Metlink Train Services Disrupted as Parts Supplier Trovon Collapses, Leaving Workers Unpaid

Wellington, Modern Zealand – Commuters on Wellington’s Metlink train system are facing disruptions after the collapse of Trovon, a key supplier of components for the Matangi trains. The company’s failure has led to 11 trains being temporarily removed from service, while former employees are struggling to recover unpaid wages.

Company Collapse and Impact on Train Services

Trovon Australia, which supplied HVAC air conditioning systems, air compressors, and brake units for the Matangi trains, entered voluntary administration last year and was liquidated in January [1]. Seven Matangi units were already out of service since mid-January, with an additional four being taken offline. Despite the reduction in the active fleet, Metlink officials state that scheduled timetables will not be affected and expect regular maintenance to resume in August [1].

Workers Left Owed Thousands

The collapse has left ten employees of Trovon’s New Zealand branch, based in Upper Hutt, without their final paychecks. The situation came to light in October when staff arrived at work to uncover the workshop locks had been changed due to unpaid rent [1], [2]. Despite the Australian parent company entering administration, the New Zealand arm remains registered, and workers have yet to receive their outstanding wages.

Team leader Mohammed Shameel is owed approximately $16,000, including four weeks’ pay and reimbursements for company expenses he covered personally [1]. Mechanical engineer Baljeet Singh is awaiting four weeks’ wages and a month’s worth of annual leave, while quality assurance engineer Navid Pour has not been paid for two months [1], [2].

Acquisition and Fallout

In December 2024, Malaysian engineering firm Destini acquired Trovon for A$100 million (approximately NZ$118 million), absorbing A$3.25 million (approximately NZ$3.8 million) of debt [1], [2]. Destini stated it valued Trovon’s technical capabilities and global business, despite the company reporting a A$4.81 million (approximately NZ$5.7 million) loss in the previous financial year. However, Destini has not responded to inquiries regarding the unpaid wages [1], [2].

Trovon’s administrators in Sydney informed the New Zealand employees that they were unable to claim outstanding entitlements due to the issue being based in New Zealand and requiring a New Zealand liquidator. However, officials from New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) stated they could not assist as Trovon had no New Zealand assets [1].

Director’s Apology

Trovon New Zealand’s director, John Marinos, expressed his “deepest sorry” for the situation, stating it “weighs heavily” on him [1]. He explained that funding decisions were made by the parent company and that a lack of financial support led to the inability to meet payroll obligations. He also noted he was personally owed wages by Destini [1].

The Greater Wellington Regional Council, which operates Metlink, has declined to comment further on the matter [1].