Aucklanders are marking the beginning of a new era, with the opening of the City Rail Link (CRL) this weekend.
The 3.45km twin-tunnels underground and new stations - Te Waihorotiu, Karanga-a-Hape and Maungawhau - are set to transform Auckland’s rail network, improving cross-city connections and unlocking new opportunities for growth.
As a 50 per cent funding partner in the project, Auckland Council will continue to measure the benefits realised by the new network, including improved journey times, better connectivity, economic growth and environmental outcomes.
Mayor of Auckland Wayne Brown and Minister of Transport Chris Bishop.
Mayor Wayne Brown says it’s time for Aucklanders to get on board.
“The City Rail Link is a transformational investment for Auckland. It's a game changer for our city that will benefit generations to come,” says Mayor Brown.
“Aucklanders can look forward to more travel options and a better-connected rail network, making it easier to move across the city. Public transport will be simpler, more convenient and more accessible for more people.”
Mayor Brown says the benefits for the region are far-reaching.
“The value of this project will be felt every day. Whether you're heading to work, school, Eden Park or K' Road for a meal, the new network will make getting around Auckland faster and easier. It will also provide tangible economic benefits.
“I encourage Aucklanders to get on board, literally, and make the most of this significant investment in our city's future,” he says.
Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson with new artwork Wāhine welcoming passengers.
Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson says the project is a lot more than a public transport project; it’s a celebration of the public space that the Auckland Council group and CRL Limited have unlocked in the new station precincts around the rail corridor.
"We have delivered pedestrian spaces and cycleways encouraging active modes like walking and cycling, trees, public art and te ao Māori narratives in these exciting, purpose-designed station precincts, making our city unique in the world."
She says three big urban regeneration projects – downtown, midtown and Karangahape Road - reflect years of collaboration between the council, mana whenua, artists, urban designers, delivery partners and many others.
"We have created beautiful places where te ao Māori narratives are visible and embedded, where history is acknowledged and carried forward, and where people feel a sense of belonging.
“We are building a city that tells its stories with confidence," she says.
Councillor Andy Baker at Te Waihorotiu Station.
Chair of the Transport and Infrastructure Delivery Committee, Councillor Andy Baker, describes the project as a new chapter for Auckland.
"This wouldn’t have happened without the courage and persistence of those who had the vision in the early days, and then those who worked so hard, at whatever level, to deliver what we have today. For Auckland it's a transport masterstroke that changes our rapid transit system, and will also reshape our city.
“It is the beginning of a promising new chapter for Auckland and gives us something to be really proud of, particularly those who have been part of the project.
"We know greater public transport frequency enabled by the CRL is the key to unlocking the city - its economy, prosperity, productivity, labour market, tourism, innovation and investment, for example. It is such a big thing for Auckland on many fronts. Now we just need to enjoy it and get the most out of it,” he says.
Councillor Richard Hlls and Zaelene Maxwell-Butler with new artwork Wāhine.
For Councillor Richard Hills, Chair of the Policy, Planning and Development Committee, the opening represents a significant step forward in the city’s sustainability journey too.
"With our all-electric trains arriving more often, more than 400 electric buses, ever-expanding frequent bus network, new cycleways and pedestrian friendly spaces, Aucklanders will be travelling in great numbers in a far more connected environmentally friendly way.
“This all means the air we breathe will continue to improve, emissions will reduce and Auckland will continue to pick up the pace as we strive to become a more sustainable city.
"The City Rail Link has also become an international example of embedding indigenous knowledge, cultural identity and public art into major infrastructure delivery, with mana whenua being lead partners throughout.
"Every station and its neighbourhood tells a unique cultural story reflecting the history, identity and significance of its location within Tāmaki Makaurau," he says.
As Auckland enters the next phase in its rapid transit journey, the opening of the City Rail Link on Sunday 13 September 2026 ushers in a more connected, productive, sustainable and accessible future for New Zealand's largest city.