Featherston station
The first sizable settlement on the line since leaving Upper Hutt, Featherston marks the point where the road over the Rimutaka Range leaves the expansive Wairarapa Plains, starting its ascent via the valley of Abbot's Stream. The Kaitoke to Featherston section of the Wellington and Masterton Railway was opened for traffic in 1878.
Featherston station, Summer 2003. Photo: Hugh McCracken.
Featherston once boasted a locomotive depot, closed in 1891. Substantial station facilities were provided for both passengers and goods, including trademark curve-roofed goods shed. Traffic was sourced from the southern and south-eastern parts of the Wairarapa district, including the township of Martinborough, 10 miles (16km) to the south-east.
View south from Featherston station, Summer 2003. Photo: Hugh McCracken.
References:
Cameron, W.N. 1992. 'Rimutaka Railway', New Zealand Railway and Locomotive Society, Wellington, New Zealand.
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Page updated 30 May 2005 Hugh McCracken.
