2025 and beyond
The remote section of our line continues to present as many challenges as it did over 125 years ago. Since commencing upgrades in June 2023, we have problem-solved at a pace that would surely be familiar with our founders!
This week we are excited to launch journeys through to Rinadeena, the second remote station along the line out of Queenstown. The upgraded journeys include 3kms of the rack section, and the steepest section of the line. To reopen this section has been a huge undertaking and our infrastructure team deserves congratulations!
Our immediate focus has turned to providing safe, memorable journeys for the upcoming visitor season. Our team will be busy ensuring locos are in tip top condition, the right consist is set up each morning, and the rail corridor remains safe as we operate up to 20 departures a week. We will not be undertaking major infrastructure upgrades throughout this time.
Behind the scenes, planning has kicked off for Off Season 2025, which is when preparatory work will commence on phase four. This will consist of the section of line between Lower Landing and Dubbil Barril.
Our line is an important heritage icon. As with any heritage infrastructure, it throws us curve balls on an almost daily basis. Some will wish us to set an arbitrary launch date for phase four, with no regard for the complexities of the work ahead. We believe that this is disrespectful to our passengers and to our local community who depend on us.
Our timetable is a promise of minimum viability. It ensures our passengers can plan ahead, while safeguarding space for growth. When we have clarity, we will update our timetable and our community with a launch date for phase four. In the meantime, we are looking ahead to welcoming passengers onboard, and sharing our heritage in the weeks, months and years ahead.
Why not come and join us?
