Nathan Guy connects with family history at rail opening
Otaki MP Nathan Guy has marked the opening of extended train services to Kapiti with a replica spike at today’s official ceremony in Waikanae.
Mr Guy’s Great Grandfather, Joseph Nathan, was Chairman of the Wellington Manawatu Railway company which completed the original line in 1886 at nearby Otaihanga.
Mr Guy and Transport Minister Steven Joyce hammered the replica spike into a section of rail to symbolise the completion of work, and the history of the occasion.
“Today is another important historical day for our region and I hope to have this replica spike on display at the new, refurbished Waikanae rail station.
“In 1886 the Wellington Chamber of Commerce noted a sack of potatoes could now be sent from Otaki to Wellington for just 7 shillings, instead of the 5 pounds it cost before the rail line was completed. That’s a good example of what better transport links mean.
“This upgrade is great news for the Kapiti Coast and wider region. Electrification and double tracking means better and more reliable services, which will be welcomed by commuters.
“Waikanae residents now have a regular service taking them all the way to Wellington and back. The new ‘Matangi’ trains will also begin operation on the Paraparaumu line around the middle of the year.
“Kapiti has been one of the fastest growing areas in the country and this will only encourage that growth.
“On top of this we also have the Wellington to Levin Road of National Significance underway which includes the Kapiti expressway and Transmission Gully.
“In October we have even more good news with regular Air New Zealand flights beginning from Paraparaumu to Auckland Airport.
“All up we have over $2 billion of government investment going into better transport that will benefit the Kapiti and Horowhenua regions.
“I’m proud to be part of a Government which is finally delivering this much-needed investment into our region.”