Former NZR engine driver Paul Francis, was based at the East Town Locomotive depot. (Wanganui) and spent years driving trains on the Wanganui – Taranaki and main trunk lines.”Driving a main line locomotive hauling a large train through the New Zealand country side, was something I really loved and was pretty special” says Paul. He wants to give you the opportunity to drive yourself on rail here in the Eastern Bay of Plenty and see what he means.
Thanks to the hard work of Paul, who with a small group of helpers have spent months clearing blackberry, gorse, fallen trees, toi toi from the rail line now you are able to drive yourself along a piece of historic railway.
Awakeri Rail Adventures operate small petrol powered, fully self-driven golf carts fitted with rail wheels from Awakeri to Rewatu road and return ( about 10km each way). These rail vehicles will travel at a leisurely 20 kph along part of the former Taneatua branch line with stops along the way so you can take in the scenic trip yourself with friends or family.
Many years ago there was a small station in the Awakeri rail yard (photographs of the original station are here on the web site) Paul has built a replica of that station and its now on site next to the shops at Awakeri as a base for rail operations. There is ample parking on the large grass area in front of the station.
Hundreds of visitors, many from all over the world have enjoyed the experience…
So join us and “Ride the Rails!”
