choo choo

the herald has a story today about the possibility that the government will buy back new zealands rail and ferry services. there is a $172 million dividend that can be used but at this stage the government and toll holdings are nearly $200 million apart on the final price.

i want them to find that money.

aside from the fact that utilising more rail services is pertinant to the government working to reduce greenhouse gas ommissions, think of all the other benefits.
1. transporting freight - rail is far more efficient - except when you are waiting at the crossing for all those carriages and containers to pass.
2. additional train services - additional employees required (we already have low unemployment - but hey!)
3. allow other companies to use the tracks bringing a new industry and competition into the mix.

my number one is scenic rail.
new zealand has un-real scenery. no one disputes that.
the rail tracks go through places you cant see from the road. but there are only a very small number of train journeys you can take - and thats for tourism and general getting-there-ness!
there is the auckland to wellington (the overlander) service. which is overpriced.
there are 2 trips you can take in the south island. the tranzcoastal from picton to christchurch and the tranzalpine between christchurch and greymouth. i havent travelled by train in the south island yet - so i cant comment on those.

i'm seeing the money earned from these types of scenarios being invested back into the rail and ferry system. and high speed electric trains better be next!