05/06/2026
🚂🌊 Tomorrow, the River City Express heads west!
Steam Incorporated's 111-year-old steam locomotive, Ab 608 "Passchendaele", will be stretching its legs on the mainline as it hauls the River City Express from the Kāpiti Coast through the Manawatū and on to Whanganui for a day of heritage rail adventure.
Expect plenty of steam, sound, and spectacle as the train tackles the grades north of Palmerston North and makes its way through some of the lower North Island's most picturesque railway scenery. We're also looking forward to catching up with our good friends from the PS Waimarie , who will be welcoming many of our passengers aboard for what will be their final public sailing before heading into dry dock for maintenance.
Whether you're travelling onboard, watching from a station platform, or catching a glimpse from a level crossing, it's set to be a memorable day on the rails.
📸 Chasing the train? We'd love to see your photos, but please remember:
⚠️ Stay well clear of the railway corridor, never trespass on railway property, and obey all signage and instructions. A photo is never worth risking your safety!
Here's to another great day of keeping New Zealand's railway heritage alive and well. See you trackside, or onboard! ❤️
