Story perspectives

Greens propose Stage Two rail works to cut travel time

By Drooid · Oct 3, 2026, 10:15 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Greens propose Stage Two rail works to cut Auckland-Tauranga travel time.
Stage Two adds $1.45 b, bringing total rail project cost to $4.02 b.
Green co-leader Marama Davidson says many New Zealanders lack frequent, affordable long-distance public transport.
Davidson blames rail privatisation for asset sales and a fragmented, declining network.
Transport spokeswoman Julie-Anne Genter urges using existing tracks, like the Waikato side of the Kaimai Tunnel.

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Story summary

Greens propose Stage Two rail works to cut Auckland-Tauranga travel time.
Stage Two adds $1.45 b, bringing total rail project cost to $4.02 b.
Green co-leader Marama Davidson says many New Zealanders lack frequent, affordable long-distance public transport.
Davidson blames rail privatisation for asset sales and a fragmented, declining network.
Transport spokeswoman Julie-Anne Genter urges using existing tracks, like the Waikato side of the Kaimai Tunnel.