Behind the locomotion

With the Britomart transport centre now open in Auckland, ANGELA McCARTHY talks to four people helping to run it.

Main control room supervisor - Barry Fraser

Although Fraser is hidden behind thick security doors and firewalls, he can transport himself anywhere within Britomart Transport Centre with a click of his mouse.

As main control room supervisor, Fraser is the human eye behind the computer system that controls the centre's ventilation, lighting, signage, security and alarms.

"If a train catches fire the system will automatically activate fire brigade notification, smoke curtains, automatic ventilation and evacuation procedures," he explains.

Eight monitors and 63 security cameras (more than all security cameras in the rest of the central city) continually scrutinise Britomart's platforms, trains, buses and shops.

When public help buttons are activated, cameras automatically zoom to the spot so Fraser can see and talk to the person concerned. Sound Orwellian? Not so, says Fraser. "It isn't big brother, it's a tool to ensure public safety."

Sitting underground in a 50sqm room monitoring cameras could be nightmarish, but Fraser spent 35 years on naval ships, using similar equipment but often with less space.

He says his new role, which requires him to be cool and calm under pressure, is challenging and uses his mechanical knowledge and operational skills.


Tranz Scenic travel consultant - Matt Millar

A smile and a laugh make all the difference, declares Millar, Tranz Scenic travel consultant at the Britomart ticket counter.

"If I'm positive, people are more likely to be nice back."

Millar is one of five travel consultants selling tickets for charters, long distance travel and regular trips to suburbia and back. Ticket selling may sound straightforward, but Millar has to be knowledgeable about everything from platforms, timetables and departure times, to tourist attractions, destinations and toilet stops.

"We get all kinds of questions and if we don't know something, it's our job to find out."

During the rush hours it is all go, says 20-year-old Millar, who works either a 7am to 3pm or 1pm to 9pm shift. And he says train travel inquiries have definitely increased since the team moved from the Beach Rd ticket office.

Millar started working part-time for Tranz Scenic while doing a certificate in adventure tourism at Waikato Institute of Technology.

"It really helped my learning because I was getting first-hand experience about my study."

He was attracted to the role because of his interest in travel and people.

"I am a people person and enjoy helping customers organise any trips whether to Lynn Mall or out of Auckland."


Tranz Rail locomotive engineer - Mike Rimington

Anyone can get a train rolling after a bit of a tutorial, but train driving involves more than just pulling levers, says laconic Tranz Rail locomotive engineer Rimington.

"You also have to understand signals, lay of the land, speed around curves, regulations ... all while pulling a few hundred tonne behind you."

Rimington works on Auckland suburban tracks, with the occasional trip along Whangerai, Rotorua and Taumaranui routes. He usually works a 1pm shift that ends at 11pm, a 4am to 1pm shift or standard 9am to 5pm.

He is one of 80 drivers bringing Tranz Rail and Tranz Metro trains into Britomart. "The curve from the Newmarket end is the tightest on the track now, but it's no problem if you're familiar with it," he says.

Rail is in Rimmington's blood. He followed his family into the railways, joining the office in 1957 then cleaning engines before becoming a trainee driver. He trained on steam engines, then diesel, and believes electrification is the way of the future for Auckland. "They're quieter, faster and cleaner."

Now 62 he has no intention of giving up the track yet, because he enjoys the job too much. His biggest frustration? Arriving late because of problems beyond his control.


Customer services co-ordinator - Maurice Banse

Customer services co-ordinator Maurice Banse gets to hear the best and the worst opinions of Britomart.

"I'm the voice for the public as well as the communication link to management for tenants, contractors and service suppliers," says the 28-year-old.

Much of his day is spent underground, walking the platforms making sure everyone is okay. And that's what makes the job for him. "I chat with people, check out how their day is going and get paid for it."

Public relations is nothing new to Banse whose experiences include fielding calls in the police watchtower, involvement in theatre and writing and playing in a band that made the Tui Award finals this year.

As well as responding to customer queries and feedback and ensuring service quality, Banse also helps to co-ordinate events and find creative ways to promote Britomart. He particularly enjoys conducting tours around the centre, outlining the architect's vision, the centre's history and plans for the future.

When in the centre he feels he is in another world, certainly not an ordinary train station. "When you go up at the end of the day, it is like 'Oh, back to reality, back to Auckland'."