A Historic Day: Auckland’s $5.5B City Rail Link Transforms NZ Travel

Auckland, New Zealand — Sunday, September 13, 2026, marks a historic day for New Zealand’s largest city. The long-awaited City Rail Link (CRL) officially opens to passengers, delivering the biggest transformation to Auckland’s rail network in generations.

The NZ$5.5 billion underground rail project features 3.45 kilometres of twin tunnels and three brand-new underground stations — Te Waihorotiu, Karanga-a-Hape, and Maungawhau. These stations are bored beneath the heart of central Auckland. For the first time in the city’s history, trains will run through the city centre rather than terminating at Waitematā. This change dramatically cuts cross-city journey times and boosts rail frequency across the entire network.

Transport Minister Chris Bishop called it “New Zealand’s biggest, and perhaps most challenging, transport project completed to date,” while CRL Ltd chairperson John Bridgman described it as “the biggest transport transformation in Auckland since the Harbour Bridge.” Construction began as far back as 2016, making today’s opening the culmination of a decade of disruption and anticipation for Aucklanders.

A special inaugural timetable is in effect today, with extra trains running across all lines until 3 PM, including early-morning services from 5:22 AM. The CRL is expected to significantly boost Auckland’s appeal as a visitor destination, with improved connectivity to commercial districts, event venues, and key city neighbourhoods. Thousands of curious locals and tourists are expected to ride the new network throughout the day.

Source: OurAuckland – A Defining Moment for Auckland as City Rail Link Opens