Vintage tram back on track after 64 years

Ian Chamberlain and Lady Kraken were among the first passengers to ride on the No12 tram yesterday. Photo/Stuart Munro

The barrier arm came down, the conductor rang the bell, and the No12 tram pulled off with its first paying passengers in more than 60 years.

Hundreds of people came down to the Tram Shed to watch the 102-year-old tram make its first trip along the waterfront to the PS Waimarie berth, and many of them queued patiently to make that trip themselves.

Wanganui Tramways Trust trustee Ed Boyd said the day was the reward for the many years of hard work volunteers had put into restoring the vintage electric tram and its tracks.

"We're very happy, especially as the event was organised in such a short time."

The tram last ran in 1950 and was donated to Wanganui by Dave Harre in the 1990s. Since then, the trust and Wanganui District Council have worked together to get it operating again.

The ceremonies began with a short speech from Deputy Mayor Hamish McDouall.

"Today the No12 tram takes its first paying customers - that's you guys. So congratulations on making history," he said to the crowd of several hundred.

Paulene Emerson was asked to cut the ribbon, in honour of her late husband Martin, who was one of the driving forces behind having the tram restored.

"This was his dream," Mrs Emerson said.

"He was so devoted to the project - he even went to Australia to get parts for the tram. Martin would have been very proud if he had been here today."

Mrs Emerson and several family members were on the first trip along the waterfront.

"It brings back memories of riding the trams in Wellington."

The first passenger on the tram was Mabel Edmonds, who was born in 1912 - the same year the No12 tram was made.

As the tram pulled off with its first load of passengers, the crowd cheered and clapped.

Despite the cold weather, there was a festive atmosphere at the Tram Shed, with vintage vehicles on display.

Mr Boyd said the trust hoped it could run the tram at least one day a week.