KiwiRail Reveals Sustainability Progress in Latest Report

KiwiRail has released a new Sustainability Report that provides an in-depth look at its progress, challenges, and future goals in creating a more sustainable and resilient future for Aotearoa New Zealand. The report highlights that in the fiscal year 2026, KiwiRail’s rail freight customers avoided nearly 144,000 tonnes of CO2e emissions by choosing rail over other transport methods. This achievement aligns with the company’s broader commitment to reducing emissions and supporting New Zealand’s transition to a lower-emissions economy.

The report also notes significant milestones, including a 24% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions compared to the 2019 baseline, the commissioning of eleven electric shunt vehicles, and the achievement of Toitū Envirocare Carbon Compatible Reporting status for the Steel Wheels report. These efforts reflect KiwiRail’s dedication to transparency and sustainability in its operations.

Beyond emissions, KiwiRail has made strides in safety and biodiversity. The company launched its first Biodiversity Action Plan, which includes initiatives like upskilling staff on fish passage and native planting projects. Additionally, almost 400 frontline leaders completed the Shifting Mindsets safety leadership training, representing 56% of the eligible workforce. However, the report acknowledges the growing challenge of adverse weather events due to climate change, which continue to disrupt services and strain infrastructure.

KiwiRail Chief Executive Peter Reidy emphasized the importance of sustainability in all aspects of the business, from carbon reduction to climate risk management and safety. He noted that while progress has been made, there is still work to be done to meet the company’s targets. The report serves as a baseline for future sustainability reporting, helping stakeholders understand KiwiRail’s role in New Zealand’s climate transition.