# New Zealand First rail infrastructure proposals > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-zealand-first-rail-infrastructure-proposals > Updated: 2026-10-27T14:02:18.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. New Zealand First, led by Winston Peters, has introduced a series of proposals to expand and restructure the nation’s rail network. Initial plans focused on the South Island, including increasing the frequency of the Mainlander service and launching a 12-month commuter rail trial in Canterbury to connect Rolleston and Rangiora to Christchurch. The party subsequently unveiled a broader ten-point rail policy. This plan includes the creation of two new council-government co-owned companies, Auckland Rail and Wellington Rail, to manage metropolitan services and infrastructure. This restructuring aims to allow KiwiRail to prioritize freight, ferries, and property. Other key components of the policy involve making the Te Huia service between Hamilton and Auckland permanent, improving freight capacity in the Golden Triangle through tunnel ventilation and passing loops, and delivering the $1.35 billion Rail Network Investment Programme. The proposals also encompass the Marsden Point Rail Link, the introduction of two new Cook Strait ferries by 2029, and long-term planning for Auckland’s main rail lines. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-27: New Zealand First announces ten-point rail policy New Zealand First has proposed a ten-point rail policy, including creating new metropolitan rail companies in Auckland and Wellington and making the Te Huia passenger service permanent. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-zealand-first-announces-ten-point-rail-policy ### 2026-10-18: New Zealand First proposes South Island rail expansions New Zealand First has announced plans to increase the frequency of the Mainlander passenger train and launch a 12-month commuter rail trial in Canterbury to connect Rolleston and Rangiora to Christchurch. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-zealand-first-proposes-south-island-rail-expansions --- Cite as: New Zealand First rail infrastructure proposals. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-zealand-first-rail-infrastructure-proposals