Taranaki Media
Stories
Events
Videos
Places
Marketing

Watch: "Big Red Train" arrives in Taranaki

Watch: "Big Red Train" arrives in Taranaki
Tony Skilling

Tony Skilling

26 February 2026

EventsEvents New Plymouth
Steam Incorporated's iconic Big Red Train has steamed into Taranaki for AmeriCARna, with heritage rail trips running all weekend.

The Steam Incorporated "Big Red Train" has arrived in Taranaki! We captured it passing through Inglewood last night during AmeriCARna. There's a range of heritage rail experiences available today and tomorrow – details below:

🚂 FRIDAY 27 FEB: The Americarna Cruiser

Follow the mass convoy of classic American cars from New Plymouth to South Taranaki. Depart the Wind Wand at 10:05am.

Choose from three premium packages:

• The Need for Speed: Direct transport to the Hāwera Acceleration Display.

• Refuel & Refresh: An 18+ exclusive Gin Tasting and lunch at the Fenton St Distillery in Stratford.

• Echoes of the Past: Admission and transport to the world-class Tawhiti Museum.

🚂 SATURDAY 28 FEB: Lepperton Shuttles

Quick, one-hour round trips departing the New Plymouth Wind Wand at 10:10am, 11:15am, 12:20pm, and 1:25pm. The perfect addition for families attending the AmeriCARnival in the CBD. Family passes (2 Adults, 2 Children) are available for $120.

🚂 SATURDAY 28 FEB: The Stratford Express

An afternoon scenic rail journey to Stratford. Departs the Wind Wand at 2:30pm, offering a 40-minute stopover in Stratford to view the historic Da Class locomotives up close before the return journey.

🎟️ HOW TO SECURE YOUR SEATS:

To avoid disappointment, secure your tickets online at https://steaminc.org.nz/book-train-trip/americarna-rail-experiences/ or call the bookings team directly on 0800 783 264.

Big Red Train Steam Inc Heritage Rail AmeriCARna Train

Taranaki Media is committed to transparency. We maintain strict editorial independence, adhere to NZ Media Council Principles and clearly label all sponsored content. We occasionally use AI tools to assist with research and draft-creation. Read our full Ethics, AI & Disclosures Policy to learn more.

Would you ride a heritage steam train through Taranaki? What route would you love to see?

Join the conversation

More Stories

Truck Show aims to raise money for Taranaki Retreat
Charity

Truck Show aims to raise money for Taranaki Retreat

A popular Taranaki truck show is rolling into Bell Block this weekend, with all proceeds going to a charity close to the industry's heart.

Tony Skilling1 month ago
Watch: Air Force aerobatic show in New Plymouth
Events

Watch: Air Force aerobatic show in New Plymouth

The RNZAF Black Falcons put on a spectacular aerobatic display over New Plymouth as part of AmeriCARna festivities.

Tony Skilling1 month ago
AmeriCARna 2026 kicks off
Events

AmeriCARna 2026 kicks off

Nearly 700 American vehicles have officially hit the road in Taranaki, firing up their engines for a coastal cruise to Opunake Beach to kick off AmeriCARna 2026.

Tony Skilling1 month ago
View All Stories