Wellington train delays: Commuters struggle as staff continue industrial action

By RNZ

A Wellington commuter says she and other passengers felt like they almost passed out because of crowding on a train.

More train services were cancelled and delayed in the capital on Thursday as rail staff continued their industrial action ahead of contract talks.

This industrial action was launched after seven bargaining meetings since work for a new collective agreement started in July.

Since Tuesday they have been ‘working to rule” - taking all breaks and not working overtime or accepting alterations to their shifts.

Tatiana said her trip from Manor Park this morning was awful.

“I almost just passed out on a train this morning, and I was waiting half an hour for a train.”

The train stopped for about seven minutes on its approach to the station, she said.

A commuter at Wellington Railway Station, Colin Blake, said he was sick of the delays.

His train last night was 40 minutes late, and there were no signs indicating delays or cancellations, he said.

Meanwhile, another Wellington commuter, Tom, said he supported industrial action by train staff, despite the disruption it’s caused.

Train operator Metlink has been approached for comment.

Transdev managing director Ian ladd told RNZ it was very optimistic the dispute can be resolved at a meeting on Friday.

The action is currently expected to continue until at least Monday.

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