The Hamilton to Auckland passenger rail service could come off the tracks if it becomes too expensive for rate payers.  

Waikato Regional Council is writing to the NZTA board to ask for a one-year extension of the service, through to 2027.

They want to test full integration with Auckland’s City Rail Link, which opens next year. 

Waikato Regional Council Chair Warren Maher told Heather du Plessis-Allan 60% funding through the Land Transport Fund will be vital to keep it going. 

He says if it drops back to 51%, they want the review of the trial to go ahead at NZTA's April meeting, and that could be the death nail for Te Huia. 

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