City Rail Link Ltd, its main contractor, Link Alliance, and telecommunications companies One NZ, Spark and 2degrees have begun installing the infrastructure that will bring both 4G and 5G high-speed mobile connectivity throughout the 3.45-kilometre-long CRL tunnels and at the new Te Waihorotiu, Karanga-a-Hape, and Maungawhau Stations.
City Rail Link Ltd’s Chief Executive Patrick Brockie said installing technology that allows high-speed communications connectivity is an important part of delivering a world class railway for Aucklanders.
“Not only will passengers get to new places faster, but they will also be able to stay in touch, stream, and access information while underground,” he said.
It is the first time the three mobile operators have collaborated to build a solution of this scale, ensuring continuous mobile coverage in the tunnels across their networks.
Besides keeping passengers connected, 5G also plays a vital safety role for the City Rail Link — helping protect people in the event of an underground incident.
“Connectivity underground is crucial for real-time train tracking, emergency communications, and integration of CRL with Auckland Transport systems that keep public transport running,” said Auckland Transport Chief Executive Dean Kimpton.
One NZ and CRL Ltd said installing underground mobile infrastructure is a complex technical task, requiring careful coordination with the wider fit outs of the CRL station and tunnel systems.
“Testing is complete, and our teams are now busy underground installing the system that will support modern urban transport and help Kiwis stay connected throughout their journeys.”
Although cell coverage above ground is widespread thanks to cell towers, establishing it underground poses significant challenges. Solid materials such as concrete, steel, and earth used to build the CRL make it harder to provide consistent wireless connections.
