New Tūhono trains to supercharge regional passenger rail and strengthen Lower North Island economic connections

The Wellington Regional Leadership Committee (WRLC) has welcomed today’s announcement of 18 new battery-electric trains for the Lower North Island, calling it a transformative step for regional connectivity and resilience.

WRLC Chair Darrin Apanui says the new Tūhono fleet will unlock faster, more frequent, and more reliable services across the Wairarapa and Manawatū lines—connecting communities from Masterton and Palmerston North through to Wellington and the wider region.

“This is a game-changer for the Lower North Island,” says Mr Apanui. 

“The new Tūhono trains will run on our existing rail infrastructure, making them a smart and efficient way to strengthen regional links, reduce emissions, and support the development of thriving hubs along the rail corridor.”

The WRLC, which brings together councils, iwi, and central government agencies to address region-wide challenges, unanimously supported the investment and advocated strongly for the project.

“This is exactly the kind of initiative that no single council or agency can deliver alone,” Mr Apanui says.

“It’s about working together to tackle shared issues—like housing, infrastructure resilience, and climate adaptation—while unlocking economic and employment opportunities across the region.”

The Tūhono trains will double peak-time services, while also introducing more off-peak and weekend options - significantly improving travel choice and reliability for metro and inter-regional passengers alike.

The WRLC sees the investment as a catalyst for broader regional development, with improved rail services expected to support growth in key centres such as Levin, Masterton, and Palmerston North.

“Better rail means better access to jobs, education, and services—and it helps us build a more connected, sustainable future for everyone in the Lower North Island,” says Mr Apanui.

The Government is funding 92% of the $802.9 million project, with the remainder contributed by Greater Wellington and Horizons regional councils. The new trains are expected to begin arriving in 2028, with expanded services rolling out from 2030.

For more information, including Tūhono pictures and animation, visit the North Island Rail Connection page on Metlink.