Westfield And Otahuhu Change
Over And Double Line Extension.

Quite an event in the change-over history of our Railways was the bringing into use of electric power interlocking and double line automatic signalling in the Westfield-Otahuhu area over a distance of 1 1/2 miles on December 6th last. These installations called for a change-over from the old mechanical signalling and interlocking to the latest system of three position colour light signalling, and the movement of all points and traps by electric points motors. This work entailed a great amount of preparation by both the Maintenance and Signal staff and, for a long period before the actual opening, a new fabric of main lines, yards, and signalling material was gradually laid down, each section dovetailing in with the others as it was put in. Throughout, the traffic was kept working with but slight delays. The Westfield yard is now equipped with a complete new power plant, including electric interlocking by the most up-to-date interlocking machines in the Dominion. Ample provision has been made for the Auckland-Westfield junction of the new deviation when that is completed. The Otahuhu yard plant is the same as for Westfield with the exception that the existing mechanical frame has been adapted for working with the new system.

With this change-over was brought about the doubling of the lines from Westfield to Otahuhu, thus providing double line working from Auckland to Otahuhu. The change proved particularly welcome and materially assisted during the Christmas rush in expediting train movements.

This work could not have been carried out so successfully had it not been for the co-operation of all concerned, including both office and outside staff.