Go to FacebookThe Society was formed in 1944 by enthusiasts interested in the then New Zealand Railways. Membership is open to all with an interest in the New Zealand Railway system both old and new. Member groups meet in most cities where talks, films, and other activities can be enjoyed. Read more–>
Tony Hurst
Currently, Wellington suburban train services are operated by Matangi electric multiple-units, all virtually visibly identical. But as recently as 2011 there was a wide variety of electric units in use, as well as one set of locomotive-hauled carriages, providing a much more colourful and varied operating fleet, including colour schemes of an earlier era. This was not by deliberate planning: it was rather that a lack of timely decisions on new stock had led to hurried re-introduction of previously withdrawn multiple-units and locomotives. This book tells the story of this era, with an emphasis on the variety of equipment and liveries that could be seen up until 2012. The story is lavishly illustrated with photographs illustrating the visual diversity within this period.
145 x 210mm, card covers, landscape format, 45 photographs. 64 pages, card covers
Retail: NZ$30.00 AU$40.00 RoW$54.00
Member: NZ $24.00 AU$34.00 RoW$ 48.00
In the latest copy of the FRONZ newsletter is an update on Wab794 (which is leased to Fielding & District Rail Society)
“On Tuesday 12 September 2017, the Wab was lifted up and wheels removed then placed in the Engine shed to continue with the overhaul. On 1 August 2020, the Wab made it out into the sunlight for its first time in nearly 3 years to have the grease and grime removed so we can continue crack testing and paint the under frame. Some sections of the front of the cab are being replaced with new metal, along with replacement steel on a part of the ashpan. Andrew continues this work every Saturday to keep things moving along with many other endless replacement jobs. A lot of work has been carried out in the coal bunker removing the rust and old paint. We are waiting a visit from our crack test-ing man to carry out MPI (Magnetic partical inspection) on the front tube plate and the welding of the stays which have been replaced to make sure there are no cracks. The wooden floor of the cab has been removed to check the state of the steel work underneath and at this stage is all looking very healthy.”
