Trip recalls era of steam

A steam train ride from Paekakariki to Masterton attracted about 600 people last weekend in an effort to raise fund for Life Flight Trust.

The Eketahuna Express is an annual excursion through Kapiti, Manawatu and Wairarapa and this year raised about $1500 for the charity.

People were able to take long or short trips, and were dropped off at various events and activities from the Woodville races to Pukaha Mt Bruce.

John Bovis, from organisers Steam Incorporated, said it was an "excellent" day.

"The time of the year and the destinations all sort of works in well together," he said.

In true vintage style, the loco support crew were dressed in overalls appropriate for the era while the rest of the crew donned uniforms.

Mr Bovis said all the feedback from passengers had been positive.

The Pahiatua Railcar Society family fun day was another one of the stops along the journey.

The day included trips on the vintage railcar RM31 Tokomaru, jigger rides in the station yard, and a bouncy castle alongside food stalls.

President Don Selby said although there weren't as many people as previous events - especially children - the event had gone well.

"Overall, it was quite successful," he said.

Mr Selby was unsure how much money they had raised to go towards general operations of the society.