A blog like a Wellington double saloon tram: at home both in 1925 and today.
Heads of government in Australasia who sat in the upper house of parliament
Heads of government in Australia and NZ always sit in the lower house of parliament… or do they?
Political trivia to enliven your Leap Day
Happy Leap Day 2024! Please enjoy some fun political history trivia about Australian and NZ leaders.
The night was clear and the weather fine: 70 years since the Tangiwai railway disaster
A narrative history recounting experiences of New Zealand’s worst railway accident, the Tangiwai disaster of Christmas Eve 1953.
How Have Australians Marked Ballots at Referendums?
Australians write the word Yes or No to vote at referendums. There has been recent controversy over how any ballots marked with ticks or crosses are treated. How long have we voted the way we do? Have we voted differently in the past? Has a cross ever been valid?
Auckland omnishambles
Auckland’s entire railway network is to be closed and rebuilt in stages. How did we get here?
Better average speeds mean better passenger rail for New Zealand
New Zealand’s passenger trains have slow overall end-to-end speeds. Even modest improvements will enable competitive offerings that are quicker than driving.
New Zealand, the “better things aren’t possible” country
Just got back from the public transport policy briefing. Amazing turnout. Thousands of planners holding documents and chanting “better things aren’t possible”. I jest—a bit.
The next train is delayed by four years: Thoughts on the NZ National Land Transport Programme
New Zealand needs a major modal shift. It’s time to summon a sense of purpose and invest in a bold vision for the future with rail at the forefront of transport planning.
Some light research
I thought it was about time that I updated my research pages. So, because I know how to party, I did it on a Friday evening. Please enjoy a quick tour.
I’ve been there, I know the way: the NZ passenger rail book is happening!
Fancy some hot takes, rigorous research, and awesome maps about NZ railways? We got you fam.
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Dr André Brett 