Before [above] and below the fresh interiors of Wairarapa Line trains. PHOTOS/METLINK
ARTHUR HAWKES
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Wairarapa commuters would be glad to learn that Metlink has announced cosmetic upgrades for Wairarapa Line train carriages, which were getting a much-needed revamp.
Changes included stripping and painting the outside of the carriages, as well as upholstering seats and replacing other things inside the carriage, such as carpets and gangways.
Work had already begun, but a Metlink spokesperson said it would be a while before all Wairarapa Line carriages were renovated to the new standard.
“These upgrades are being rolled out slowly, as it takes a number of weeks to strip, refurbish and reassemble each carriage – but it’s well worth the wait.”
The upgrades come after growing cross-party interest in the increasingly popular line, which included May’s announcement that new trains and carriages could be ordered by late 2021.
This means this could be the last revamp these carriages ever see as Wairarapa Line stock – if everything goes to plan.
It’s just a shame they didn’t retrofit some fold up tables for the old carriages. I still pick the newer carriages because of this. They are good if you want to avoid the long time commuters who think they run the train though.