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ARTA's Chief Executive, Fergus Gammie says, "The contract extension is an endorsement of Veolia Transport's partnership with ARTA to work towards the development of a fast, frequent, reliable train service for Auckland commuters.

"Veolia have introduced sound rail management systems and bought international best practice to Auckland's rail services. The benefits can be seen in the growth of train patronage by 130% over the past four years, much improved timetables, greater reliability and more frequent services.

"Between June 2005 and July 2007, the number of train services per week have increased from 959 to 1,352. A record 5.7 million train journeys were made in the year to June 2007, showing Aucklanders clearly recognise they are now experiencing a much improved rail service".

Veoila Transport's Country Manager, Arthur Bruce says, "Everyone in Veolia is delighted with this contract extension and we appreciate the confidence shown in us by ARTA. Over the period ahead, all of our 250 plus staff will continue to work hard to deliver the best possible service to our customers while preparations continue to electrify Auckland's rail network. Veoila is looking forward to playing a key role in the delivery of that system.

'Now is an exciting time for rail in New Zealand and Veolia is looking forward to working with ARTA to build upon the significant achievements since we commenced operation here in 2004".

For media enquiries please call:

Sharon Hunter, Communications Manager, Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA)

09 379 4422 ext. 9074 or 021 545 230

Arthur Bruce, New Zealand Country Manager, Veolia Transport, 09 969 7777

ARTA is responsible for the integrated planning, funding and implementation of transport (with the exception of State Highways) throughout the Auckland region.

Auckland Regional Transport Authority 09 379 4422 www.arta.co.nz 

Veolia Transport, a division of Veolia Environnement, is a world leader in the operation of passenger transport services. Present in 27 countries, its turnover in 2006 was $A7.9 billion. Veolia Transport has more than 81,900 employees worldwide, operates more than 35,000 road, railway and marine vehicles and carries over 2.7 billion passengers a year.

Veolia Transport Australia (VTA) (formerly Connex Group Australia) was established in 1997, and since then has secured transport operations encompassing buses, light rail, trains and monorail in Australia and New Zealand, with further plans for development.

The company is responsible for more than 220 million passenger journeys per annum served by more than 3,900 employees, using approximately 1,050 vehicles. VTA's expansion is based on its expertise, decentralised organisation, aggressive commercial capacity and a long-lasting relationship and mutual trust with local authorities.

Veolia Transport works in partnership with local governments, authorities and private companies to deliver high quality transport services to communities in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, and Auckland. See www.veoliatransport.com.au