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Dunedin Centenary National Steam Train Tours
The forthcoming 2006 Dunedin Station Centenary not only celebrates one of New Zealand’s most iconic buildings, but it also marks the beginning of a new regular service of nationwide steam rail tours for both local and international tourists.
JA Locomotive and Vintage Train to be used on the Tours.
During October a very special steam journey will be touring the main South Island attractions, culminating in a grand entrance to the Dunedin Station Centenary celebrations during Labour Weekend.
At these celebrations a cavalcade of steam locomotives, many of which were actually built in Dunedin, will take place. Also planned are a series of lectures, open days and steam hauled excursions up the scenic Taieri Gorge and out to the picturesque Sawyers Bay.
Following this inaugural tour, steam trains will then begin a regular service along many of New Zealand’s major scenic rail routes through both North and South Islands. From January 2007 people will once again be able to travel behind historic steam locomotives through stunning scenery on lines previously closed to passengers.
“Great New Zealand Steam Journeys” will be taking people on a 14 day journey from Auckland through New Zealand to Queenstown. They will also offer 6 and 8 day journeys for those wishing to explore just the North or South Island.
Founder of the company, Paul Hashfield, believes he has found the right combination of scenery, sightseeing and steam to attract visitors and locals alike: “Rail based holidays are growing in popularity all over the world. Originally we were just going to target overseas tourists, but the ratings success of TV’s Off the Rails has shown us that New Zealanders are really interested in rail and are just as welcome on our steam journeys as our overseas visitors.”
For much of the journey lovingly restored historic steam locomotives, built between the 1920’s and 1950’s, will be hauling a vintage set of old fashioned wooden carriages with outside balconies and pull down windows. (See photo attached)
Bookings for the Dunedin Centenary Steam Journey are on 0800 444 673
More information: On the Dunedin Centenary: http://www.dunedinstation.co.nz
On the forthcoming New Zealand Steam Journeys: http://www.GreatNZSteamJourneys.co.nz
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