RailNZ 25: Shaping NZ’s Rail Future in Auckland

New Zealand Rail Industry Gears Up for RailNZ 25 Conference in Auckland

The upcoming RailNZ 25 conference, hosted by the Australasian Railway Association (ARA), promises to be a pivotal event for the New Zealand rail industry. Scheduled for May 29th in Auckland, the conference will bring together key leaders from across the rail sector, government officials, and industry experts. This gathering aims to address critical issues, share best practices, and shape the future of rail transport in New Zealand. The conference will feature prominent speakers, including senior executives from KiwiRail, Auckland One Rail, Auckland Transport, Waka Kotahi, and Transdev Wellington, along with addresses from the Deputy Prime Minister. The agenda is packed with insightful discussions on a range of topics, from rail safety and workforce development to the evolving rail freight landscape. RailNZ 25 offers a unique platform for stakeholders to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and strategize for a more sustainable and efficient rail network, reflecting the growing importance of rail in New Zealand’s economic and environmental future.

New Zealand, May 29, 2024

**Setting the Stage: The Importance of RailNZ 25**

The RailNZ 25 conference serves as a crucial platform for the New Zealand rail industry to converge, discuss challenges, and explore opportunities. The event is structured to foster collaboration between industry professionals, government representatives, and key stakeholders. The ARA, as the host, aims to facilitate a robust exchange of ideas, focusing on the critical role of rail in the nation’s economic development and sustainability. The conference’s structure, from the Young Rail Professionals Breakfast to the ARA Annual New Zealand Rail Industry Dinner, encourages networking and knowledge-sharing across all levels of the industry. The presence of high-profile speakers from major rail operators and government agencies highlights the importance of the topics to be discussed, including rail safety reform, the evolution of metro rail networks, and strategies for workforce development.

**Key Discussions: Addressing the Core Issues**

The core of RailNZ 25 will be centered on panel discussions and presentations addressing the most pressing issues facing the New Zealand rail sector. These discussions are designed to provide valuable insights into current trends, technologies, and developments.

• Customer perspectives on the rail freight landscape will be explored, focusing on optimizing efficiency and meeting the needs of businesses.
• Rail safety reform will be a priority, with discussions centered on implementing best practices and enhancing regulatory frameworks.
• Preparing for the City Rail Link project will be another critical topic.
• The challenges and opportunities for metro rail networks will be analyzed, taking into account growing urban populations and the need for effective public transport.
• Building the rail workforce of the future is also a core topic, addressing the skills required and strategies to attract and retain talent.

These discussions will offer an overview of current challenges and also serve as a platform for promoting innovation and strategic initiatives.

**Industry Leaders: Shaping the Future**

The conference will feature a lineup of high-profile speakers who are at the forefront of driving change in the rail sector. Keynote speakers will include Peter Reidy (Chief Executive Officer, KiwiRail), Gavin Panter (Chief Operating Officer, Auckland One Rail), Mike Hargreaves (Deputy Director Land Transport, Waka Kotahi), Tonia Haskell (Managing Director, Transdev Wellington), and Peter Lensink (Chief Operating Officer, Transdev). Their presentations will offer insights into their organizations’ strategic plans, ongoing projects, and vision for the future of rail in New Zealand. The involvement of these leaders underscores the conference’s importance in shaping industry direction and facilitating future progress. Participants will have opportunities to engage in direct discussions with senior management, enabling a deeper understanding of the industry’s strategic priorities.

**ARA’s Role: Advocacy and Engagement**

The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) plays a vital role in facilitating RailNZ 25. Caroline Wilkie, the ARA Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the ARA’s commitment to increasing engagement with both industry and government in New Zealand. The ARA actively advocates for improvements to the resilience and reliability of the rail network, as well as promoting its decarbonization and sustainability benefits. The conference provides an excellent chance for the ARA to further its objectives by sharing best practice experiences and discussing crucial topics such as rail safety and regulation. The ARA’s efforts are integral to shaping a sustainable future for rail in New Zealand.

**Conclusion: Paving the Way for a Sustainable Rail Future**

The RailNZ 25 conference represents a critical opportunity for the New Zealand rail industry to convene, collaborate, and chart a course toward a more efficient and sustainable future. The conference will delve into key issues such as safety enhancements, network expansion, and the development of a skilled workforce to support the growing needs of the industry. The participation of key leaders from KiwiRail, Auckland One Rail, Auckland Transport, Waka Kotahi, and Transdev Wellington, along with the ARA’s active engagement, signifies the industry’s commitment to innovation and progress. By offering a platform for knowledge sharing, strategic planning, and networking, RailNZ 25 is set to inspire collaborative efforts to modernize New Zealand’s rail infrastructure. It will foster discussions around key topics such as optimizing the rail freight landscape and ensuring robust safety standards. The conference is poised to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices, reduce environmental impact, and enhance the overall efficiency of rail transportation. The future of rail in New Zealand looks promising, driven by a shared vision of progress and sustainability.

**Summary of Relevant Companies**

• KiwiRail: The primary state-owned enterprise responsible for rail operations and infrastructure in New Zealand.
• Auckland One Rail: Responsible for the operation of Auckland’s commuter rail network.
• Auckland Transport: A council-controlled organization responsible for transportation in Auckland.
• Waka Kotahi: The New Zealand Transport Agency, a government agency responsible for land transport infrastructure and funding.
• Transdev Wellington: A company involved in the operation of rail and bus services in Wellington.
• Transdev: A global public transport operator, involved in various rail and bus projects.
• Australasian Railway Association (ARA): The peak body representing the rail industry in Australasia, organizing industry events such as RailNZ 25.