Mainline Steam
Mainline Steam is an organisation devoted to the restoration and operation of historic mainline steam locomotives. Regular day excursions and multi-day tours are operated, by Mainline Steam, over rail lines thoroughout New Zealand. These excursions provide travellers with the unique opportunity to relive the days when steam was king while experiencing the magnificent New Zealand countryside. Excursions are operated by the Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch branches. These are well advertised in local newspapers and on the Excursion page of our website. [1] Early bookings are essential for all excursions.
As well as excursions the locomotives are available for charter by interested organisations and Mainline Steam can provide a completely staffed train, if required. These make for fantastic company outings. Full details can be obtained by telephoning or faxing our Auckland depot on (09) 270 5592.
Mainline Steam currently has a number of fully restored and mainline certified locomotives. They include: J1211, Jb1236, Ja1275, Ab663 and Ba552.
Our principal depot is located in Auckland at 23 Cheshire Street, Parnell, where up to twelve steam locomotives are kept, including a GMAM Garratt from South Africa. The depot is usually open Monday to Saturday from 9am - 4:30pm and visitors are always welcome. Entry is by donation (usually $5). The Wellington Depot is located at Plimmerton and regular workdays are held each Saturday. In Christchurch the depot is located in Middleton and because it is located on an industrial site access is restricted. If you are going to be in those areas contact details can be obtained by emailing us from the web site.
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If you want to do more than look at the locomotives you might consider becoming a member and getting some hands on experience at locomotive restoration. New members are always welcome at all our depots and we would be happy to send you out the required application forms or you can download the appropriate form from the Membership page [2] of the website.
