KiwiRail teams have worked hard under challenging circumstances to successfully reopen the rail line between Picton and Christchurch following its closure last week due to damage caused by the bad weather.

The heavy rain had caused subsidence which in turn resulted in scouring by the Conway River beneath part of the Main North Line rail corridor between Cheviot and Kaikōura, forcing its closure. 

“Our staff have worked extra hard to shore up the line, allowing freight services to resume from 2pm today (Tuesday). I thank them for their great team effort,” Chief Infrastructure Officer Siva Sivapakkiam says. 

“Safety is paramount and a test train travelled over the track, confirming it was ready to go. In addition, monitoring systems have been installed.

“Some speed restrictions will be in place while work to further strengthen the line is carried out.”

Mr Sivapakkiam says that although the Conway River site required the most work, last week’s weather affected 42 sites on the line in total. Work on some of those sites is continuing, but does not affect the re-opening, and the majority have been completed.

“Re-opening the line quickly, especially while the road remains closed is a positive outcome for the South Island supply chain, and for KiwiRail’s role as an essential and valued part of New Zealand’s freight transport system.”