Heritage 'big red train' returns to Taranaki for AmeriCARna weekend rail experiences

The roar of V8 engines won’t be the only heavy metal turning heads during AmeriCARna this year, with confirmation that Steam Incorporated is bringing its heritage train experiences back to the region. From 26 February to 1 March, the iconic “big red train” will be sharing the limelight with hundreds of classic cars, offering a rare chance to see Taranaki from the tracks.

For locals, this is a bit of a novelty. The railway line into New Plymouth is typically the domain of freight trains hauling logs, since Taranaki isn’t on the main passenger trunk. It’s not often we get the chance to sit back with a drink and watch the Taranaki countryside from a new perspective, in the comfort of a classic carriage.

Friday from New Plymouth to South Taranaki and back: “The AmeriCARna Cruiser “

Passengers have three choices for the day out in Stratford / South Taranaki:

• The Need for Speed: Head to AmeriCARna’s Acceleration Display to watch muscle cars put the pedal down.
• Refuel & Refresh: An R18 option that includes a stop in Stratford for a gin tasting and lunch at Fenton Street Arts Collective & Distillery, followed by a bus to Hāwera.
• Tawhiti Museum: A bus transfer to Nigel Ogle’s world-class Tawhiti Museum. If you haven’t seen the life-size figures and scale models here yet, it’s well worth the trip.

Saturday from New Plymouth to Lepperton and back: “The Lepperton Shuttle “

Saturday is generally the big day for families. “The Lepperton Shuttle” trains are running four times throughout the day (10:10 am, 11:15 am, 12:20 pm, and 1:25 pm).

These are one-hour round trips departing from the Wind Wand. The train heads out past the suburbs to Lepperton, swaps ends, and comes back. It’s a perfect length for younger kids who might not sit still for a longer journey, and it drops you right back in the CBD to check out all the AmeriCARnival action.

Saturday from New Plymouth to Stratford and back: “The Stratford Express “

Later on Saturday afternoon at 2:30pm, the “Stratford Express” offers a slightly longer run. You’ll head out through the cutting, past Inglewood, and down to Stratford for a quick stop before returning.

Important Details

Boarding at the Wind Wand and other stops is from ground level using steps, as there are no platforms. It’s a bit of a climb, so it isn’t suitable for those with limited mobility.