KiwiRail’s Carterton Upgrades: Rail Safety & Hybrid-Electric

Carterton Level Crossing Upgrades Pave the Way for Hybrid-Electric Rail

As part of a significant infrastructure upgrade, KiwiRail is implementing crucial safety enhancements along the Wairarapa Line, signaling a transformative shift toward more efficient and sustainable rail operations. The project, set to culminate in 2029, is designed to accommodate the introduction of new hybrid-electric trains, promising faster and more frequent services. This undertaking involves the permanent closure of two level crossings in Carterton, specifically Victoria Street and Rhodes Street, alongside the installation of advanced safety features at other crossings. The closures will occur in stages, beginning with Victoria Street in mid-September, followed by Rhodes Street in November 2025. The primary driver for these modifications is to mitigate risks associated with increased train speeds and service frequency. The broader project includes comprehensive upgrades across the Wairarapa Line, ensuring a safer environment for both pedestrians and motorists, and facilitating future operational efficiency.

Level Crossing Closures and Pedestrianization

The most immediate changes involve the closure of two level crossings in Carterton, Victoria Street and Rhodes Street, to vehicular traffic. These crossings are being reconfigured to prioritize pedestrian safety. Instead of open road crossings, they will be converted into pedestrian-only crossings, equipped with protected walkways. These pathways will be secured with signals and gates, ensuring that pedestrians can only cross when the area is clear of approaching trains. This approach aims to create a safer environment by separating pedestrian movement from the risks associated with vehicular traffic and high-speed rail operations. The decisions to close these and other crossings were made following an independent regional safety report completed in early 2024. The project has closed or will close four crossings in total: Victoria and Rhodes in Carterton, and Bell and Brandon Streets in South Wairarapa.

Safety Upgrades: Enhancing Infrastructure

Beyond the closures, KiwiRail is actively upgrading safety measures at several other level crossings throughout Carterton. Work is currently underway at the Belvedere Road crossing and is scheduled to be completed by the end of July. Following this, the team will move to Pembroke Road, with an anticipated completion date in November. Civil works have already been completed at the Kent Street and Brooklyn Road crossings. These upgrades include the implementation of pedestrian mazes, designed to create a clear and protected path for pedestrians across railway tracks. The pedestrian mazes, combined with the eventual installation of a new signaling system, will greatly reduce the risk of accidents at crossings. The new signaling system, slated to be fully operational in early 2027, will activate pedestrian gates and vehicle barrier arms at every crossing.

Signaling and Operational Enhancements: The Backbone of Increased Efficiency

The introduction of the new signaling system in early 2027 is a critical component of the project. This system will integrate with the new hybrid-electric trains and will enhance the overall efficiency of the rail network. The upgrades will significantly improve the efficiency and speed of train operations. The new technology will ensure that all pedestrian gates and vehicle barrier arms function properly, bolstering safety across the network. This is expected to facilitate a smooth transition towards faster and more frequent services, increasing the capacity of the Wairarapa Line to meet growing demand.

Public Awareness and Safety Protocols

KiwiRail emphasizes the importance of public awareness and adherence to safety protocols at all level crossings. Program Director Andy Lyon reminds the public of the critical need to remain vigilant when approaching railway crossings, stressing the importance of “always look for trains, every crossing, every time.” This message underscores the critical role of individual responsibility in ensuring safety, complementing the infrastructural upgrades being implemented. The ongoing educational efforts and public awareness campaigns are aimed at instilling a culture of safety around rail operations, reducing the risk of incidents, and promoting a safe transition to faster and more frequent rail services.

Conclusion

The Carterton level crossing upgrades represent a key step towards modernizing the Wairarapa Line, preparing it for the arrival of new hybrid-electric trains in 2029. The closure of Victoria and Rhodes Streets to traffic, coupled with the comprehensive safety upgrades at other locations, showcases a proactive approach to mitigating risks associated with increased train speeds and service frequency. The introduction of the new signaling system in early 2027 is a crucial element that will significantly enhance the safety and efficiency of the network. The investment in safer crossings and signaling technology underlines KiwiRail’s commitment to creating a robust and reliable rail system that can meet future transportation demands. This project not only improves safety for the public but also lays the groundwork for enhanced operational efficiency, contributing to a more sustainable and passenger-friendly rail experience. This proactive approach highlights a commitment to long-term investment and a focus on the safety of both passengers and the wider community.