Wairarapa Line updates

Disruptions & Detours Staff & Operators

Rail services resume

A full timetable of rail services is running on the Wairarapa Line, after several off-peak services were bus replaced due to a shortage of qualified train managers earlier this year. These rail services resumed on Monday 4 August.

Snapper card refunds that were temporarily given for the affected services no longer apply. 

Transdev are continuing to train new staff for a full team of 13 train managers by September, with recruitment underway for the next intake.

Metlink and Transdev thank Wairarapa passengers for their patience during this time. 

Air quality testing

Starting Tuesday 29 July, KiwiRail and Metlink are carrying out air quality testing on Wairarapa trains to monitor dust levels and look for any contaminants. Monitoring is done through an air sampling device worn by staff – you may notice some train managers wearing a small backpack. For more information, visit the KiwiRail website(external link).

Wairarapa Line weekly update | 27 August 2025

The reliability of Wairarapa Line rail services is an ongoing concern for passengers, and a priority for Metlink and rail partners. In response, Metlink will share regular situation reports, explaining factors affecting Wairarapa trains and upcoming impacts to services.

Greater Wellington regional councillors, Metlink, its rail operator Transdev Wellington and KiwiRail understand the frustration caused by recent delays on the Wairarapa Line, and we want to assure our passengers that we are committed to restoring the reliability of train services as soon as possible.

Contractual agreements

Metlink and Transdev Wellington’s Rail Partnering Contract is designed to deliver a sustainable transport model with an expectation of quality service for passengers, and a commitment to run scheduled services by train or bus replacement, as required. The contract is in place until 2031 and is not currently under review. To view the Transdev contract, visit Greater Wellington — Public transport contracts.(external link)