Greater Wellington announces train maintenance depot investment in Masterton

Greater Wellington is proud to announce a major investment in Wairarapa’s rail future with the construction of a new train maintenance depot in Masterton, as part of its Lower North Island Rail Integrated Mobility (LNIRIM) programme.

Calder Stewart Construction has been awarded the contract for the detail design and construction, and the new depot will be located on Akura Road, adjacent to the new stabling tracks on land leased from KiwiRail.

The new depot will support the upkeep of the Tūhono train units, ensuring the world-class maintenance capability provided by Alstom Australia and New Zealand will happen close to where the trains operate. The investment will create local jobs, strengthen regional connectivity, and deliver long-term economic benefits for Masterton, wider Wairarapa, Wellington and beyond.

Councillor Daran Ponter, Chair of Greater Wellington says this is a significant milestone for the LNIRIM project and something that Deputy Chair Adrienne Staples had championed for the Wairarapa before her sudden recent passing. 

“Adrienne was clear that it was about more than trains – that it was about building local resilience, opportunity, and confidence in public transport for generations to come.

“Locating maintenance facilities in Masterton means we can keep the Tūhono units running efficiently while creating skilled jobs and supporting the local economy," says Cr Ponter.

Councillor Ros Connelly, Chair of Greater Wellington’s Public Transport Committee, says the project is a great example of collaboration between local stakeholders and central government to deliver infrastructure that matters. 

“It’s exciting to see this level of investment in Wairarapa and this level of investment in Public Transport for the region and its neighbours." 

"The depot is a practical solution that benefits both commuters and the region. Having a dedicated maintenance facility in Masterton will be a game-changer for reliability and service quality," says Cr Connelly.

Bex Johnson, Mayor of Masterton, welcomed the investment for her community.

“Building and housing the depot here in Masterton is great a great outcome for Masterton and the people that live and work here. We are also looking forward to when the Tūhono trains roll out, connecting more people than ever to Masterton,” says Mayor Johnson.

Pascal Dupond, Managing Director of Alstom Australia and New Zealand, says he is looking forward to bringing Alstom’s maintenance expertise to New Zealand.

“As the manufacturer and maintainer of the Tūhono fleet , operating this purpose-built facility will enable our delivery of cutting-edge train maintenance technologies and knowhow to ensure fleet reliability and availability,” says Mr Dupond.

Herman van Herel, General Manager – Construction for Calder Stewart, says his team are looking forward to delivering such an important and modern facility.

“We’re proud to be delivering a facility that meets world-class standards and creates opportunities for local contractors and suppliers,” adds Mr van Herel.

Construction is expected to begin later this year, with the facility operational in time to support the rollout of the new Tūhono trains.