1. The Rimutaka Incline Railway Heritage Trust
Rimutaka Incline Railway Heritage Trust Annual Report 1 July 2005 – 30 June 2006
1.1 About Us
The Rimutaka Incline Railway Heritage Trust is a Charitable Trust established to plan, fund, reinstate and operate a heritage railway on former railway route between Upper Hutt and Featherston, which will be an internationally significant tourist attraction.
1.2 Our mission
The Railway’s mission is to reinstate and operate a heritage railway as a self-sustaining not-for-profit business. The Railway will operate between Wellington, Upper Hutt and Featherston, including the Fell-worked Rimutaka Incline.
By planning and constructing a heritage railway between Maymorn and Featherston the Trust will be: ‘Building a Sanctuary for Steam’
Route of the Rimutaka Incline Railway, 40km north-west of Wellington, New Zealand.
1.3 Objectives
The Rimutaka Incline Railway has identified the following long-term objectives:
- To plan, fund, reinstate and operate a tourist heritage railway on former railway route between Upper Hutt and Featherston, and any other directly or indirectly connected railway;
- Acquire by agreement, lease or purchase such lands as are required to allow the reinstatement of the former railway route between Upper Hutt and Featherston and any other such lands as will further the objectives of the Trust;
- Acquire by agreement, lease or purchase such items of railway rolling stock, tools and material to facilitate the construction and operation of the tourist heritage railway;
- Raise funds for and facilitate the conservation and protection of the former railway route and heritage structures and features hereon;
- To plan, fund and construct appropriate buildings, structures, infrastructure and facilities that facilitate the construction and operation of the tourist heritage railway;
- To arrange interpretative displays for the public, to promote knowledge and education of heritage railways, and in particular the Rimutaka Incline Railway, the historic factors that lead to its creation and raise awareness of the personalities involved;
- To create a service provider for the operation of the tourist heritage railway with a level of service that realises the potential of an internationally significant tourist attraction;
- Facilitate research, discussion, education and interchange of information on topics related to the Rimutaka Incline Railway and environs.
Twin Dg locomotives numbers 750, 751 stand on Kaitoke loop with a goods train from Wellington. The Trust plans to replicate this scene, including items such as water vats, semaphore signals and heritage train.
Photo: Le Cren for New Zealand Railways, Archives New Zealand / Te Rua Mahara o te Kawangatanga Wellington Office: [Archives reference: AAVK W3493 B-6435].
1.4 Contribution
The Rimutaka Incline Railway will make a significant and ongoing contribution to New Zealand’s tourism sector. It will make a major contribution to growth of tourism in the Wellington Region, to the mutual benefit of existing tourist attractions.
The Railway will, through its own efforts and by collaboration with other heritage railway operators, make a significant contribution to New Zealand's railway heritage. Overall visitation numbers to New Zealand heritage and commercial railway operations will increase as a direct result of the Railway and its international significance. Existing heritage locomotives and rolling stock will have additional purpose and revenue-earning opportunities, increasing confidence in the long-term sustainability of heritage railways.
1.5 Partnerships
The Rimutaka Incline Railway will collaborate with the tourism sector, other railway operators or other parties where this enhances the heritage railway experience or yields increased revenue. Partnership opportunities with suitable organisations have been explored, and discussions initiated.
The Rimutaka Incline Railway project is currently included in the Upper Hutt City Council’s Long-Term Council Community Plan as a no-cost partnership.
1.6 Treaty of Waitangi
The Rimutaka Incline Railway is committed to the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi. We seek to work with Maori in the spirit of partnership embodied in the Treaty of Waitangi. We accept our responsibility to bring that commitment to all aspects of the work of the Railway. To assist in meeting different needs in an acceptable way, we have initiated consultation and will continue to consult and where appropriate form alliances with urban and Iwi Maori organisations, Maori corporations and consultancies.
Last day at Summit. On the last day of operations at Summit, passengers heading to the Carterton show observe proceedings at Summit. Fell locomotives have been placed at the head ready for the descent down the incline to Cross Creek on 29 October 1955.
Photo: Morgan for New Zealand Railways, Archives New Zealand / Te Rua Mahara o te Kawangatanga Wellington Office: [Archives reference: AAVK W3493 D-1612].
2. Chairperson’s Report
The Rimutaka Incline Railway Heritage Trust continues to be dedicated to the vision to reinstate a heritage railway over the Rimutaka Range since its inception in 2003. The Wellington Region will benefit greatly from the addition of such an authentic cultural heritage attraction, which will be an internationally significant tourist attraction in its own right.
On 29 October 2005 the Trust celebrated the Launch of the Rimutaka Incline Railway at Maymorn, exactly 50 years after the last train ascended the Rimutaka Incline. The launch was celebrated the night before by a cocktail and fundraising evening. A coach trip from Maymorn to Summit via the railway formation, including Tunnel Gully to Kaitoke, was included.
Chairperson Hugh McCracken addressing the crowd during the launch ceremony. Photo: Glenn Fitzgerald
Turning the first sod
At 11am, Saturday 29 October 2005, the first sod was turned by the Hon. Paul Swain, M.P. for Rimutaka, and Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy. A first length of track was laid past the ‘zero-peg’ in the Maymorn station yard, where the Trust plans to build a heritage station building, locomotive shed and future operational base for the railway.
Hon. Paul Swain spoke of the potential of the project as a tourist attraction for Upper Hutt and the Wellington region and Mayor Wayne Guppy recognised the potential and significance of the railway project, noting the connection Upper Hutt had with the Rimutaka Incline.
A crowd of nearly 200 people gathered at Maymorn to witness the launch of the Rimutaka Incline Railway. Representatives were present from a number of organisations, including Ontrack, Land Transport New Zealand, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Upper Hutt City Council, New Zealand Railway and Locomotive Society, Mainline Steam Trust, Wairarapa Railway Preservation Society, Marklin Model Railway Club, and Lions Club of Rimutaka, amongst others. Many residents of Upper Hutt, including those from the Te Marua, Maymorn and Mangaroa area also came to the event.
The Trust continues to participate in the Upper Hutt community, educating the public of its vision to establish a heritage railway between Upper Hutt and southern Wairarapa. It has also educated the public of the significance of the former railway route, and in particular the unique Fell-worked Rimutaka Incline. By having a presence at public events in Upper Hutt and the wider Wellington Region, the Trust has also been able to consult with the public on its plans.
Membership of the Trust has grown at a steady rate since it was first available in December 2003, and at the end of this financial year there were seventy members, both individual and corporate, an increase of twenty over the previous year. The Internet continues to be used to deliver information to members, stakeholders and the public in general, including newsletters, press releases, and research topics. The information is distributed to a community much wider than the immediate membership — newsletters are sent to twice as many stakeholders as the Trust has members, prior to publication on the Trust’s website for general consumption.
The Trust has made steady progress at the Maymorn site since securing the lease on the Maymorn land in July 2005. Requirements for a security fence were identified, providing for the safety of rail personnel passengers and the public, and providing a reasonable level of security. A successful grant application made to Hutt Mana Charitable Trust and the fence is currently under construction.
In addition the Trust has almost completed construction of a pedestrian crossing at the North end of the site. The pedestrian crossing will provide safe passage for people passing through the Rimutaka Incline Railway site to and from Tranz Metro trains at Maymorn station. It will also provide security for the site for the western side of the pedestrian crossing, which will be flanked by security fence and gates.
During the year there were a number of opportunities acquire a variety of rolling stock, which will eventually form part of the Trust’s heritage fleet. Perhaps the most significant acquisition was securing, funding and transporting five 56-foot carriages and matching guard’s van from Ohakune to Maymorn. Security fencing was constructed and completed by Trust members at the same time. The transfer of the carriages was made possible by a grant of $25,000 from the Rimutaka Licensing Trust.
As well as the carriages the Trust was also donated three former guard’s van (FM) modules.
A great deal of planning work continues to go on behind the scenes. This year the Trust has made significant progress towards the planned replica heritage station building, thanks to funding from Trust House Charitable Trust. Conservation Architect Chris Cochran has produced a faithful interpretation of the former Waimate station building design of George Troup dating from 1907, retaining all the essential elements of the design, whilst meeting current building regulations. Results from this work are anticipated to be ready in the third quarter of 2006.
The proposed rail vehicle shed also occupied much of the Trust’s time this year. The structure will conform to a heritage twin-road design dating back to 1911, whilst constructed from high-strength, low maintenance materials. Considerable work went into design work, seeking quotes for services and materials, including design and build options, as well as an extensive amount of supporting documentation. The initial requirements for the shed was the conservation and protection of the Trust’s six carriages, but it will also provide space for other rail vehicles, as well as an initial all-weather base for Trust activities at the Maymorn site.
Work also continued in parallel with funding applications on a resource consent application to fully cover rail utilities and structures, tourist and educational facilities at the Maymorn site.
In closing I would like to extend my thanks to members of the Board and those who have been co-opted to assist in running the Trust. The achievements of the past year are testimony to their commitment to the Trust.
Hugh McCracken, Chairperson.
3. Core deliverables
A business plan for 2004-2008 was completed on 21 September 2004, providing an overall framework for the operation of the Trust. This was the result of months of planning, consultation and analysis work. Recommendations from an Economic Feasibility Study undertaken on the tourist-heritage railway proposal by BERL (Business Economic Research Limited, an independent Wellington consultancy) were incorporated into the plan.
Outcomes and strategies were determined for a number of key activities for the Trust. Progress towards achieving these outcomes, and discussion of strategies is incorporated in this report.
3.1 Reinstating and operating tourist-heritage railway
The Trust has the objective “to plan, fund, reinstate and operate a tourist heritage railway on former railway route between Upper Hutt and Featherston, and any other directly or indirectly connected railway”.
The Trust has concentrated its efforts on planning the reinstatement and subsequent operation of the tourist-heritage railway during 2004-2005.
3.1.1 Planning
Progress has been made on the following planning areas:
- A replica Troup-designed station building
- Rail vehicle shed planning
- Resource Consent application
- Connecting route
Station building
Plans for a heritage station building at Maymorn are progressing well, with a set of elevation and layout plans received from Cochran & Murray, Conservation Architects, at the end of March.
A full set of foundation, structural and detail drawings will follow shortly and are awaited with much anticipation.
The Trust remains indebted to the Rimutaka Licensing Trust for a grant of $19,200 towards the architectural work.
Standard drawing — Two Road Engine Shed, CCE drawing #18858 dated 29 June 1911.
Rail vehicle shed planning
In order to protect, conserve, restore and maintain its current fleet of heritage carriages and provide for future steam and diesel locomotives, the Trust plans to build a rail vehicle shed at Maymorn, Upper Hutt. The shed is being modelled on the “NZR Standard Drawing Two Road Engine Shed” (CCE 18858) of 1911. The Trust wishes the shed to conform as far as is practicable to key features of the historical design, including: roof pitch, door dimensions, style and position, barge boards and eaves.
Resource Consent
Work has commenced on Resource Consent application to Upper Hutt City Council for rail utility and structures, tourist and educational facilities at the Maymorn site.
Connecting route at Maymorn
A connecting route between Maymorn Station and the heritage railway route near Tunnel Gully is being investigated.
3.1.2 Planning — railway infrastructure
Detailed planning work was undertaken during the year on exploring route options, where these exist, investigating the heritage route between Tunnel Gully, Kaitoke and Summit, connection to the national rail network, structures, sources of suitable track materials and a new walkway.
3.1.2.1 Connection to mainline
The Trust still has approval in principle from Ontrack for a future mainline connection at Maymorn.
3.1.2.2 Station facilities
Maymorn railway heritage precinct plans and project plan have been finalised. Prime requirements for the precinct include the provision of rail facilities capable of handling initially 6-coach, and later 12-coach trains, crossing movements, interchange between the Rimutaka Incline Railway and other rail operators, rail vehicle storage, maintenance and servicing facilities.
3.1.2.3 Construction Sites
Railway land at Maymorn will be used as a temporary construction site, amongst other uses outlined in this report.
3.1.3 Funding
Funding for the railway has come from the following sources:
- Three grants were received during the year. Two from Trust House Charitable Trust and one from Hutt Mana Charitable Trust.
- Subscriptions.
- Donations from members and the public.
- Sales of merchandise to public and members.
Applications for donations / grants were made to four organisations:
- Trust House Charitable Trust for costs associated with transporting six railway carriages from Ohakune to Maymorn (approved)
- Rotary Heretaunga for a contribution towards construction of a station platform at Maymorn (declined)
- New Zealand Charitable Trust for materials and equipment hire for the construction of a security fence at Maymorn (pending)
- Hutt Mana Charitable Trust for materials and equipment hire for the construction of a security fence at Maymorn (approved in part)
- New Zealand Lottery Grants Board, Environment and Heritage Committee for funding of a rail vehicle shed at Maymorn (pending)
- Goodwood Trust for trees to be planted at Summit (approved).
3.1.4 Reinstating
None of the heritage route was yet available for reinstatement.
3.1.5 Operating
Representatives of the Trust attended the Federation of Rail Organisations of New Zealand (FRONZ) Annual Conference at Nelson during Queens Birthday Weekend 2006. Attendance at the conference provides valuable networking opportunities with rail operators throughout the country, sessions on relevant and pertinent rail-related issues and developments, and visits to rail-related tourist attractions.
Hugh McCracken captured FRONZ delegates at the Nelson Railway, Founders Park, Nelson. Pleasingly the following people can be recognised, left to right: Reid McNaught, Paul Heighton (in doorway), Peter McCallum, Grant Craig.
3.2 Land acquisition
Good progress was made towards securing the railway corridor between Maymorn and Summit during the year.
- Negotiations to secure much of the Maymorn station yard culminated in the Trust securing a “licence to occupy” for a period of twenty years (renewable) on 14th July 2005.
- A connection between the Maymorn rail precinct and the heritage formation high above the Rimutaka Tunnel continued to receive attention.
- Contact was maintained with current and future neighbours through the Trust’s newsletters.
3.2.1 Land agreements
The Trust has reached “agreement in principle” with Ontrack (New Zealand Railways Corporation) for locating and operating on its rail corridor in the vicinity of the Maymorn Road underpass. A limited number of matters remain to be addressed to secure the first 500m of rail corridor northwards from land leased at Maymorn station.
3.2.2 Land leases
Access to most of the railway formation will be by way of lease or “licence to occupy”, including railway land at Maymorn, and that held by Greater Wellington Regional Council and the Department of Conservation.
3.2.3 Purchases
The Trust did not purchase any land during 2005-2006.
A proposal to establish a separate land purchasing company is still being explored.
3.3 Rail vehicles
In order to construct and operate the railway, the Trust must “acquire by agreement, lease or purchase such items of railway rolling stock, tools and material to facilitate the construction and operation of the tourist heritage railway”.
During 2005-06 The Trust acquired the following rail vehicles, which will form the basis of the Trust’s heritage fleet:
6 carriages donated to Trust
Carriage ‘A’ 1896 / 56113 passes under the Wairarapa line, Mangaroa Hill Road, 20 December 2005. Photo: Hugh McCracken.
The Trust is grateful to Paul Vincent of Ohakune for the generous donation of six carriages (five passenger cars plus matching guard’s van). They are of the 56-foot steel-clad main trunk type that were built in New Zealand railway workshops circa World War II. The Trust was delighted to obtain a grant from the Rimutaka Licensing Trust for $24,640 towards costs of relocating the carriages from Ohakune to Maymorn. The Trust would have not been able to secure the carriages without this assistance.
Cranes hired from Ohakune Engineering lift carriage A2000 onto a truck at Ohakune, early on 8 December 2005. Photo: Paul Vincent.
| Original No | TMS No | Year outshopped | Where built | Arrival date at Maymorn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1896 | A56113 | 1941 | Otahuhu | 20 Dec 2005 |
| A1914 | AL2044 | 1940 | Otahuhu | 21 Dec 2005 |
| A1916 | A56247 | 1939 | Otahuhu | 7 Dec 2005 |
| A1988 | A56750 | 1943 | Addington | 9 Dec 2005 |
| A2000 | A56868 | 1940 | Addington | 8 Dec 2005 |
| F605 | EA67715 | 1944 | Otahuhu | 23 Dec 2005 |
Colin Craddock and Peter Milburn position blocks during lowering operation at Maymorn. Photo: Hugh McCracken.
FM Guards van modules
Hugh McCracken, Chairperson of the Trust, assists with securing module GM97 on Hammond Brothers’ hiab-equipped truck. Photo: Glenn Fitzgerald.
Three former FM guard’s van modules were offered to the Trust in April 2006, including GM97 — originally part of FM1087, and GM96, originating from FM1070. GM97 was transported to the Trust’s Maymorn site on Saturday 20 May 2006, and placed into storage pending necessary remedial work. Module GM96 followed shortly afterwards on Wednesday 24 May.
3.3.1 Agreements
Discussions continued with rail vehicle owning groups and individuals with a view to forming railway vehicle agreements.
3.3.2 Leases
The Trust sought and obtained approval from the Rail Heritage Trust of New Zealand for the transfer of a rail heritage lease of two Q–class coal hopper wagons. The transport arrangements for the wagons are pending.
3.3.3 Purchases
No purchases were made during the year.
3.4 Conservation and protection of former railway route and heritage structures
A further objective of the Trust is to raise funds for and facilitate the conservation and protection of former railway route and heritage structures associated with the Rimutaka Incline Railway.
3.4.1 Fundraising and facilitation
The Trust raised funds to purchase and subsequently plant native trees at Summit in October 2005. The planting is symbolic of environmental reinstatement that the Trust wishes to facilitate at Summit and other portions of the route.
A good turnout was had for a second native tree planting day at Summit on 9 October 2005. Members of the Royal New Zealand Forest and Bird Society joined forces with the Trust to add a good number of seedlings to those planted at Summit in 2004. Photo: Hugh McCracken.
3.4.2 Heritage Conservation Management Plan
A Rimutaka Incline Railway Heritage Management Plan will be devised in order to provide policies and principles that will guide the long term reinstatement, restoration, preservation and protection of historic sites and structures that form or are associated with the Railway.
3.5 Buildings, structures, infrastructure and facilities for construction and operation of heritage railway
The Trust has the objective to plan, fund and construct buildings, structures, infrastructure and facilities for the construction and operation of a heritage railway. This includes construction sites, operational areas, station precincts, communications and rail operational systems.
3.5.1 Planning
Consultation has continued in the following ways:
- Information is available on the Trust’s web site;
- Articles in newsletters sent out to members, stakeholders and subsequently available on the Trust’s web site;
- Inclusion in displays at public events and speaking engagements;
- Meetings and continued information sharing with management and organisers of recreational and sporting facilities and events;
- Dialog continues with Greater Wellington Regional Council and Department of Conservation over access to railway formation in the Pakuratahi Forest and Rimutaka Forest Park.
3.5.1.1 Buildings and structures
East elevation (part) of Maymorn station building plan drafted for the Trust by Cochran & Murray, Conservation Architects. Dated 20 March 2006.
The following structure designs for the Maymorn railway heritage precinct have been prepared:
- A replica station building design of the notable designer George Troup, incorporating an information and discovery centre. The building will be in keeping with those historically associated with the Wellington to Masterton Railway. The former Waimate design has been selected, having adequate floor area for future requirements, and containing key features of a “Troup” design, including a pitched verandah, gabled wings and heavy corbels. It is hoped to reduce the extent of new design work by selecting an existing design. A design brief for a heritage station building was prepared, recommending the former Waimate station design, fulfilling most criteria, including period, capacity, functionality and style.
In mid-2005 the Trust commissioned Chris Cochran, a renowned conservation architect, to prepare working drawings and specifications in order to satisfy regulatory requirements for construction. Both drawings and supporting engineering work are at an advanced stage.
- Work is proceeding on the requirements for a rail vehicle shed at Maymorn. The shed will conform as far as is practicable to key features of the historical design, including: roof pitch, door dimensions, style and position, barge boards and eaves. Essentially the end elevations of the shed will closely match the old design, excepting for the provision of current rail vehicle clearances at the main doors. Windows will be omitted primarily for security reasons, but also to reduce framing and joinery costs. Smoke chutes will be omitted for similar reasons. These features may be incorporated into future shed extensions, or as and when the shed sees use by steam locomotives.
We also identified the need for pits, concrete floors and workshop space as a minimum requirement for maintenance and restoration activities. A floor plan was developed (included within this report) that provides sufficient space for 6 carriages and a locomotive, plus workshop space to the back of road #1, adjacent to an extensive pit facility.
We have undertaken an intensive period of design work followed, to determine how best to build the structure, as a relatively high-strength low maintenance building will be required. Two approaches to the necessary work presented themselves:
- Tendering for a complete design-and-build contract, or
- Undertaking in-house design, project management of sub-contracts, and a sizable voluntary labour contribution.
Quotations were sought, supporting documentation and evidence gathered, and funding applications prepared and submitted. The Trust will hear back on these applications in the next couple of months, and we hope to be in the position of accepting a complete design-and-build contract before the end of the year.
- Planning has been completed for services required at the Maymorn site. This included: power, water, sewer and telephone.
Power and water services are required at the future rail vehicle shed site initially, and in due course at the station building site. Underground ducting has been selected to bring the services on site from Parkes Line Road, to reduce visual impact. Quotes have been sought, and will be incorporated into funding applications.
- Design and logistical matters have been considered and finalised for the construction of a 120–metre long station platform. The platform edge design has been developed from the CCE 11612 design of 1903 that was specified for use with the ‘Troup’ station buildings.
Quotes have been received for materials and equipment hire necessary to construct the platform edge, and a funding application made, on the basis that the Trust would project-manage and provide labour for the construction of the platform.
- A track fundraising scheme is being developed, with main areas to complete including promotional materials and marketing plans. All track components can be sourced. The challenge is to obtain materials that are easily obtainable, have a low level of environmental impact, suit the heritage operation, are good for the local economy, and are available at reasonable cost while returning a low life-cycle cost. We are also mindful of security considerations associated with timber and steel sleepers, and rail in general.
It is most likely that the next lengths of track laid at the Maymorn site will be:
- At the Maymorn station platform, funded through the track fundraising scheme;
- At the pedestrian level crossing, to reduce future disruption to the crossing during more substantial tracklaying operations; and
- To transfer the carriages into the rail vehicle shed.
- Requirements for a security fence were identified, providing for the safety of rail personnel passengers and the public, and providing a reasonable level of security. Quotes for construction of the fence were received and grant applications made to Hutt Mana Charitable Trust (successful) and the New Zealand Community Trust (pending as at 30 June).
Work on the security fence along the Ontrack boundary commenced in May, and by the end of the period postholes had been drilled, and the first of many posts concreted into place.
- A pedestrian accessway from Parkes Line Road to the Tranz Metro station is being constructed, crossing both the mainline and future Trust railway lines. The crossing design was prepared in consultation with Ontrack, resulting in agreement on location, design and signage. By the end of June the portion of crossing abutting the Ontrack boundary was largely complete, and good progress was being made on the remainder.
2.4 cubic metres of ready-mix concrete was placed on 19 April 2006, completing the pavement surface of the first part of the Trust’s Maymorn pedestrian crossing (centre and right). On 22 April we continued placing concrete for the middle portion of the crossing, boxing for which can be seen to the left, the loop formation running in-between. Photo: Hugh McCracken.
3.5.2 Funding
Trust awarded $24,640 grant
In December 2005 the Trust was awarded $24,640 from the Rimutaka Licensing Trust towards the cost of relocating six 56-foot carriages from Ohakune to Maymorn.
Hutt-Mana grant for fence
In June the Trust received a $4,000 grant from the Hutt Mana Charitable Trust towards hire equipment charges and materials for a security fence at the Maymorn site.
A funding application to Rotary Heretaunga for station platform edge equipment hire and construction materials (declined).
3.5.3 Construction
The Trust was not in a position to commence construction of buildings or other major facilities.
3.6 Promotion, knowledge and education of the Rimutaka Incline Railway
The Trust promoted the Rimutaka Incline Railway in a number of ways, including interpretative displays, press releases leading to news items, advertisements, guest speaking appearances and through its newsletters and web site.
3.6.1 Interpretative displays
A number of interpretative displays were carried out during the year, including:
Railex
The Trust attended the Railex expo during 1-2 October 2005. The Trust’s stand was well patronised and presented an opportunity to discuss the project with the wider Wellington public.
Expressions
An exhibition of photographs, memorabilia of the Rimutaka Incline route and the Rimutaka Deviation from October 1955 was held from 22 October – 13 November 2005 at Expressions Arts and Entertainment Centre, Upper Hutt. It included displays and information on the Rimutaka Incline Railway Heritage Trust’s plans to reinstate a heritage railway between Upper Hutt, Kaitoke, Summit and beyond.
Demonstration Fell-incline track and interpretation in entranceway, Expressions. Photo: Hugh McCracken.
Upper Hutt Carnival
The Trust attended the Upper Hutt Carnival at Trentham Memorial Park on 25 February 2006. It was a chance to not only discuss the project but also to educate the public on the significance of the Rimutaka Incline.
Mangaroa School Rural Day
The Trust had a display at the Mangaroa School Rural Day on 18 March 2006. It was great to be able to present the railway project to the immediate community, talk through recent progress and plans for the future.
The Trust’s display at the Mangaroa School Rural Day, Ian Shore in attendance. Photo: Hugh McCracken.
Upper Hutt 40th Anniversary
The Trust had the demonstration Fell centre rail track on display at the Upper Hutt 40th Anniversary held in Main Street on 26 May 2006. Information about the Maymorn site, and the overall objectives of the Trust to build a heritage railway on the old route over the Rimutaka Range was on display. The public showed a lot of interest and the Fell track generated a lot of curiosity.
Rimutaka Incline Railway display on Main Street during Upper Hutt’s 40th anniversary celebrations on 26 May 2006. Photo: Hugh McCracken.
3.6.2 Promotions
On the 29th of October the Trust celebrated the official beginning of the Rimutaka Incline Railway project at Maymorn. It was part of a week of celebrations, which included an Exhibition at Expressions, Upper Hutt, and a Cocktail Party to celebrate the launch and raise funds for the Trust. A Coach trip from Maymorn to Summit left shortly after the launch ceremony.
An exhibition of photographs, memorabilia of the Rimutaka Incline route and the Rimutaka Deviation from October 1955 was held from 22 October – 13 November 2005 at Expressions Arts and Entertainment Centre, Upper Hutt.
A Cocktail and Fundraising Evening was held on Friday 28th October 2005 at Expressions Arts and Entertainment Centre Upper Hutt. The evening’s entertainment included a jazz pianist, auctions, raffles and a prize for the best 1950s dress.
Three coaches carrying more than 60 people left Maymorn for Summit shortly after the launch ceremony.
Auction in progress at the cocktail and fundraising evening, Friday 28th October. Photo: Yanelia Yabar.
Lunchtime at Summit. Passengers explored the former Summit railway yards and walked through Summit Tunnel to Siberia.
The Trust was mentioned in the following promotions:
- Plans for heritage station, illustrated article in The Hutt News 5 July 2005
- Heritage station kicks off Incline reinstatement, illustrated article in The Upper Hutt Leader 6 July 2005
- Rimutaka rail project given boost by grant, illustrated article in The Wairarapa News 6 July 2005
- Heritage station kicks off Incline reinstatement, illustrated article in The Wellingtonian 14 July 2005
- Licence to occupy secured for Maymorn railway heritage precinct, illustrated press release on www.scoop.co.nz, 19 July 2006.
- Maymorn rail yard site secured by incline trust, illustrated article in The Upper Hutt Leader 20 July 2005
- Full steam ahead for railyard plan, illustrated article in The Dominion Post 26 July 2005
- Official turning of the first sod ceremony – Maymorn, 50th Anniversary Events, sponsored advertisements in NZ Railfan September 2005 edition.
- Official turning of the first sod promotion on the Upper Hutt City Council web site for the Official turning of the first sod leading up to 29 October 2005
- Railway heritage Article in Polyvibe #111, October 2005, in-house newsletter of The Open Polytechnic of New Zealand.
- Rimutaka milestone illustrated article in Steamline #111, Spring 2005, newsletter of Steam Incorporated, Paekakariki.
- Train buffs celebrate (leading up to the Official turning of the first sod), article in The Dominion Post, 22 October 2005
- Incline ceremonies mark closing, new plan articles in “The Upper Hutt Leader” 19 October 2005, and Incline Photos, 12 October 2005, leading up to the Official turning of the first sod and exhibition at Expressions, Upper Hutt
- Line of vision illustrated article in The Dominion Post, 31 October 2005
- Train buffs celebrate article in RedNova, 31 October 2005
- Incline launch ‘turns history on its head’, illustrated article in The Upper Hutt Leader, 2 November 2005
- Re-opening the Rimutaka Incline, illustrated article in The Wellingtonian, 10 November 2005
- Rimutaka Incline Railway Heritage Trust — short article in NZ Railfan December 2005 edition, along with discussion in regular FRONZ commentary piece.
- Historic railway to be rebuilt, illustrated article in The Coupler, March 2006 edition.
- short article in Stack Talk, Online Newsletter of the Mainline Steam Trust.
Trust web site shortly after the launch at Maymorn.
3.6.3 Knowledge and education
Interpretative displays, guest speaking appearances, the Trust’s newsletter and web site were used to promote knowledge and education of the Rimutaka Incline Railway.
3.7 Research, discussion, education and interchange of information relating to the Rimutaka Incline Railway
3.7.1 Web site
The web site at www.rimutaka-incline-railway.org.nz is the Trust’s primary mechanism for the dissemination of information, and research outputs. This was of benefit to both membership and the general public.
Search engine relevance
Search engine relevance (as returned by www.google.co.nz on 22 September 2006):
- #1 result for “Rimutaka”
- #1 result for “heritage railway”, restricted to New Zealand domain
- #17 result for “tourist railway”, restricted to New Zealand domain
3.7.2 Guest speaking
In addition to promotional displays, the Trust was invited to provide a guest speaker for a number of club and society meetings. These provide opportunities to inform the wider community about the Rimutaka Incline Railway, its history, and the Trust’s objective to reinstate it as a heritage railway.
Guest speaking appearances included:
- 5 August 2005, over 60’s group, Silverstream
- 2 September 2005, Brown Owl 60’s up group.
- 8 September 2005, Trentham Combined Probus
- 4 November 2005, Woburn Combined Probus Club
- 7 December 2005, Rotary Heretaunga.
- 3 June 2006, FRONZ conference, Nelson. Trust Chairperson Hugh McCracken presented a session on “E-newsletters and websites — efficiencies from multi-purposing content”. This covered the ways in which the Trust is publishing information for members, stakeholders and the general public, through its newsletter and on its website. The session was well received, and numerous questions were fielded from those attending.
4. Trust Board
A Board of Trustees governs the Rimutaka Incline Railway Heritage Trust, meeting for both Board and Committee meetings to further the aims and objectives of the Trust.
4.1 Board composition
At 30 June 2006 the Trust Board comprised the following Trustees (positions noted where applicable):
| Trustee | Position |
|---|---|
| Hugh McCracken | Chairperson |
| Steve Porter | Secretary |
| Cr Barry Timms | Treasurer |
| Glenn Fitzgerald | Trustee |
| Cr Howard Phillips | Trustee |
| Clark Simmonds | Trustee |
| Colin Craddock | Trustee |
4.2 Officers — honorary, non-voting
The Trust is extremely grateful for the work of Jean Fitzgerald throughout the year, assisting the Trust in the capacity of Minutes and Membership Secretary.
4.3 Trust meetings
General committee meetings were held every fortnight from 12 July to 30 November 2005, altering to a four-weekly schedule from January 2006.
Up to the end of the 2005 calendar year, the Trust was meeting fortnightly, working to a fairly predictable agenda, with additional items added, and others omitted, depending on relative priorities at the time. While this worked for many items, some ‘big ticket items’ identified in the Annual Plan were not receiving the attention they deserved.
As a consequence the Trust now meets every four weeks, while the following subcommittees meet during the intervening period:
- Land subcommittee: considering lease, purchase, access, stakeholder considerations;
- Maymorn site subcommittee: planning and coordinating Maymorn site development and maintenance work;
- Fundraising subcommittee: raising funds for projects identified in the Annual Plan, and as otherwise directed by the Trust;
- Safety system subcommittee: developing systems and documentation in order to secure a rail service licence.
The subcommittees report to the Trust, recommend actions, and undertake tasks as delegated. So far so good — we seem to be covering more ground, and the main Trust meeting seems to be working more efficiently and effectively.
5. Accounts
Accounts for the financial year are attached to this report.
6. Membership
Membership of the Trust has been available since the 17th of December 2003. At the end of the financial year membership stood at seventy, including one body corporate.
6.1 Newsletters
Newsletters were distributed to members by both electronic and paper delivery methods, detailing Trust proposals, progress on key objectives, reporting on events and achievements, and advising of future member meetings, walks and future event attendence. Four newsletters were published:
6.2 Membership events
A number of memorable outings were arranged for members during the year including:
- 9th October — Native tree planting at Summit
- A good turnout was had for a second native tree-planting day at Summit on 9 October 2005. Members of the Royal New Zealand Forest and Bird Society joined forces with the Trust to add a good number of seedlings to those planted at Summit in 2004.
- 2nd January 2006 2pm — Maymorn Barbeque
- To see in the New Year the Trust held an informal BYO-BBQ for members, partners and family at the residence of Glenn and Jean Fitzgerald, in Maymorn Road, Maymorn, Upper Hutt.
- 7 May 2006 — Destination: Cross Creek
- Mimicking the proposed third stage of the railway, Trust members followed the route of the railway formation from Featherston to Cross Creek (car park) by car, stopping at points of interest on the way.
- 24 June 2006 — Maymorn Barbeque
- To see in the Winter Solstice, the Trust held a mid-winter barbeque at Maymorn station.
6.3 Members’ meetings
A single members’ meeting was held on Wednesday 17th August 2005, consisting of a project planning session for the Maymorn site project, exploring proposals and actions subsequent to the Trust securing a licence to occupy.
Rimutaka Incline Railway Heritage Trust, 2 October 2006.