Funding for rail upgrades in the lower North Island is being welcomed

The Government's putting 802-million dollars towards new trains - to come in around 2028.

However, trains may not be hybrid as agencies look at cost-efficiencies.

The funding's also going towards doubling services during peak hours.

Manawatu-Whanganui Regional Council chair Rachel Keedwell says this will benefit commuters, to travel between and within the regions.