The arrival of train carriages for the Waikato to Auckland passenger rail service is being hailed a significant milestone

Four carriages for the Te Huia service have arrived in Hamilton today, having been under refurbishment in Lower Hutt since early 2019.

Waikato regional councillor Hugh Vercoe says the service is expected to begin early next year.

He says it's the first step in opening up the corridor to Auckland as development continues in towns like Pokeno and Mercer.

Mr Vercoe says developments won't reach their full capabilities if the only transport option is a single state highway.