Rail exchange

Ports of Auckland operates the most sophisticated intermodal rail exchange in New Zealand.

Operations at the Auckland port rail exchange.

Operations at the Auckland port rail exchange.

A vital link in the inland transport and logistics chain, our four parallel rail lines – each 500 metres long – can accommodate 128 wagons at one time for loading and discharge of containers. Container exchange is facilitated by heavy lift machinery including straddle carriers and reach stackers.

Construction of a hardstand and rail exchange is currently underway to link the Freight Hub at Wiri to the Waitemata seaport. Night shuttles were operational from early 2010.

Currently, rail volumes represent 13.4% of Ports of Auckland’s total landside moves. With the introduction of a rail connection at Wiri, and other initiatives to promote rail uptake, we aim to increase the proportion to 30% over time.