Meet our fleet of engines
We have three locomotives, all based on historical and current models of NZR / Kiwirail equipment.
Each has its own set of controls and unique behaviour which provides a different operating experience for our drivers.
The Loco Number reflects the year in which it was manufactured.
DA 1969
The DA was first painted in the then-standard NZR diesel paint scheme with a Carnation Red body and a white bodyside stripe and a black underframe. The DA originally had its controls in the cab which meant to operate correctly it was running backwards, 32 years later the controls were moved to the cab leading position.
The DA is the easiest of the Locomotives to drive with just one handle, great for beginners to learn on.
DXC 1975
By 1974 it was clear a second locomotive was needed to ensure the railway could always be run.
Two years earlier, New Zealand Railways had introduced big power, in the form of the DX. These machines were bigger and more powerful than anything seen to date in New Zealand, and they were painted in bright orange and yellow colour scheme.
It was clear if the miniature railway was to get another engine, this is what it had to be!
The committee gave the go-ahead in March 1974, and the DX entered service on April 10th, 1975. This model was also powered by a Vauxhall petrol engine, but transmission this time was by Hydraulics to all 6 axles. The DX was a good performer from the start. It is a solid and heavy machine, and with two more powered axles than the DA, quickly established itself with plenty of towing power.
In the 1980's this loco was repainted in the contemporary “International Orange” colour scheme, with the number 1975 on her long hood sides.
This was followed by another repaint into the then current Toll Rail livery, and finally, received her current change of scheme into the more favourable KiwiRail livery, where she was re-branded as a DXC.
DXR 1997
During the 1990’s the railway expanded considerably with the track being extended to the playground at the far end of the park. It was soon apparent that the operation of the extended circuit was going to require the frequent running of two trains. To ensure a spare engine remained available the committee gave the go-ahead for a third locomotive, to be modelled on the then brand new DXR class.
This engine was a pioneer, as it marked the adoption of diesel power on the railway. A three-cylinder Kubota diesel engine is the power source and transmission is again by hydraulics to 6 axles. Although the change to diesel power caused some teething troubles, this engine has settled down to be a solid performer and is now a favourite with driving crews. The loco was completed in the then-standard Tranz Rail colour scheme of light blue, with grey roof and cab sides, yellow ends and a black underframe. She carries the number 1997, the year she was completed.
DXR 1997 is now resplendent in her new KiwiRail livery.
Dg 2024
Roll on a new century which saw further improvements to our facilities with the opening of a new Maintenance Depot and soon after, our new Victoria Station / Ticket Office.
Bigger facilities meant we had the capacity for the storage of three trains, which were being run regularly. Our members soon realised we required a fourth loco to add to the fleet to ensure three trains were always available.
A whole new concept of design was introduced which allowed easy access to the prime mover and vital internal parts. This meant the loco needed a wide body, and the 1950's Dg Class operated by NZ Railways was perfect for our needs.
In 2024, our new Dg was officially unveiled by the Mayor of Palmerston North, Grant Robertson, and ever since being introduced, has been a favourite for our drivers to operate.
Our Dg's livery is reflective of the standard NZ Railways red, and its serial number reflects the year it became operational - 2024.
As well as using our usual three-cylinder Kubota diesel engine powering hydraulics to all six axles, it has the added advantage of having an electronic monitoring and operating system. Added features are a fully decorated cab with interior lights and gauges.
In 2026, Dg 2024 was modified to receive our in-house designed track lubrication system, which applies a small amount of water to the leading wheels when traversing bends to reduce flange squealing.
