A public transport hub designed to ease travel to and from Auckland Airport has been officially opened.
Transport Minister Michael Wood and mayor Phil Goff unveiled the new $69 million Puhinui Interchange in Papatoetoe on July 24.
The interchange is part of the larger Airport to Botany rapid transit project.
It links the rail platform with a new bus area via en elevated forecourt, making it easy for passengers to transfer, and includes new lighting, public toilets, drop-off zones, better shelter, along with improved facilities and access for cyclists and pedestrians.
Wood says the project supported Auckland’s economic recovery by creating more than 150 jobs during its construction phase.
“The interchange has been future-proofed for future rail upgrades, including space for additional platforms, and for the airport to Botany rapid transit project, which will add a bus rapid transit bridge to better connect east Auckland with good public transport.”
Goff says the new station provides regular and congestion-free access to the airport and its employment precinct by public transport.
“For travellers and the tens of thousands who work at the airport and the business precinct around it, it ensures people can safely use public transport in a convenient manner and avoid the peak-hour build up of road traffic.”
The interchange is part of the Southwest Gateway short-term airport access improvements programme of works being delivered in partnership with Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and Auckland International Airport Ltd.
