<p>An independent review of maintenance and management on Tranz Rail’s track network has found that it is "fit for purpose".</p> <p>The study was carried out for New Zealand’s Land Transport Safety Authority by rail consultants Halliburton KBR.</p> <p>It said that Tranz Rail’s asset replacement program "appears to be providing an overall improvement in the average age and condition of assets and of the network generally". </p> <p>However, the report also found that some parts of the network lack the right support and are operating close to their practical limits.</p> <p>Specific areas identified where safety could be improved were management of continuous welded rail and overloading of rail wagons. </p> <p>Tranz Rail chief executive Michael Beard said action in these areas is already being taken, including new measuring equipment for continuously welded rail. </p> <br />
