Why was Tranz Rail's privatisation seen as positive for Kiwis?

Question

Why was Tranz Rail's privatisation seen as positive for Kiwis?

Answer 1

We were told that it Tranz Rail would better manage the network.  It also provides a revenue stream for the government.

On the flip-side, privatising the rail network has meant that:

*  No national rail strategy exists

*  It's an overseas monopoly

*  Private companies expect their investment to be profitable however when it comes to providing an effectivie, efficient public transport system our priority should not be profit.  There are other measures of success like reduced traffic conjestion and a reduction in carbon emissions.