A group of Southland, New Zealand, train enthusiasts are working to restore a 19th-century locomotive, known as the F150, which once served as the “lifeblood of the New Zealand railways.” The project aims to boost regional tourism and preserve a piece of the country’s railway history.
Restoring a Railway Icon
The F150 steam locomotive was one of the F class of trains manufactured in Glasgow in the late 1800s. The model became one of the most widely used in New Zealand during its peak popularity.
After being retired in the 1950s, the heritage train was repurposed as a feature in an Invercargill playground and toured the country before returning to the South Island.
The Southern Steam Charitable Trust plans to return the train to working condition. Chairman Lindsay Buckingham said the effort is also about keeping the train “out of mischief.”
Restoration Challenges and Future Plans
The trust hopes the refurbished train will offer journeys on the recently mothballed Ohai line, which was used to move coal until 2023, as well as trips from Invercargill to Bluff and other events.
Restoration work is proving difficult, with some parts heavily rusted and requiring rebuilding.
Buckingham said the task is significant, but “many hands make light work.” The trust has thanked locals for offering skills, discounts, and support for the $1 million fundraising effort.
Southern Steam Train trustee Roger Beattie said, “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.”
Buckingham added that “every little bit helps,” noting that one donor contributes $10 every two weeks.
The charity is aiming to have the train operational by Christmas this year.
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