Grimshaw Architects and Canadian engineer WSP have designed three train stations for Auckland’s City Rail Link (CRL), New Zealand’s largest-ever infrastructure project. The two are working with the Link Alliance, a seven-strong consortium that is delivering the main stations and tunnels for the project.
When completed, CRL will double the capacity of Auckland’s rail network, giving it the capacity to carry up to 25 million passengers a year. CRL is also the country’s first completely underground railway line, comprising a 3.5km twin-tunnel underground rail link 42m below Auckland’s city centre.
The project also involves transforming the Britomart Transport Centre into a two-way through-station, the construction of two underground stations and an interchange station.
Grimshaw and WSP’s station designs were created in partnership with the Māori authority, and will narrate the Te Ao Marama creation story. The three stations will be called Maungawhau (Mount Eden), Karanga a Hape (Karangahape) and Te Wai Horotiu (Aotea).
Neil Stonell, Grimshaw’s managing partner, said: “Grimshaw is honoured to contribute to this significant project for Auckland in Aotearoa, New Zealand, which will change not only how people transit through their city but also how they share and celebrate the rich history of Tāmaki Makaurau.
“Working with the Link Alliance and in partnership with the Mana Whenua Forum has been an enriching experience for Grimshaw and a pertinent reminder of how architecture should be engaging, impactful and of its place.”
