Designed to transport produce from the productive hinterland farms, plus limestone and coal deposits to the port and beyond, North Otago’s numerous branch lines successfully fulfilled these tasks through the decades. Author Arthur De Maine covers in detail the features and operation of each line. Branches covered are: Kurow, Waitaki dam extension, Ngapara, Tokarahi, Dunback… Read more »

This weeks article is from the New Zealand Railway Observer Volume 30, No 1, Autumn 1973 and is: A Scenic Bush Railway – Impressions of a New Zealand Saw Mill by A.P. Godber, ex Assistant Machine Shop Foreman, NZR  Article 35, Volume 30, No 1, Autumn 1973 Each week a new Article from early issues… Read more »

Refreshment on Rail New Zealand Railways 1878-1950 The refreshment branch of New Zealand Railways was a significant undertaking. Over many years the department made available refreshment room leases throughout the railway system, some being replaced when NZR commenced dining car operation on key services.  Dining cars were eventually superseded as a war time economy measure,… Read more »

Two papers have been added to the 2025 NZRLS Annual General Meeting Papers under the Members Menu. These documents are the Audited (Financial) Performance Report for the year ended 30 June 2025 and the NZRLS Constitution V14. This is the new NZRLS constitution filed as part of the Society’s re-registration as an Incorporated Society.  … Read more »

A copy of the draft AGM Minutes are now available in the Members Menu with the AGM papers.  These draft minutes are subject to confirmation at the 2026 meeting. .