Glenbrook Vintage Railway

The Glenbrook Vintage Railway is a heritage steam railway located in Waiuku, New Zealand.

The railway is based on part of the old Waiuku branch line which opened in 1922. The fully working railway that is the Glenbrook Vintage Railway today is a testament to the vision, dedication, and hard work of the passionate volunteers who fundraised to acquire locomotives and carriages from around the country, as well as cutting back the gorse that had overgrown the railway line using machetes. The railway offers a nostalgic 15 km return trip back in time through the beautiful rural Franklin countryside, aboard their lovingly restored vintage steam train.

During the 1-hour journey, passengers can enjoy the scenic views of the countryside and learn about the history of the railway. The train operates from Labour Weekend (late October) to Queens Birthday weekend (early June), and visitors can check their website for open days and to book. The railway offers different packages for visitors, including steam train rides, a 15 km return journey back in time through the rural Franklin countryside, and guided tours. The pricing for adults is $12.00, and children under two years old can ride for free. The railway also offers a family ticket for $65, which includes two adults and up to four children.

The Glenbrook Vintage Railway is owned by the Glenbrook Vintage Railway Trust Board, and Timothy Kerwin is the General Manager of the Charitable Trust. The railway has a number of historic station buildings in its care, all being from former New Zealand Railways stations. Glenbrook Station's terminal building is made up of the original Waiuku Branchline Glenbrook station and Patumahoe station buildings. The railway also has a fully restored ex Papakura turntable, and the box controls all signals at Glenbrook, the western end mainline points, and the points to the fully restored ex Papakura turntable. The Glenbrook Vintage Railway hosts several events throughout the year, including school holiday trips, day trips, and guided tours. Visitors can check their website for operating days scheduled between late October to early June. The railway also offers special trips, such as the ultimate Australian Rail Safari and the ultimate Melbourne and surrounds trip.

Overall, the Glenbrook Vintage Railway is a premier heritage railway experience in New Zealand, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the beauty of the rural Franklin countryside aboard a lovingly restored vintage steam train.