new facilities such as this one - will see Te Huia go from strength to strength."

From 8 February, Te Huia will have a third daily return service running on Thursdays and Fridays, where KiwiRail says demand has been highest, and a second return service on Saturdays.

KiwiRail said the new station building would later be available to be booked for events, and have an information counter, where customers could ask about Great Journeys New Zealand's offerings.