Down at the Station

摘要

KiwiRail, like most other businesses, has been hit hard by the coronavirus, with revenue more than 50% less than would normally be expected at this time of year. The sectors affected are: Tourism With the international tourism market effectively shut down, the TranzAlpine, Coastal Pacific and Northern Explorer services are suspended until further notice. Initially it was planned to keep operating the Capital Connection but, with a complete lockdown, this train has also been suspended. The Capital Connection started running again on 14 May. Forestry The majority of the forestry sector was shut down from 25 March. Some pulp and paper mills remained operational. With the country going to level 3 on 28 April, log harvesting was able to start again. Meat The meat sector continued to operate, with export volumes protected as an essential service. Dairy An essential business, dairying remained operational as a key part of the New Zealand economy, although some plants were operating reduced days of operation. Bulk steel and export coal have both been impacted. Domestic The decision to close non-essential businesses saw a 30-50% reduction in domestic freight volumes. Cook Strait ferry services were reduced to commercial vehicle and rail traffic, with two return sailings a day.