Get the Train

Final numbers for train; link to ODT story

2010-09-26T11:17:00.001+13:00

Final numbers for the train: 170 inbound in the morning (in spite of
snowy conditions: brrrrr!); 275ish outbound for the evening service.
Cash surplus! How do you think we should spend it? - please add your
comments...

ODT story: http://www.odt.co.nz/your-town/waitati/127646/commuters-swap-cars-train

Thank you for getting the train!!!

2010-09-22T20:14:00.000+12:00

Hi

Thank you to all you marvellous people for coming out in the snowy weather to catch the train today!!

It was a resounding success, people got out of their cars and the schools had a great down in town.

It was wonderful to see all the North Coast communities 'training" together to town!

Kind regards

Danielle Cameron
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from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Channel 9 news story

2010-09-21T10:38:00.001+12:00

http://www.ch9.co.nz/content/world-car-free-day-returning

ODT story

2010-09-14T13:32:00.001+12:00

http://www.odt.co.nz/elections-2010/dunedin-city-council/126273/commuters-challenge-mayoral-candidates

Twilight train excursion to Waitati

2010-09-14T10:11:00.001+12:00

Dunedin residents will have a chance to enjoy a twilight rail
excursion on Wednesday 22 September when Get the Train charters the
Taieri Gorge Railway excursion train to Waitati and back.

The twilight excursion will run to Waitati from Dunedin, from 5.45 to
8.40, allowing a 45-minute stopover in Waitati. Enough time to buy a
fresh cup of coffee and take a walk around the village.

TIMETABLE: Depart Dunedin 5.45pm, Maia 5.55pm, Sawyers Bay 5.50pm,
Port Chalmers Upper 6.00pm, Mihiwaka 6.15pm, Purakaunui 6:17pm,
Osborne 6.20pm, Michies Crossing 6.25pm, Waitati ARRIVE 6.30pm

After a 45 minute stayover, return trip departs for Dunedin 7.30pm,
arriving 8.10pm.

The cash return fare is $10 and bookings are not required.

Car Free Day - train ride to town and back

2010-09-12T22:03:00.000+12:00

Hello all train people!

We are gearing up for Car Free Day and the train ride to town!

We have been granted all the funds we applied for and are very grateful to Otago Community Trust, DCC Small Grants fund, Waikouaiti Coast Community Board and Chalmers Community Board for supporting the commuter train for Car Free Day.

Now all we have to do is fill the train on 22 September! Warrington School are having a day out in town. Waitati, Purakanui and Port Chalmers Schools are going to Opoho School for a visit; they are another Enviro School.

We have invited the Mayoral candidates to meet the train and give us their views on public transport. This is our chance to show Dunedin that the North Coast wants a train and that there are lots of people who will use it.

Thank you all for your support and we'll see you on the train!

Timetable as follows:

Leaves from Waitati:

7.40 Waitati
7.45 Michies Crossing
7.50 Osbourne
7.55 Purakanui
8.00 Mihiwaka
8.10 Upper Port Chalmers
8.15 Sawyers Bay
8.25 Maia
8.40 Dunedin

Leaves Dunedin at 5.45 ..... Arrives Waitati 6.30.

If you need any more details ... please ring Danielle on 482 1233

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from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Media advisory: Get the Train organises commuter train for World Car-Free Day, 22 September

2010-09-10T09:58:00.001+12:00

Media advisory: Get the Train organises commuter train for World
Car-Free Day, 22 September

Main points:

* morning and evening workers' train for Waitati, Port Chalmers and
other townships
* chance of an evening excursion for Dunedin residents

Detail:

'Get the Train' has booked the Taieri Gorge train to run as a commuter
service on 22 September from Waitati via Port Chalmers to Dunedin in
the morning - returning from in the evening.

An extra feature this year will be the chance for a twilight excursion
to Waitati from Dunedin, from 5.45 to 8.40, allowing a 45-minute
stopover in Waitati. A similar trip may be made by 'early birds',
departing Dunedin at 6.40 on the outward empty train.

The schedule will mean that the morning train will arrive at Dunedin
at approximately 8.40am.

We are inviting all Mayoral candidates to meet us off the train on
that day and asking them all to give us the gist of their position on
public transport in and around Dunedin in a succinct 60 seconds. Yes,
we will time each contribution and give them a warning bell at 50
seconds.

While we haven't told them this - we will also be rewarding them for
their efforts. In preparation are a number of 'Mayoral Trains' which
will be hung around the necks of participants if they can deliver
within their 60 seconds.

The aim of local rail and public transport advocacy group ius to "keep
the rails shiny" - to promote the idea of rail travel as an option for
developing Otago's transport needs for people and goods. We believe
that a daily train service on this route could be viable within one or
two decades as oil prices continue to increase.

We acknowledge the assistance of Community Trust of Otago, Dunedin
City Council Small Grants Fund, Waikouaiti Coast Community Board and
Chalmers Community Board for financial support for this venture.

CONTACTS

Danielle Cameron
Get the Train
4821233

Ross Johnston
Get the Train
jpl @ callsouth.net.nz

Peter Dowden
Get the Train
03 4822441 or 021 137 2129
peter.dowden @ gmail.com

TIMETABLE

(Outward train departs Dunedin 6.40am, arriving Waitati 7.20am. The
public may travel on this service)

COMMUTER TRAIN DEPART Waitati 7.40am, Michies Crossing 7.45am, Osborne
7.55am, Purakaunui 8.00am, Mihiwaka 8.05am, Port Chalmers Upper
8.10am, Sawyers Bay 8.15am, Maia 8.25am, ARRIVE Dunedin 8.40am

COMMUTER TRAIN DEPART Dunedin 5.45pm, Maia 5.55pm, Sawyers Bay 5.50pm,
Port Chalmers Upper 6.00pm, Mihiwaka 6.15pm, Purakaunui 6:17pm,
Osborne 6.20pm,

Michies Crossing 6.25pm, Waitati ARRIVE 6.30pm

(After a 45 minute stayover, return trip departs for Dunedin 7.30pm,
arriving 8.10pm)

CAR FREE DAY COMMUTER TRAIN updated timetable

2010-09-09T10:02:00.001+12:00

This is the very latest train timetable, thanks to Grant Craig for
providing the updated times.

Please note the slightly later evening departure from Dunedin and the
availability of travel on the 'empty' trips before and after the
commute. Ideal for those wanting a dawn or evening excursion. The
train will spend about 45 minutes at Waitati on the evening run, this
is to coordinate with a freight train going the other way.

We look forward to seeing you all on the train.

Peter Dowden
Get the Train

Timetable:

(Outward train departs Dunedin 6.40am, arriving Waitati 7.20am. The
public may travel on this service)

COMMUTER TRAIN DEPART Waitati 7.40am, Michies Crossing 7.45am, Osborne
7.55am, Purakaunui 8.00am, Mihiwaka 8.05am, Port Chalmers Upper
8.10am, Sawyers Bay 8.15am, Maia 8.25am, ARRIVE Dunedin 8.40am
...

COMMUTER TRAIN DEPART Dunedin 5.45pm, Maia 5.55pm, Sawyers Bay 5.50pm,
Port Chalmers Upper 6.00pm, Mihiwaka 6.15pm, Purakaunui 6:17pm,
Osborne 6.20pm,

Michies Crossing 6.25pm, Waitati ARRIVE 6.30pm

(After a 45 minute stayover, return trip departs for Dunedin 7.30pm,
arriving 8.10pm)

--
--
Peter Dowden
26 Park Rd, Warrington, Otago 9449
+64-3-482 2441 (mornings only)
+64 21 137 2129 (mobile; occasionally switched on!)

Vote for public transport, Dunedin (follow the link):
http://www.causes.com/causes/521089?m=5068e905

Car Free Day ... 22 September 2010

2010-08-06T20:51:00.001+12:00

Get The Train is chartering the Taieri Gorge train for Car Free Day on 22 September 2010.

We are fundraising to do so! The Otago Community Trust have given us $500 and we need another $1,250. We are applying to the DCC Small Grants fund, to Waikouaiti Coast Community Board and to Port Chalmers Community Board for funding also.

So far 4 North Coast schools are doing their best to organise a day out on the train! Congratulations to them!

The more people on the train, the less fundraising needs to be done! So can everybody tell everybody about the day and do your best to be on the train!

Timing similar to last time, but more detail out later.

Thank you so much!
Danielle

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from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Another Train Update

2010-05-13T20:34:00.000+12:00

Hi Everybody

We are still trying to attract funding for a commuter train for Car Free Day. The DCC can't do it but the Transportation Planning Dept have given $2000 towards a feasibility study for a train. We will meet with Sarah from the DCC Transport Planning Dept in June. This is wonderful news and a real step forward for the train. If anybody would like to be involved, please ring Danielle on 482 1233.

Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust has agreed to be the umbrella organisation for Get The Train and we thank them very much for welcoming us into the fold!

So we will continue to search for funding for Car Free Day.

If anybody has relevant material or data that may contribute to a feasibility study, could you call Danielle on 482 1233.

Thankyou (You'll see that I caught the post this time!)

Danielle

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from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Train update

2010-04-29T22:07:00.000+12:00

This was meant to go to the post a couple of weeks ago, sorry:

The Walk2Work train was a resounding success with 235 people catching it into Dunedin and 155 home. Thank you everybody for supporting it.

Now we would like a train for Car Free Day 22 Sept 2010!! We need to get funding from the NZ Land Transport Authority for this.

We had a meeting with Charlotte Flaherty from the DCC, Grant and Lynette from Taieri Gorge who have been amazing organising the Walk2Work train. We talked about doing our own feasibilty study for a train, developing a relationship with KiwiRail, organising continuing Walk2Work and Car Free day trains, or maybe combining one of these with the suburban rail day, fixing up stations along the route (Port Chalmers have a wonderful sign at Upper Port Chalmers station now) maybe we can put signs at the other stations. We also talked about writing to MP's for support.

If anybody would like to help out writing letters and coming to meetings please call me - Danielle: 482 1233.

There is a review of the Regional Land Transport Strategy, for the next 30 years, going on now. Submissions will be called for later this year by the ORC. The Regional Public Transport Plan will be reviewed next year!

So a bit to think about!

Best wishes,

Danielle

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from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

235 commuters take the morning train

2010-03-10T12:35:00.001+13:00

235 commuters take the morning train

by 'Blueskin News' editors

At least two hundred and thirty-five commuters caught the morning
train from Waitati and Port Chalmers to Dunedin this Wednesday morning
in a one-day revival of rail commuting organised by the Dunedin City
Council, Taieri Gorge Railway and rail transport advocate group Get
the Train.

Final passenger numbers were still to be calculated from ticket sales,
train staff said.

Several children used the train to travel to Purakanui School, Port
Chalmers School and Dunedin Rudolf Steiner School (at Maia), while the
train was also popular with pupils of several Dunedin high schools.

Those arriving late to school were able to use the the train as an
excuse, because the outward empty trip from Dunedin was delayed by
Wellington train control, according to train staff.

There will be a return trip from Dunedin to the coastal towns this
evening, departing at 5.30pm.

GET THE TRAIN (column): Remember the train on 10 March

2010-02-23T10:00:00.001+13:00

Photo: Passengers on one of last year's commuter trains.

GET THE TRAIN (column): Remember the train on 10 March

by Get the Train Group and Peter Dowden

The 'Walk2Work week' commuter train is just under two weeks away, on
Wednesday 10th March. This is our chance to show that Dunedin's North
Coast communities want a train service, so make it a day, and please
pass the word on.

No bookings required, and the fare is just $5 cash each way on the
train. Bike compartment available (please help each other to load
bikes and board the train promptly; it is running to a very tight
schedule).

Timetable

Waitati dep 7.40am

Michies Crossing 7.45am

Osborne 7.55am

Purakaunui 8.00am

Mihiwaka 8.05am

Port Chalmers Upper 8.10am

Sawyers Bay 8.15am

Maia 8.25am

Dunedin arr 8.40am

Dunedin dep 5.30pm

Maia 5.40pm

Sawyers Bay 5.50pm

Port Chalmers Upper 6.00pm

Mihiwaka 6.15pm

Purakaunui 6:17pm

Osborne 6.20pm

Michies Crossing 6.25pm

Waitati arr 6.30pm

Get the Train Group is campaigning for safe, efficient regional train
services for Otago. More about Get the Train: getthetrain.blogspot.com

Remember the train!

2010-02-22T21:08:00.001+13:00

Hi Everyone

Walk 2 work week with the commuter train is just over 2 weeks away, Wednesday 10th March. This is our chance to show that North Coast Dunedin wants a train, make it a day, and please pass the word, send this email on.

No bookings required, $5 cash each way on the train. Bike compartment available.

Timetable as follows:

Waitati dep 7.40am
Michies Crossing 7.45am
Osborne 7.55am

Purakaunui 8.00am
Mihiwaka 8.05am
Port Chalmers Upper 8.10am
Sawyers Bay 8.15am
Maia 8.25am
Dunedin arr 8.40am

Dunedin dep 5.30pm
Maia 5.40pm
Sawyers Bay 5.50pm
Port Chalmers Upper 6.00pm
Mihiwaka 6.15pm

Purakaunui 6:17pm
Osborne 6.20pm
Michies Crossing 6.25pm
Waitati arr 6.30pm

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from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Get the train to work on 10 March (Waitati ad)

2010-02-22T20:22:00.001+13:00

Wednesday 10th March

Get the train to work from Waitati at 7.40am or Michies Crossing at
7.45am – then stop off at the Octagon for:

• Free breakfast

• Entertainment

• Guest Speakers

• Information Stalls

Go to www.walk2work.org.nz to make a walking pledge, enter our
competitions and find out what else is happening.

All aboard the March Commuter Train

2010-01-23T11:43:00.001+13:00

All aboard the March Commuter Train

by the editors

The rail transport advocate group 'Get the Train' is planning another
one-day-only Waitati-Dunedin-Waitati commuter train service during
Walk 2 Work Week next month, on March 10, spokesperson Danielle
Cameron told 'Blueskin News'.

"We really want to pack this train out so put it in your diaries now
and tell people."

The group was having a meeting at the end of January to organise the
train service, Danielle said. The service would be operated by Taieri
Gorge Railway with the help of Dunedin City Council.

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--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

March Commuter Train

2009-12-18T12:47:00.001+13:00

Hi Everyone

This is an early, early, notice that there will be another commuter train in Walk 2 Work week next year on March 10th. We really want to pack this train out so put it in your diaries now, send this email on, and tell people.

We will be having a meeting at the end of January to organise publicity for this, let us know if you're interested in helping out.

Best wishes for your summer,

Get the Train group

--
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from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Train update

2009-12-02T13:30:00.000+13:00

Hi Everybody -

I guess it's time to build momentum for the train! The ORC says rail is Central Govenment's responsibility - that may not necessarily be so. We've decided to write a letter to the ORC in answer to this.

We will also start to work at getting transport policy from all political parties, network with Taieri Gorge, Hillside, DCC and Sustainable Dunedin and generally keep the pot boiling and raise a head of steam as far as trains go.

We will organise a meeting in early February to see how we're going. We just have to keep pushing!

Regards, Danielle

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from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Story from Otago Daily Times Online

2009-09-23T12:37:00.001+12:00

------------------------------------------------------------
People ride train to work on Car Free Day [1]
------------------------------------------------------------
[2]

Rain may have put many people off walking or biking to work yesterday, but 100
delighted and dry passengers took a Taieri Gorge Railway train into Dunedin for
World Car Free Day.

[1] http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/75006/people-ride-train-work-car-free-day
[2] http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/75006/people-ride-train-work-car-free-day

Commuters take the train to work

2009-09-23T12:27:00.001+12:00

Photos by Magda Buchholz of the commuter train journey from Waitati to
Dunedin on World Car-free Day, Tuesday 22 September 2009.

1: Nancy Higgins of Warrington enjoys a coffee at Waitati Station.

2: The Waitati School PTA coffee stall, with Nicky Clarke and Sasha
Burnside-Woods (9).

3: Waitati acting Stationmaster Mandy Mayhem assisted by her son Max.

5: Mayor of Dunedin Peter Chin receives a bouquet from Danielle
Cameron of Get the Train. The flowers were gathered from passengers
and were presented in gradtitude to the council for organising the
train service.

--
--
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Half-million rail project

2009-09-22T14:19:00.001+12:00

Photos by Rozalina Stoyanova: The resleepering project alongside State
Highway 1 at Blueskin Bay, and a close-up view of a track machine.

Half-million rail project

By 'Blueskin News' reporter Rozalina MacLeod

Ontrack, a subsidiary of Kiwirail, had nearly 60 men working on a two-day
maintenance project alongside Blueskin Bay on 18-19 September.

Robert Storm, a field engineer for renewals at Ontrack, told 'Blueskin
News' the sleeper laying project at Waitati was part of this year's
programmed work and cost over $500,000.

"Preparatory work started about 2 weeks ago and all work is expected
to be completed by mid October," Robert said. "We have now replaced
all the sleepers in this section but we still need to complete ballast
reconditioning and final track lifting and smoothing."

The job started at the track points at Waitati, where trains pass one
another, and the main line was resleepered with new concrete sleepers
for 2km towards Evansdale.

"Timber sleepers have a finite life and most of those in this area
were worn out or had suffered damage following a derailment a couple of
years ago," Robert explained. "Once completed this section of track
should be maintenance free for many years."

Hard work means hungry workers. Robert received many favourable
comments on the hearty lunches supplied through a reputable Waitati
eatery.

As 'Blueskin News' went to press, Ontrack were planning to work on a
1.5km section of track just north of Seacliff in the last weekend of
September.

Catch the Train on Car-Free Day, Tuesday 22 September: Final details; a Bouquet to DCC; more trains the following week

2009-09-18T10:17:00.001+12:00

The Commuter Train for Car Free Day provided by Dunedin City Council and Taieri Gorge Railway and promoted by Get the Train is running on schedule, departing Tuesday 22 September from Waitati at 7.30 and Sawyers Bay at 8.15.

Get the Train would like all Passengers to please bring a small bunch of flowers from your garden: this is to give a huge Bouquet to the Dunedin City Council for their support of Car Free Day. The Bouquet will be presented to the Council after the train arrives in Dunedin at 8.30am.

Taieri Gorge Railway will also operate more trains the following week: to Waitati and Port Chalmers on Wednesday 30 September 2009.

Approximate Timetable:

Dunedin dep 0905
Waitati arr 0945

Waitati dep 1000
Port Chalmers arr 1025
Port Chalmers dep 1045
Dunedin arr 1105

Dunedin dep 1135
Mosgiel arr 1155

Mosgiel dep 1210
Dunedin arr 1230

Dunedin dep 1305
Waitati arr 1345

Waitati dep 1415
Port Chalmers arr 1440
Port Chalmers dep 1500
Dunedin arr 1520

Dunedin dep 1550
Mosgiel arr 1610

Mosgiel dep 1630
Dunedin arr 1650

Bookings:
Ph 477 4449

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from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Commuter train timetable

2009-09-14T16:32:00.001+12:00

You will have all heard about the train by now, here is the confirmed timetable which is a little different: leaving Waitati 7:30am and Dunedin 5:30pm

Tuesday 22nd Sept
Last time was a gorgeous misty silvery mix of community and our beautiful coastline, lets enjoy it again

Please forward this on to anyone else who might catch the train,
Thanks, Kaia

Fwd: Catch the train on Car-Free Day

2009-09-08T17:08:00.001+12:00

Dear Get the Train supporter,

There will be another Waitati/Dunedin/Waitati commuter train service on22 September. Full details in the DCC/TGR/GtT press release below.

There will also be another school holiday suburban train day on 30 September (not so suitable for commuters). Details of this to be announced later.

Please let us know if you don't enjoy receiving thse emails from Get the Train, and we'll remove you from our list.

Peter

Catch the train on Car-Free Day

Dunedin (Tuesday, 8 September) - Thousands of people will be taking to the streets in cities around the globe on Tuesday, 22 September to celebrate the annual World Car-Free Day.

In line with its sustainability vision and principles, the DCC are
supporting the day, both in-house with a competition for staff, and
city-wide by chartering a commuter train from Taieri Gorge Railway for the Waitati/Dunedin route.

The DCC are keen to encourage people to use alternatives to the
private car, such as walking, cycling and using public transport,
because this can bring many environmental benefits, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions that arise from burning fossil fuels, improving air quality locally, reducing noise levels, improving safety
for other road users, and resulting in a more pleasant city
environment for everyone, as well as health benefits for the
individual.

The train is primarily aimed at commuters, although it is open to
anyone. It will depart from Waitati at 7.15am, calling at Michies
Crossing, Osbourne, Purakaunui, Mihiwaka, Sawyers Bay, and Maia on the
way, and arriving in Dunedin at 8.15am.

The return trip departs from Dunedin Railway Station at 5.45pm.
Tickets are $5 per person each way and can be booked from the Taieri Gorge Railway booking office on 477 4449.

Purakaunui/Waitati-based public transport advocacy group 'Get the
Train' will assist DCC and TGR in promoting the train service in the
rural area.

--
--
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

--
--------------------------

from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Catch the train on Car-Free Day

2009-09-08T15:41:00.000+12:00

Catch the train on Car-Free Day

Dunedin (Tuesday, 8 September) - Thousands of people will be taking to
the streets in cities around the globe on Tuesday, 22 September to
celebrate the annual World Car-Free Day.

In line with its sustainability vision and principles, the DCC are
supporting the day, both in-house with a competition for staff, and
city-wide by chartering a commuter train from Taieri Gorge Railway for
the Waitati/Dunedin route.

The DCC are keen to encourage people to use alternatives to the
private car, such as walking, cycling and using public transport,
because this can bring many environmental benefits, including reducing
greenhouse gas emissions that arise from burning fossil fuels,
improving air quality locally, reducing noise levels, improving safety
for other road users, and resulting in a more pleasant city
environment for everyone, as well as health benefits for the
individual.

The train is primarily aimed at commuters, although it is open to
anyone. It will depart from Waitati at 7.15am, calling at Michies
Crossing, Osbourne, Purakaunui, Mihiwaka, Sawyers Bay, and Maia on the
way, and arriving in Dunedin at 8.15am.

The return trip departs from Dunedin Railway Station at 5.45pm.
Tickets are $5 per person each way and can be booked from the Taieri
Gorge Railway booking office on 477 4449.

Purakaunui/Waitati-based public transport advocacy group 'Get the
Train' will assist DCC and TGR in promoting the train service in the
rural area.

ORC submission response

2009-07-21T18:45:00.001+12:00

Hello on this rainy night

The Otago Regional Council's response to our submission for a feasibility study on commuter rail in Dunedin is:

No they won't do a feasibility study because it is Central Government that look after rail infrastructure.

We are looking at approaching Central Government and thinking of having a meeting about this in September, if you have any thoughts about the next step or are keen to come to the meeting please be in touch.

Regards,

Kaia

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from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Blueskin News has forwarded a page to you from Channel 9 | Online

2009-07-16T11:25:00.001+12:00

Blueskin News thought you would like to see this page from the Channel 9 | Online web site.

Message from Sender:

Hustle and bustle returns to Dunedin Railway Station

300 People Take A Return Trip To Waitati From Dunedin
by timj

Another indication that city residents find trains to be a popular form of travel was made today, as almost 300 people took a return trip to Waitati from Dunedin.

While commuters north of Dunedin have shown interest in reinstating a morning and evening commuters train, it appears the Regional Council are not as keen.

Click here to read more on our site

Holiday one day train

2009-07-12T19:12:00.001+12:00

Hi everyone

There is a train for a day on this coming Wednesday, 15th July.

It leaves Waitati at 10:35 arrives Dunedin 11:30 (the train continues on through to Mosgiel but I don't have the times for that)

Leaves Dunedin 2:10 arrives Waitati 3

Leaves Waitati 3:15

The fare is $10, (this needs to be paid in cash on the train) if you want to get on at any of the smaller stations ring and book 477 4449

Pass the word on and I hope you can enjoy it

Kaia

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from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

2009-07-12T11:00:00.001+12:00

Taieri Gorge Railway is running Suburban Trains all day on Wednesday
15 July from 8.20am, with services between Dunedin, Mosgiel, Port
Chalmers, Purakaunui and Waitati.

Full details can be read here:

http://taieri.co.nz/images/TGR-3203B.PDF (it's a downloadable PDF document)

Joint media advisory: Regional Council document ignores rail's potential

2009-05-19T17:43:00.000+12:00

Joint media advisory

issued by

Get the Train

and

Taieri Gorge Railway

Rail groups who have made submissions on the Otago Regional Council's Draft Land Transport Strategy have noted that the Council staff preparing the report have not discussed rail's potential role in meeting the Region's transport needs.

The Otago Regional Council's draft dismisses rail in 28 words as "out of the scope" of the strategy. A search of similar regional strategies reveals, not surprisingly, that Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch regional governments all give a great deal of thought to rail's role in their metropolises.

The cover of Auckland's Regional Land Transport Strategy is dominated by a photo of a passenger train. The Otago draft has a photo of an empty road.

Get the Train spokesperson Ross Johnston points out that "Even the Environment Southland regional transport strategy devotes about half a page to rail's role and potential in their province. To be exact, 273 words to 28, about ten-to-one. It's embarrassing to have our southern cousins running rings around us in transport planning, like they do in netball."

The Southland strategy concludes Opportunities for the use of rail to transport goods should be facilitated where practical.

Get the Train will present their submission to the Otago Regional Council at 2pm on Tuesday 19 May, and will table the Auckland, Wellington, Canterbury and Southland strategies.

Get the Train wants the Council to add a chapter to the Strategy giving an inventory of Otago's rail facilities and discussing their potential to assist in the Region's transport , environmental and social needs.

Grant Craig, operations manager of Taieri Gorge Railway says "Rail under the ORC comes second best or not at all! Rail throughout the world is seeing marked growth especially in passenger services and at least the ORC should have a policy at looking at rail as an alternative to road."

ENDS

Contact details:

Get the Train:

by email: Ross Johnston -- jpl@callsouth.net.nz
by mobile after 2pm: Dell McLeod 027 668 0089
by phone: Danielle Cameron 482 1233

Taieri Gorge Railway

Grant Craig or Murray Bond: Ph 4774449 Extn 820 or 0274 822895

APPENDIX

Extracts from various Regional Council strategies

Draft Otago Regional Land Transport Programme 2009 - 2012: "Strategic planning of, and improvements to, the rail network—whether the main trunk line or Taieri Gorge railway—is outside the scope of this regional land transport strategy." (p6)

Wellington Regional Land Transport Strategy 2007 - 2016: "Rail is a prominent mode here and the programme proposes early reversal of the long term neglect of rail infrastructure." (p5)
"The rail network is particularly important in the Wellington region, providing the key medium to long distance and high volume passenger transport service between the Wellington City CBD and the region's
other centres and townships, and vital freight connections. Rail connections to CentrePort and the Cook Strait ferries mean the region's rail network is of national importance." (p19) link:
http://www.gw.govt.nz/story_images/4361_Recommended_RLTS_s8634.pdf

Auckland Auckland Regional Land Transport Strategy 2005 'Moving Forward' Summary document: "Rail has considerable under-used potential for the efficient movement of passengers and freight through the
region. Rail is not subject to the same congestion that leads to
inefficiencies with road- based transport. Rail users should be able
to move seamlessly to other forms of public transport." (page10)
link:http://www.arc.govt.nz/albany/fms/main/Documents/Transport/RLTS/RLTS%20Summary%20Document.pdf.

Canterbury Regional Land Transport Strategy 2005-2015: "Rail is an integral part of our regional land transport network. It provides an alternative to some road-based trips for both people and freight. Where increased use of rail can be cost-effectively used, it can provide benefits through reduced road maintenance costs, lower environmental effects and by making our roads safer and more pleasant." (p29) link:
www.ecan.govt.nz/NR/rdonlyres/D0FDB7F9-DF57-4207-9B1F-75B0365DE10C/0/RLTS.pdf

Southland Regional Land Transport Strategy: "The existing rail freight service in Southland is limited to the South Island main trunk line, which generally follows the same alignment as State Highway 1, and the
Ohai and Bluff branch lines. Notwithstanding the limited area served, rail is a significant carrier of freight into and out of the region.
Short haul services are also available, particularly to and from the Port of Bluff. A number of Southland's large industries have sidings providing direct
access to their site.
The Ohai line runs for 79 kilometres from Invercargill to Ohai, with principal freight including refrigerated meat products for export from the Makarewa and Lorneville freezing works, and coal from Ohai to supply markets predominantly in Otago and Canterbury. The line is generally in a poor state of repair and is
operated on a maintenance only basis, partly because of the decrease in rail freight due to the increased trucking of freight by road.
A small tourist line operates between Fairlight and Kingston, where the steam train the Kingston Flyer operates. With the exception of this passenger service, all train traffic in Southland relates to the carriage of goods and cargo. However, the presence of rail lines
enables the option of reintroducing passenger services at any time in the future.
Rail provides an alternate, and at times a more economic, means of moving freight. It also reduces the number of heavy vehicles carrying freight on roads, enhancing road safety and improving environmental
quality. As a consequence, it is beneficial to facilitate and encourage growth in the rail sector.

Implication: Opportunities for the use of rail to transport goods should be facilitated where practical." (p9) link:
http://www.es.govt.nz/Documents/Regional%20Land%20Transport/Southland%20Regional%20Land%20Transport%20Strategy.pdf

--
--------------------------

from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Story from Otago Daily Times Online

2009-05-17T16:07:00.001+12:00

Transport options dominate hearings

Trains, buses and cycling dominated submissions on the final day of public consultation on the Otago Regional Council's 10-year plan yesterday.

Story from Otago Daily Times Online

2009-04-30T09:54:00.001+12:00

Train petition given to ORC

Residents keen to see a commuter rail service operating in Dunedin arrived by train at Dunedin Railway Station yesterday to present a petition to Otago Regional councillor Michael Deaker.

Story from Otago Daily Times Online

2009-04-27T10:56:00.001+12:00

Petition calls for commuter trains

Almost 2500 people have signed a petition asking the Otago Regional Council to support a Dunedin commuter train service.

Submissions for the train

2009-04-16T20:33:00.001+12:00

Hi Everyone

Submission time for the commuter train has rolled around. You can
make a substantial contribution to the push to get a commuter train by
writing a submission or two.

We have made a detailed submission asking for a feasibility study
regarding the train and specifying what we would like the Otago
Regional Council to cover in this study. It includes the petition
that began its life at the Waitati meeting many of you were at, and
would be greatly supported by a flood of other submissions from you
and any one you know.

To make a submission to the Long Term Council Community Plan fill in
the form below (deleting this part of email and forwarding to email
address listed below) or fill in the attached form. Explain why you
would like a commuter train and how you would use it. The submission
can be emailed, faxed or posted (no signature is required for the
email).

It has to be in by the 1st May.

It would be excellent if you could also make a submission to the Otago
Regional Land Transport Programme – this is the second attachment and
just as simple.

Please, please, forward this email on to anyone you know who would
like a commuter train. It would also be helpful if community groups,
businesses and schools could put in submissions too so pass it on to
any you are involved with.

Email us if you have any questions,
Kaia

Please write your comments below and send your submission by 1 May to:
Long Term Council Community Plan,
Otago Regional Council
Private Bag 1954, Dunedin
Fax: 03 479 0015
Email: ltccp@orc.govt.nz

Name or representative:

Organisational Name (if applicable):

Business Hours Telephone:

After Hours Telephone:

Date:

Would like to present your submission in person (hearings will be held
during the weeks starting 11th May 09) -answer yes or no:

My submission is:

--
--------------------------

from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Train pics

2009-03-22T19:28:00.001+13:00

Here are a few photos from the day the train came to Waitati. The
weather might not have been at it's best but it sure didn't dampen
people's enthusiasm. This is from Michies Crossing train stop.

Leonie

waiting for the train @ Michies Crossing

here it comes...

inside the lovely, old carriage

the morning sun just coming through

heading towards Dunedin

Hustle and bustle

2009-03-19T21:16:00.001+13:00

Hustle and bustle at the Dunedin Railway Station, just after the
arrival of the one-off Walk to Work Day commuter train from Waitati,
about 9am, Wednesday 18 March 2009.

Copyleft photo by Peter Dowden, may be freely re-edited and republished.

Dunedin's last commuter train, 1982

2009-03-18T20:59:00.001+13:00

...or is that second last? This photo by Ken Devlin shows the last
commuter train leaving Dunedin for Mosgiel at 5.10pm, S December 1982.

Train figures make interesting reading

2009-03-18T13:17:00.001+13:00

by Peter Dowden

The conductor let me get a James Bond-style snapshot of his passenger
number tally.

Hundreds support Waitati train

2009-03-18T12:51:00.001+13:00

Mist the train . . . Over a hundred people wait at the old Waitati
station site for the commuter train to Dunedin. After stopping at
Purakaunui, Mihiwaka, Sawyers May and Maia, Dunedin's first commuter
train in decades arrived at Dunedin with about 300 passengers. Photo:
Blueskin News/blueskin.co.nz

More on the one day train

2009-03-05T23:29:00.001+13:00

Hello there

The one day train is now under two weeks away on Wednesday 18th March. Please join us on the train and let everyone you can know so that it will be chocka. I can't wait to travel on this gorgeous railway that I have only ever looked at or driven beside for only $5, and to commute by train for at least a day.

The train departs Dunedin for Waitati at 7am (it can take passengers for Purakaunui and Waitati)

Train departs Waitati 7:45am, arrives Dunedin 8:30am

The train will stop at all stations except St Leonards, Maia and Ravensbourne. The closest stop for Port is at Sawyers Bay - where the main Rd comes out. In order for the train to stop at the old stations eg Purakaunui/Osbourne you need to let them know you will be boarding there when you book.

Mosgiel train departs Mosgiel at 8am and arrives in Dunedin at 8:20am

You are then welcome to join the festivities and breakfast in the Octagon

The return train departs Dunedin at 5pm for Waitati

Apologies, I don't have the time of the return train for Mosgiel

Booking is essential, call:

Taieri Gorge Railway

03 477 4449

or email: reserve@taieri.co.nz - let them know where you're getting on

Cost: $5 each way, needs to be paid in cash on train, no eftpos

For those North of Waitati places to meet and carpool to the train are:

Palmerston - near the Station - 7am

Waikouaiti - near the old Station site - 7:10am

Karitane Hall - 7:10am

Seacliff Market - 7:20am

Warrington Hall - 7:30am

Please forward this email on

I look forward to riding the packed train with you all

Kaia

--
--------------------------

from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Ad: Walk to Work Day,

2009-02-24T11:14:00.001+13:00

Fare of $5

Breakfast (hot cross bun or similar, and coffee or tea)

Spot prizes

Entertainers from the Fringe Festival (stilt walkers, hula hoopers, fire eaters)

Departs Waitati at 7.45am and stops if required at Purakaunui, Sawyers
Bay and St
Leonards.

Car pools will leave from towns to the north of Waitati as follows:

Palmerston (near the station) 7.00am

Waikouaiti (near the old station site) 7.10am

Karitane Hall 7.10am

Seacliff Market 7.20am

Warrington Memorial Hall 7.30am

Reservations essemntial: 477 4449 or reserve@taieri.co.nz

Waitati gets a daily commuter train, albeit only for a day

2009-02-24T10:07:00.001+13:00

A suburban train will run from Waitati to Dunedin on Wednesday, March
18, when commuters will be encouraged to walk or take public transport
to work, Bill Campbell reported in the 'Otago Daily Times' last month
[23 February to be exact, which is this month if you are reading this
before next month].

A fare of $5 per train journey would be charged, Dunedin City Council
events and sustainable travel co-ordinator Charlotte Flaherty told the
newspaper.

People would be encouraged to travel by bus and on foot to work from
other parts of Dunedin, while another train will run from Mosgiel.
Commuters will be offered breakfast (hot cross bun or similar, and
coffee or tea, provided by Dunedin businesses. There will also be spot
prizes, a live radio broadcast and entertainers from the Fringe
Festival (stilt walkers, hula hoopers, fire eaters).

The North Line passenger train will leave Waitati at 7.45am and stop,
if required, for passengers at Purakaunui, Sawyers Bay and St
Leonards, Taieri Gorge Railway operations manager Grant Craig said.
The return train to Waitati will leave the Dunedin Railway Station at
5pm, with similar stops to the morning service.

Car pools will leave from towns to the north of Waitati as follows:
Palmerston (near the station) 7.00am; Waikouaiti (near the old station
site) 7.10am; Karitane Hall 7.10am; Seacliff Market 7.20am; Warrington
Hall 7.30am.

Story from Otago Daily Times Online

2009-02-24T10:02:00.001+13:00

Suburban trains for car-free day

Suburban trains will run from Waitati and Mosgiel to Dunedin on Wednesday, March 18, when commuters will be encouraged to walk or take public transport to work.

Get the Train Meeting

2009-02-09T19:52:00.001+13:00

Hello train people

Happy New Year. The cogs of the year are starting to turn and we have
a train meeting coming up:

Next Meeting:

Wednesday, 11th February, 7pm

At Dell's, 5 View St, Orokonui

Bring along any information for the submission you may have gathered.
Look forward to seeing you,
Kaia

--
--------------------------

from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

D Scene reports Taieri Gorge boss's pessimism

2008-11-20T09:52:00.001+13:00

This week's 'D Scene' newspaper has a cover story in which Taieri
Gorge Railway chief executive Murray Bond expresses pessimism
regarding the newly elected Government's attitude to rail passenger
projects in the South.

They don't seem to have a website to link to, but go and find a copy
and read it!

by Peter

Thursday 27 November meeting reminder

2008-11-19T12:47:00.001+13:00

Hello everybody

Just a reminder that the next Get the Train meeting is Thursday week:

Thursday 27th November
7pm at Dell's place,
5 View St
Orokonui, Waitati

Look forward to seeing you
Kaia

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Wayne Mason Concert

2008-11-16T09:37:00.000+13:00

Wayne Mason, a brilliant Kiwi singer/song writer, is playing at
Waitati Hall next Thursday. Wayne is a train enthusiant and has been
supporting our efforts to get the train back in his publicity. Come
along and enjoy this concert:

Wayne Mason
Thusday, November 20th, 8pm
$10
Waitati Hall (doors open 7:30)

Kaia

--
--------------------------

from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Story from Otago Daily Times Online

2008-11-07T12:01:00.001+13:00

Labour's deputy leader jumps on board.

Commuter train one possibility

A Labour Government would "be in the business" of subsidising a commuter train between Dunedin and Mosgiel if it had regional council backing, the party's deputy leader Michael Cullen said while in Dunedin yesterday.

Possible Government coalition partner supports Dunedin rail

2008-11-06T09:37:00.001+13:00

Photo: Jeanette Fitzsimons with her party co-leader, Dr Russel Norman
(photo from greens.org.nz)

Green Party co-leader Jeanette Fitzsimons expressed support for
passenger trains in Dunedin in a pre-election interview in today's
'Otago Daily Times'.

Jeanette told 'ODT' political editor Dene Mackenzie that she was
brought up in Mosgiel and remembered travelling regularly on the train
between Dunedin and her home.

Given the existing rail line, the Hillside rail workshops and the
increasing use of the main trunk line for freight, she would support
any efforts to re-establish a light rail commuter service between
Mosgiel and Dunedin.

Full interview text on the ODT website:

http://www.odt.co.nz/election-2008/opinion/30564/greens-keen-offer-039tired039-labour-some-refreshment

Wingatui race day train booked out

2008-11-05T10:26:00.001+13:00

Photo: Taieri Gorge Railway locomotives and carriages (Photo by
Wikimedia Commons)

Otago voted with its feet in favour of regional rail services
yesterday when the Taieri Gorge Railway charter train to Wingatui was
booked out. Extra bus services were organised in addition to the train
to take racegoers to the racing club's Melbourne Cup Day.

Taieri Gorge Railway operations manager Grant Craig said that 400
tickets were sold, the entire allocation. The train had 12 carriages
and locomotives were attached at either end to save the need for
shunting.

"People could go out and have a good time without worrying about
drinking too much," Grant said. "And then we brought them all right
back to the centre of town."

Wednesday's 'Otago Daily Times' (p2, 5 November) had a nice picture of
the train's departure from Dunedin.

--
--------------------------

from Get the Train group

getthetrain.blogspot.com

Article in 'The Star' about Mosgiel meeting

2008-10-31T10:27:00.001+13:00

'Bring Back the Train' group to be formed
By BRENDA HARWOOD

AN action group is to be formed to push for the reintroduction of
commuter rail services in Dunedin, after a ''useful'' discussion of
the issues at Tuesday night's ''Bring Back the Train'' meeting in
Mosgiel.
On a busy night for locals — with many people attending a meeting
on fluoridation and others taking their children to the Kids for Kids
concert in town — about 40 people attended the meeting at the Mosgiel
Station Cafe...................More.... http://www.thestar.co.nz/

Inaugural Meeting of Get the Train group

2008-10-31T09:57:00.001+13:00

'Get the Train' held its Inaugural Meeting in Waitati on 23rd October 08. The
members discussed promotion, a submission to next year's ORC 10 yearly
Plan, whether we need to set up a legal entity and how to go about a
feasibility study.

The Group is seeking expertise for its campaign on the following matters:

* Global Position – climate change, peak oil
* History of train travel in the areas around Dunedin
* Specifics of road vs rail
* Accounting that includes environment, society and health
* Practicalities of trains to ensure long term success
* Potential economic benefits
* Establishing terms of reference for a feasibility study

We have 1300 signatures thus far on our Petition and more rolling in
all the time. Members will go to Oamaru Victorian Heritage
celebrations with petitions. If anyone knows of fairs or community
events to take petitions to please get in touch with us.

The ODT article on 23rd Oct highlighted behaviour of ORC employees and
the damningness of their response.

The Otago Regional Council is just one of many targets for a campaign.
If all else fails we'll sell a few raffles, sizzle a few sausages and
buy a railcar!

It was noted that Trudy Hutchison is organising a campaign in Mosgiel,
while Jean Park of the Business Professional Women's network is
pushing for the Southerner. There is a rail campaign in Hampden as
well. It is quite possible that many of these campaigns will come together.

The Name of our Group was chosen to be "Get The Train" and the group
now has a website:

getthetrain.blogspot.com

The next meeting will be on 27th November, 7pm at Dell's, 5 View St,
Orokonui. (This is a change from the date discussed in the meeting.)

(edited from the full Minutes which are available to members by
emailing getthetrain @ gmail.com)

Mosgiel commuter train meeting TONIGHT (Tuesday)

2008-10-28T08:47:00.001+13:00

A meeting to discuss the feasibility of the return of the Mosgiel
commuter train will be held at 7pm in the Mosgiel Station cafe and
function centre in Gladstone Rd TONIGHT, Tuesday 28 October. Organised
by Fairfield resident Trudy Hutchison.

Story from Otago Daily Times Online

2008-10-26T16:48:00.001+13:00

Cool response to suburban rail push

It would take "millions" of signatures for the Otago Regional Council to reconsider rail as a passenger transport option in Dunedin, but a Purakaunui woman believes the council needs to "look outside the square" and into the feasibility of running a suburban railcar service from Dunedin.

Story from Otago Daily Times Online

2008-10-26T14:02:00.001+13:00

Push to re-establish 'Southerner'

Dunedin people are being urged to jump aboard and join the call to restore commuter train travel in the south.

Story from Otago Daily Times Online

2008-10-26T13:58:00.001+13:00

Strong support for trains

Strong support for the return of a suburban train service from Dunedin to Port Chalmers and up the north line to Waitati, Waikouaiti and Palmerston was apparent at a public meeting attended by more than 200 people in the Waitati hall this week.

Story from Otago Daily Times Online

2008-10-26T13:53:00.001+13:00

Commuter train pressure grows

The public pressure for reestablishing commuter rail services in Dunedin is cranking up with another ''Bring Back the Train'' public meeting.

Poll shows huge support for commuter rail

2008-10-26T13:50:00.001+13:00

Otago Daily Times online poll:

http://www.odt.co.nz/polls/13510/should-commuter-trains-return-dunedin-tracks

Get the Train

Final numbers for train; link to ODT story

Thank you for getting the train!!!

Channel 9 news story

ODT story

Twilight train excursion to Waitati

Car Free Day - train ride to town and back

Media advisory: Get the Train organises commuter train for World Car-Free Day, 22 September

CAR FREE DAY COMMUTER TRAIN updated timetable

Car Free Day ... 22 September 2010

Another Train Update

Train update

235 commuters take the morning train

GET THE TRAIN (column): Remember the train on 10 March

Remember the train!

Get the train to work on 10 March (Waitati ad)

All aboard the March Commuter Train

March Commuter Train

Train update

Story from Otago Daily Times Online

Commuters take the train to work

Half-million rail project

Catch the Train on Car-Free Day, Tuesday 22 September: Final details; a Bouquet to DCC; more trains the following week

Commuter train timetable

Fwd: Catch the train on Car-Free Day

Catch the train on Car-Free Day

ORC submission response

Blueskin News has forwarded a page to you from Channel 9 | Online

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