Steam train rides, events, displays, food and music. There is something for eveyone over Easter Weekend in Waihi as we celebrate 100 Years of Rail in 2006

Special Events
Weekend Highlights
Weekend Programme

Special Events

Stream Train Rides
Enjoy a nostalgic journey from the gold town of Waihi to Waikino, gateway to the awesome Karangahake Gorge. Plan a family or group adventure by taking the train to Waikino where you can enjoy great refreshments at the Waikino Station café before heading into the Gorge to explore the gold heritage assets on offer. The train timetable for the weekend allows you the flexibility to catch an early train and return later in the day when your exploring is done.

Friday 14th April - Waihi locals' day!
This is a chance for the locals of Waihi to kick off the centennial celebrations in style and ride the steam train. Today only all fares on the train rides will be halfprice so bring the family and get warmed up for the rest of the weekend's fun.

Photo Express Train
If you're a train buff with a passion for photos, this will be the train for you. The train will depart Waihi with limited passenger numbers with a view to providing plenty of time and opportunity for a great range of photos. You will have many chances to take fantastic snaps of Y542 as she puffs her way down the line and back again.
Sunday 16th, 2pm. Ticket price: $ 20 pp. Available from Goldfields Railway, Waikino Station Cafe. Bookings are essential. Waihi Railway Station.





Weekend Highlights

Mix 'n' Mingle Evening Train
Get the weekend festivities started by booking your place on the Mix n' Mingle train on Friday evening. The train departs Waihi Station at 6pm and will travel to Waikino Station Cafe where nibbles will be served and you can mix 'n 'mingle.Your return journey will depart Waikino Station at 8.30pm.
Friday 14th at 6pm to 9pm. Ticket price: $20 pp (includes nibbles and train ride) Available from Goldfields Railway, Waikino Station Cafe. Bookings are essential.

Windows Walkway and Eastern Portal Rail Bridge Opening
As part of the weekend celebrations the Department of Conservation will officially open the new developments recently completed at the Windows Walkway and the historic Eastern Portal Rail Bridge. It is anticipated that the Prime Minister will be on hand to cut the ribbon on these fantastic visitor assets.
Saturday 15th at 10am - Karangahake Reserve.

Centennial Re-enactment Ceremony and Garden Party
To mark the milestone of 100 years of rail in Waihi an official ceremony will be held at Waihi Station on Saturday afternoon. As was the case with the original opening in 1905 we have the honour of hosting the Prime Minister who will conduct a brief ceremony unveiling a commemorative plaque to mark this occasion. Other dignitaries of our district will also be in attendance. Everyone is welcome and why not get in the spirit of the celebrations by dressing in period costume!
Saturday 16th at 2pm - Waihi Railway Station.

Centennial Dinner and Dance Celebrations
The celebrations continue with a fun night of dining and dancing planned for Saturday evening. The flavour of the evening will be set with a themed dinner menu and guests are asked to come in costume or dress of the era of their choice. The Up Front band will get those dancing shoes going and Waihi Drama Society have a few tricks up their sleeves to keep you amused. Numbers are strictly limited so get your tickets now. Why not get a table of 10 together and get yourselves a discount!
Saturday 15th at 6.30pm. Ticket price: $ 55 pp (includes wine with meal) Available from
Goldfields Railway, Waikino Station Cafe. Bookings are essential. Waihi Memorial Hall

Centennial Picnic and Concert in the Park
Keeping with the theme of 100 years ago a centennial picnic and concert in the park will be held at Morgan Park on the Sunday afternoon of Easter weekend. This is a great way to bring the community together in a relaxed and fun environment as part of the weekend celebrations. The event has a family focus and people are encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy some time with family members and other people in the community. There will be festival type stalls adding to the atmosphere on the day and will include: food stalls, children's fun activities and craft interest for the adults. A fantastic line up of entertainers has been booked and includes Larry Morris, Suzanne Lynch, and Tom Sharplin with backing band. A local act will kick off the show.
Sunday 16th at 2pm to 6pm. Entry Fee: $ 5 Adults (over 15yrs), Children gold coin. Morgan Park, Waihi.

Weekend Programme