24 August 2012
MEDIA RELEASE – photos supplied

The ‘Orient Express’ comes to the Bay

You could be forgiven for wondering what a 1930s steam train is doing on the roads around Hawke’s Bay, but the region’s newest tourist and transport option, the Hawke’s Bay Express, has no need for tracks.

With the look and feel of a full-size steam train and decked out in full Art Deco luxury reminiscent of the Orient Express, the Hawke’s Bay Express is a 56 seater ‘road train’, a passenger vehicle like no other.

With two carriages decked out in lavish style including velvet seats, brass detailing and full height viewing windows, the road train fits seamlessly with Hawke’s Bay’s famous Art Deco style.

For owner Will van Asch, getting the Hawke’s Bay Express on the road has taken more than two years and involved more than 30 local suppliers. Jumping from his corporate job into vehicle design and manufacture has been “a real adventure”. “Bringing the style and sophistication of the Orient Express to Hawke’s Bay and then putting it on the road has been a challenge but the reviews so far have been fantastic and people are clearly enjoying the ride,” says Mr van Asch.

From next month, the Hawke’s Bay Express will run Art Deco tours from the Napier i-Site and will be available for private hire. “We have had so much positive feedback already and bookings are now coming in for the summer season. The Express will also provide a unique way of travelling for wedding parties, wine tours and private / corporate hire.”

With wide appeal to locals and tourists alike, the Hawke’s Bay Express is set to be a permanent attraction on the roads around the Bay. For bookings, check out the www.hbexpress.co.nz website.

ENDS

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