Hundreds flood Frankton Station to support Te Huia & Golden Triangle Rail

Approximately 300 supporters flooded Hamilton’s Frankton Station this Sunday for “Stack the Station,” a vibrant event calling for the permanent future of the Te Huia passenger rail service. The celebration marked the launch of a major new petition urging the government to expand the service into a fully connected “Golden Triangle” network linking Auckland, Waikato, and the Bay of Plenty.

The celebratory event brought together a diverse cross-section of the region, including commuters, students, families, and senior citizens. They were joined by a cross-party group of local political leaders, including Hon Tama Potaka MP (National), Hamilton East MP Ryan Hamilton (National), and incoming Labour MP Georgie Dansey, alongside local and regional councillors.

Event Organiser Lindsey Horne says the turnout sends an undeniable message to the Government as key funding decisions approach.

“Stack the Station showed just how much Te Huia is valued. This isn’t just a train; it’s a lifeline that connects our lives, our work, and our families,” says Horne. “The community is no longer just asking for the service to stay, they are asking for it to grow. We want to see more frequent services and a network that finally links Hamilton and Auckland with Tauranga.”

The rally focused on a positive vision for Te Huia’s next phase, including more frequent services, additional stops in growing North Waikato communities such as Te Kauwhata, Pookeno, and Tuakau, and the extension of passenger rail to Tauranga, launching a full Golden Triangle passenger rail network.

As Te Huia arrived at the platform during the event, it was met by a sea of colourful banners and signs. The atmosphere underscored the broad political and social consensus for rail, highlighting its positive role for the region.

The event also marked the launch of a new petition calling on decision-makers to commit to the long-term future of Te Huia and to progress a passenger rail connection between Auckland, Waikato, and the Bay of Plenty.

“The strong turnout demonstrates sustained and growing public support for Te Huia at a critical juncture,” Horne added. “People want a modern, connected New Zealand. A Golden Triangle train is the logical next step for a growing economy and a connected community.”