Transport lobby group the Campaign for Better Transport has launched a petition calling on the Government to support a commuter train service between Hamilton and Auckland.

Spokesperson Jon Reeves says they are becoming increasingly frustrated at the stonewalling coming from central Government and related transport agencies, for the "Waikato Trains Now" campaign.

The CBT recently organised a postcard campaign which involved sending thousands of postcards to selected members of Parliament.

However, in response to the postcards, Government MPs claimed the best approach for commuters will be to drive to the outskirts of Auckland on the planned $2 billion Waikato Expressway and from there use "park and ride alternatives to get to the city".

The Waikato Expressway is forecast to be complete in ten years time and will save ten minutes from current journey times.

Mr Reeves says that such responses have prompted the need for the petition.

"The public's view on the best approach is very different. Over 80% of Hamilton ratepayers showing their support for the services in a recent Hamilton City Council survey, even if a small rate increase is required to run the trains. Our hope is that the petition we?ve launched today will finally open the Government's eyes to what the public really wants."

Petition forms can be downloaded from www.bettertransport.org.nz

A major public meeting has also been organised in Hamilton Tuesday December 1. Local MPs are to speak at the meeting, including some who support and some who oppose the proposed services.