services between the important cities. The first through freight from Christchurch to Invercargill did not operate until December 1970. During the 1970s and 1980s, patterns of freight haulage changed dramatically, with the last of the branch lines closing and an emphasis placed upon long-distance haulage. The South Island Main Trunk is now used to carry significant quantities of long-distance freight, and it connects with the North Island via roll-on roll-off ferries between Picton and Wellington. These ferries have allowed freight trains to be operated from Auckland to Christchurch on a 30-hour schedule. References Citations Bibliography Railway lines in New Zealand Rail transport in Canterbury, New Zealand Rail transport in the Marlborough Region Rail transport in Otago Rail transport in Southland, New Zealand 3 ft 6 in gauge railways in New Zealand