First steam journey on the Overlander

22 May 2006

First steam journey on the Overlander

Steam returned to the lower North Island Main Trunk line Saturday when the Overlander was pulled by a WAB class steam locomotive between Feilding and Ohakune return, to the pleasure of the many passengers and local residents who turned out to experience and support the occasion.

The Overlander, which runs daily between Wellington and Auckland, will be pulled by one of only two remaining 1927 WAB class steam engines each fortnight through to August.

Ross Hayward, Group General Manager Rail Passenger, says “Steam excursions were trialled last year on the Overlander with great success, and it was a pleasure to see the first steam trip this year enjoyed by so many”

“There has been a lot of interest and its important for people to book as seats are limited and each Saturday is proving to be very popular with the public.”

The next trip will take place Saturday 03 June, and run each fortnight until the last on 26 August 2006.

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