“The Stratford Express” returns to Taranaki rails for one day only, offering a fun family adventure.

As part of the AmeriCARna celebrations, Steam Incorporated is offering Taranaki locals a rare chance to board the “Big Red Train” for an afternoon return journey from New Plymouth to Stratford.

Dubbed “The Stratford Express,” this experience is perfect for families or groups wanting to escape the AmeriCARnival crowds in the CBD for a few hours and see the region from a completely different perspective.

Departing from the New Plymouth Wind Wand at 2:30pm, the train leaves the Tasman Sea behind, winding through cuttings and road crossings in the suburbs of East End and Fitzroy. It curves inland to Lepperton, meeting the Waitara branch line, before powering south through Inglewood and following State Highway 3.

Passengers will travel in beautifully restored heritage carriages, hauled by 1950s era Da Class diesel-electric locomotives. These machines were once the workhorses of New Zealand’s rail network.

The train arrives in Stratford (once a busy railway junction for the Stratford–Okahakura line) offering a 40-minute stopover. This is the perfect window to:

• Stretch your legs and explore the immediate area.

• Get up close to the massive locomotives for photos.

• Chat with the Steam Inc crew about the history of the fleet.

The train then departs for the return journey, having you back at the Wind Wand in New Plymouth by approximately 5:30pm, just in time for dinner.

While the morning Lepperton Shuttles (1-hour round trips) are fantastic for young children, The Stratford Express offers a more substantial rail adventure. It’s a rare opportunity to experience New Plymouth to Stratford by rail, making it a nostalgic trip down memory lane for older generations and a brand new adventure for younger ones,.

• Date: Saturday 28 February 2026

• Departs: 2:30pm (Wind Wand, New Plymouth)

• Returns: Approx. 5:30 pm

• Pricing: Adults $49 | Family Pass (2 Adults, 2 Children) $169 | Infants Free.

Please note that boarding at the Wind Wand and Stratford is from ground level via steps. Due to the heritage nature of the carriages, this trip may not be suitable for passengers with limited mobility.

How to Book

Seats are reserved and allocated. To secure your spot on this journey, book online at www.steaminc.org.nz or call the friendly Steam Inc. team directly on 0800 783 264.