Auckland’s upgraded Pukekohe Station has opened this week, with bus stops now linked with the existing rail platforms, and with better connections to the local roads and footpaths.
Auckland’s Major Phil Goff, who opened the station alongside transport minister Phil Twyford, said the $16.2 million upgrade was a step towards the integrated and better-connected transport system envisioned for the city by Auckland Council and Auckland Transport.
“The improved links between buses and trains makes public transport more efficient and improves choices in the south of Auckland. This also makes it easier for people to move around our region without adding to congestion,” Goff said.
“This upgrade is a vision of what’s to come as we transform Auckland’s transport system, with $28 billion worth of investment planned across our region over the next 10 years, including billions for south Auckland.”
The upgrade also included the construction of a new 87-space carpark, cycle parking facilities, covered areas for passengers, additional ticketing machines, public toilets, and a new 24-hour CCTV security system with improved lighting.
Auckland Transport chairman Lester Levy said that the upgrade future-proofed the station, with population growth expected in the area and plans to electrify the line to Papakura in the works.
“We are working hard to provide a well-connected Rapid Transport Network for the south. This upgrade is a first step towards achieving that goal,” Levy said.
“The station will be at the heart of the new public transport network for the area. Bus and train transport hubs like this allow people to transfer seamlessly, improving their journey and travel experience”.