Historic Steam Locomotive Restoration Project Aims to Revitalize New Zealand Tourism
A dedicated group of railway enthusiasts in Southland, New Zealand, is undertaking a aspiring project to restore a 19th-century locomotive, once considered the “lifeblood of the New Zealand railways,” to its former glory. The effort promises a boost to regional tourism and a unique glimpse into the nation’s rich railway heritage.
A legacy of Steam
The locomotive, designated F150, is a member of the F class of trains originally manufactured in Glasgow, Scotland, in the late 1800s. These locomotives quickly became some of the most widely used in New Zealand during the peak of steam travel. After being retired from service in the 1950s, the heritage train enjoyed a varied second life, serving as a popular feature in an Invercargill playground and touring throughout the country before eventually returning to the South Island.
Southern Steam Charitable Trust Leads the Charge
Now, the Southern Steam Charitable Trust is spearheading the effort to return the F150 to working condition. According to the Trust’s chairman, Lindsay Buckingham, the project is driven by a desire to not only preserve a piece of history but also to “boost regional tourism – and ‘out of mischief.'” The Trust envisions the refurbished locomotive offering scenic journeys along the recently mothballed Ohai line,previously used to transport coal from a local mine until its closure in 2023. Potential routes also include trips from Invercargill to Bluff and participation in various local events.
Restoration Challenges and Community Support
The restoration process is proving to be a importent undertaking.Extensive rust and corrosion have compromised many of the locomotive’s components, requiring considerable rebuilding efforts. Despite the challenges, Buckingham emphasized the power of collective effort, stating, “many hands make light work.”
The Trust has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the local community, with individuals offering their skills, discounts, and contributions to the $1 million fundraising campaign. A trustee, Roger Beattie, noted that, “These are challenging times at the moment but if we can get the funding in place, we do anticipate that we could have the project basically up and running in a year’s time.”
A Call for Donations
Buckingham highlighted the importance of every contribution, sharing that even small, regular donations – such as one donor’s consistent $10 bi-weekly gift – make a difference. The Trust is actively seeking larger funders and continuing to submit grant applications, expressing confidence in their ability to secure the necessary funds. The charity is optimistic that the train will be operational in time for the Christmas season this year.
Why, Who, What, and How did it end?
Why: The Southern Steam Charitable Trust is restoring the F150 locomotive to preserve New Zealand’s railway heritage and boost regional tourism in Southland.
Who: The project is led by the Southern Steam Charitable Trust,spearheaded by Chairman Lindsay Buckingham,and relies on support from the local community and volunteers.
What: The Trust is undertaking a $1 million restoration of the F150 locomotive, a 19th-century steam train originally built in Glasgow, scotland. the locomotive had suffered extensive rust and corrosion.
How did it end? The article doesn’t detail a completed ending, but reports the project is ongoing. The Trust is actively fundraising and anticipates the locomotive could be operational within a year, with a goal of running scenic routes like the Ohai line and potentially being ready for the Christmas season. The project’s success hinges on securing the remaining funding.
