David Dalton is quite right (Weekend Sun 28 September) - there is an urgent need for a passenger rail service between Tauranga, Hamilton and Auckland and further elsewhere.
Recently I discussed, with Jim Quinn, CEO Kiwi Rail, the idea of a twice-weekly passenger service Tauranga/Auckland/Tauranga - a passenger railcar attached to an existing freight train perhaps?
Jim says he needs local government to put a case to Kiwi rail to move the idea forward.
The rail links to larger cities would be a fabulous resource for Tauranga: Lets be Positive and think outside the square - here are a few blue sky ideas:
• bring in tourists who may otherwise go straight to Rotorua and miss Tauranga out of their NZ itinerary
• link for Cruise ship passengers
• bring in shoppers from Hamilton and Auckland (Tauranga as a destination for high quality goods
• transport for holidaymakers to our wonderful beaches, restaurants, wineries, art and craft galleries
• commuters to/from Katikati, Waihi etc. (Tauranga being the business hub of the Western Bay area), university students etc.
• bring new life to Tauranga waterfront businesses.
Local businesses must take this matter up with local Councils if it is to make any headway. Tauranga Chamber of Commerce lobby perhaps?

Jenny & Michael Grose, Te Puna.