Goldfields Railway, Waihi

In the early 1900s the expansion of the Waihi mine meant that more materials and people were needed in the region and so the government of the day linked Waihi to the main trunk line in 1905. Further expansion 23 years later and Waihi connected with the east coast and the port of Tauranga. The steep gradients, the tight curves and the 9km long tunnel on this section of the track became difficult and expensive to maintain for the ever-increasing freight traffic and so in the early 1980's the track was dismantled leaving just a short section between Waihi and Waikino. Soon after the Goldfields Steam Train Society purchased the track with the objective to run a passenger service using heritage machinery and preserving this district's railway history for the enjoyment of future generations. Today you can enjoy a relaxing trip on the Goldfields Railway pulled by one of the many restored engines as you travel along the Ohinemuri River.

To see the train timetable, prices and for operating days visit Waihi Rail.