For history buffs and families looking for a slightly different pace to the high-octane energy of Americarna, Friday 27th Feb offers a unique way to explore South Taranaki’s heritage.
While the petrolheads head to the Acceleration Display, Steam Incorporated has curated a special package that combines the nostalgia of 1950s rail travel with one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed private museums.
Your day begins at 10:05am at the New Plymouth Wind Wand. You will board the “Big Red Train,” hauled by vintage Da Class diesel-electric locomotives, and head south. This isn’t just a standard train ride, you’ll be trailing the massive Americarna convoy as it cruises down State Highway 3, offering a unique vantage point of the chrome-clad classic cars from the comfort of your carriage.
Upon arrival in Hāwera, this package, dubbed “Echoes of the Past,”includes a bus transfer directly to the world-renowned Tawhiti Museum.
Created by artist Nigel Ogle, Tawhiti is widely regarded as the best private museum in the country. It’s famous for using super-realistic life-size exhibits and scale models to capture the past.
- The Dioramas: Explore thousands of square metres of displays, from the Musket Wars to pioneer farming, all created on-site in the “Body Shop”.
- Farm Power Hall: A massive collection of vintage farm machinery and tractors, perfect for those who appreciate the mechanical history of the region.
- Traders & Whalers: While general entry is included, visitors often rave about the optional underground boat ride that takes you through the history of the Taranaki coast (ticketed separately inside).
- Mr Badger’s Café: A charming spot to grab a coffee surrounded by “Wind in the Willows” inspired models.
The beauty of this package is that everything is organised for you. After soaking up the history, the bus will transfer you back to the train for the return journey to New Plymouth, arriving in time to enjoy the Friday night cruising in the CBD.
