It might be decades since the heyday of rail in Thames, when the town was even building and overhauling wagons as a significant part of local industry, but the Thames Small Gauge Railway is still rolling on – and it’s often run off its rails.

Yes, if you’re looking for something fun for the kids? How about the Thames Small Gauge Railway near Thames waterfront?

Enjoy miniature train rides for families along 900 meters of track running along the picturesque Thames foreshore. It only costs $2 per ride for 3-year-olds and over. Group bookings any time, by prior arrangement.

Of course, it is weather permitting, but if it’s not raining, see the hours below and get along to have some fun!

You could also consider booking the train rides for a birthday party or other gathering. There are some picnic tables close by in Victoria Park, green lawns for picnic blankets, toilets nearby, and rubbish bins. There’s even PakNSav a quick walk away if you forget anything for the party.

The Rail Heritage Trust owns the station assets and leases them out to rail heritage groups such as in Thames. The trust is funded by KiwiRail. A keen group of volunteers – like Dennis Blake, quoted in this Herald article about the service – keep the experience rolling for locals and tourists alike.

See below for a video of the train in action.

Thames Small Gauge Railway Location
The Thames Small Gauge Railway track runs running through Victoria Park, just north of the Goldfields Mall. You can find it at the west end of Cochrane Street (waterfront end).

Hours
October to April (inclusive); every Sunday 10 am to 3 pm
May to September (inclusive); the 2nd; 10 am to 3 pm
Weather permitting.

Contact

Brown Street, Thames, New Zealand