the Labour spokesman on transport had promised to reroute the line if Labour was elected. But the deviation did not proceed. It would have cost $3 million (1974), with extra operating costs of $3000 per year. The new route would have required sharp curves and a level crossing. In 2016, the junction with the East Coast Main Trunk was relocated westward and the line diverted west of Owens Place. The diversion was to allow room for State Highway 2 to be widened and grade separated between Bayfair and Baypark. References Further reading Railway lines in New Zealand Rail transport in the Bay of Plenty Region 3 ft 6 in gauge railways in New Zealand Railway lines opened in 1955 Tauranga 1955 establishments in New Zealand