As part of KiwiRail’s Papakura to Pukekohe Electrification project, Downer undertook a full upgrade of Pukekohe Station to contribute to delivery of a modern public transport interchange in the region. Our teams delivered all civil and building works including platforms, stair and lift structures, structural steelwork, piling and foundations, roadworks, and lighting systems – all alongside live passenger and freight rail operations.   

A new platform layout was built to accommodate longer trains. These platforms currently serve six-car trains with an option to extend them to nine-car trains in the future. New structures have been installed to support the overhead lines, and the track layout has been changed to allow for trains to pass easily and safely through the station area. A new stabling yard has also been built for the new electric trains along with additional tracks that will allow the through-running of freight services.    

The team implemented digital engineering to support delivery. Clash detection was key across the heavily congested site, with trades activity needing robust planning and management. Digital engineering was also used to ‘space proof’ the design and working room to manage works while allowing trains to continue to operate through the station site. 

“Pukekohe Station is completely unrecognisable, and the contractors involved have done an astonishing job to deliver a very complex build.” Angela Fulljames, Franklin Local Board Chair