10 Jul 2009

KiwiRail considers free rides for delayed commuters

6:59 pm on 10 July 2009

KiwiRail is considering offering passengers in Wellington free rides after a contractor's mistake shut down the region's rail network on Friday.

Two trains became entangled when contractors changed overhead wiring ahead of planned work at the weekend, disabling the entire service, the company said.

The delays began at 6.30am, with a power outage which gradually closed down all trains, causing major delays for commuters.

KiwiRail has offered Wellington passengers free travel on Friday afternoon to compensate for separate problems with train heating.

Spokesperson Kevin Ramshaw says it will think about making a similar gesture for people who faced delays in the morning.

Mr Ramshaw says KiwiRail will also consider whether to ask the contractors for compensation.

The company has apologised for the disruption on Friday morning. Train services resumed from 12.30pm.