No 12 ready for first public demonstration

Published on 17 January 2014

17 January 2014

History will be created this Saturday, as the No 12 Tram takes its first journey along the riverfront tram tracks.

No 12 will be driven through the River Traders and Whanganui Farmers Markets as part of the Whanganui Vintage Weekend festivities at 11am on Saturday, January 18. The tram will run from the Tram Shed on Taupo Quay to the Waimarie dock on Moutoa Quay.

Former Melbourne tram driver Ian Robertson, of Palmerston North, and local man Barry Marsh will be behind the controls. The tram last travelled the city’s streets just over 63 years ago.

Following Saturday’s demonstration run, the Tramways Trust will work over the next few months to get the tram ready to transport members of the public, says Tramways Trust Chair Kritzo Venter.

“We have finished everything required for the construction of the tram and we are now working on the next phase of electrical testing, safety compliance and licencing through the New Zealand Transport Authority. This will be completed in the next couple of months and members of the public will be able to hop on board and enjoy seeing the Whanganui riverfront and surroundings from a different perspective.

“Locals and visitors will then be able to ride a tram through the Saturday morning market, the only place in New Zealand where they can experience this. In the meantime, we hope lots of residents and visitors will be at the riverfront this Saturday to mark this next historic step in the return of No 12 to the city.”

Tram services began in Wanganui in 1912 but were decommissioned in late 1940s, as road transport started to become more economical.

Mayor Annette Main says the volunteers and sponsors who have been involved in getting No 12 running are owed “a huge debt of gratitude”.

“We have waited a long time for this day and I acknowledge that it is happening because of the strong community spirit, loyalty and willingness to get involved, which is the trademark of our district.”

Mr Venter says the restoration has been an exciting journey for everyone involved.

“We have worked well together as a team, bringing different skill sets to the process.”

The Tramways Wanganui Trust would like to thank Tenix, Strong Electrical Ltd and Adrian Barnes Electricians for the time donated to line installation.