Waikato District Council has joined the chorus of people and groups urging central government to continue funding Te Huia train service.
The council highlighted the regional value of the public transport service, with mayor Jacqui Church saying in a statement that defunding of the train would be “hugely disappointing”.
“As at December 2023, Te Huia had achieved or was close to achieving all of its set targets for this stage of the trial. It was also on track to meet all identified targets and benefits within the full five-year trial period,” Church said.
Te Huia has stations in Frankton, Rotokauri, and Huntly, allowing those living in Waikato to commute to and from Auckland. The service was launched in April 2021 as part of a five-year trial.
