Auckland FC Fans Can Skip Penrose Parking and Ride a Train Wearing Their Team

Auckland Transport unveiled a specially branded train called The Auckland Express on Nov. 5, ahead of Auckland FC’s derby against the Wellington Phoenix on Saturday, Nov. 7, at Go Media Stadium in Penrose. The train’s livery recognises a deal, announced in October, that gives match-ticket holders free bus and train travel to all 13 Auckland FC home games this season.²⁵

The news comes from an Auckland Transport media release. The free travel is not new. It was announced on Oct. 8 and started with the home opener on Oct. 17. What is new is a train dressed for the occasion, with captain and defender Hiroki Sakai, striker Sam Cosgrove and Grand Final hero Cam Howieson on the livery.⁵²

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown said in the release: “I love trains and I love events that get people out enjoying all the city has to offer. Put them together and it creates a fantastic way for people to get to see the country’s number one football team.”²

The release says the mayor was delighted to see Howieson among his favorite players on the train. “Cam’s a great player with a great story who really seized his chance at Auckland FC. It’s great to see him recognised in this way,” Brown said.²

Why it matters for fans

The point is to make game day cheaper and simpler. Auckland FC CEO Nick Becker said in the release that integrated ticketing makes attending a game much more affordable, especially for families after a value-for-money day out. “The train is a fantastic addition to our match day experience and looks awesome,” he said.²

Richard Harrison, Auckland Transport’s Executive General Manager Network Planning and Performance, said the train takes driving and parking out of the picture: “In the past a lot of Auckland FC fans may have driven and parked in Penrose, but now it’s never been easier to take the whole family on the train direct to Penrose Station, which is a very short walk to the stadium.”²

The newly opened City Rail Link added three new lines, including direct train service from west Auckland for the first time. Our earlier story covered the City Rail Link’s record October.²⁷

How it works

• Who rides free: Match-ticket holders only. Show your ticket on buses and trains to and from Go Media Stadium.²
• When: From 1:30 p.m. until the end of service that evening.²
• Not included: Ferries.²
• Getting there: From Waitematā, Te Waihorotiu or Karanga-a-Hape stations, take the South City Line to Penrose. The trip from Waitematā takes 23 minutes.²
• Derby day: The club’s matchweek guide says a supporters’ train leaves Waitematā Station at 2:54 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, and encourages all fans to catch it. Kickoff is at 5 p.m.³