Rail Workers Celebrate Hillside Workshops Rebirth

The union representing rail workers today celebrates the official opening of KiwiRail’s rebuilt and revitalised Hillside Rail Workshop in Dunedin.

Rail and Maritime Transport Union General Secretary Todd Valster says the opening is a momentous occasion for New Zealand’s rail future.

2025 marks the 150th anniversary of Hillside being on this site.

“This new facility is already boosting high-skill, unionised jobs, strengthening our economic resilience, and enhancing South Island rail maintenance capability.”

The RMTU acknowledged the support of Minister of Rail Winston Peters for the project, and acknowledged the previous Labour government's crucial initial investment and groundwork.

"This is a big day for Dunedin, our dedicated rail workers, and the entire South Island. The RMTU fought hard for the revitalization of Hillside, and its reopening is a testament to our members' expertise and resilience, demonstrating what can be achieved when we invest in our people and vital infrastructure.”

The upgraded Hillside Workshop will be a centre of excellence for rail maintenance, overhaul, and potential future manufacturing.

“Hillside will provide essential capacity, enabling us to maintain and repair rolling stock here, reducing turnaround times, minimising costs, and ensuring more reliable rail service.”

Mr Valster noted the strategic alignment between the Hillside reopening and the recent announcement of a new inland port at Milburn, South Otago.

He says the Milburn inland port and the revitalised Hillside Rail Workshop are two sides of the same coin.

“A thriving rail network requires both efficient freight hubs and a world-class maintenance backbone. In alignment, these developments will drive economic growth and strengthen the South Island's transport infrastructure for generations to come.”

Mr Valster says the reduction of congestion and reduction of emissions from increased use of rail will be a major advance towards a modern, low-carbon supply chain.

The RMTU congratulates all those who worked tirelessly to bring the project to fruition and looks forward to a strong and productive future for the Hillside Rail Workshop.

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