Eketahuna welcomes rail return

ON TRACK: Railcar driver John Rumbal is all set to hit the tracks ahead.WTA100514CKSTATION09

As far as Charlie Death is concerned it will be full steam ahead for regular trains coming and going at Eketahuna's newly reopened railway station.

More than 200 people were at the official opening of the railway station on Saturday with train tickets on the day sold out moments after going on sale, the community stalwart said.

"I couldn't get over all the people. The train rides went really well. If you didn't get your tickets early enough you missed out ... everyone was so excited because it's been 30 years since the line was closed."

The steam train, Eketahuna Express was scheduled to stop in at the station yesterday as well, he said.

He hopes this is the beginning of regular trains bringing tourists to the region.

On February 24 next year, a steam train from Paekakariki is due to stop in also.

"It's a work in progress. It only took two and half months to get the building here ... it's really tantalising. Hopefully there will be many more trains. It's something the local people can be proud of," Mr Death said.

The Masterton to Woodville railway line first reached Eketahuna on April 8, 1889. Then about 30 years ago the railway station was closed.

The Pahiatua Railcar Society negotiated for the old Waikanae railway station, which had been originally offered to Carterton, to be moved to Eketahuna.

The building was moved on site in March and had since undergone a transformation.

It was officially opened on Saturday.