Halfway though last year the Trust approached Steam Incorporated (SI), Paekakariki with the aim of finding a permanent home for No.9, we felt it was important that since this locomotive was operated by the Wellington & Manawatu Railway Company that it should eventually return to is original stomping ground.

SI was very receptive to our proposal and in August a formal arrangement was made that allows the locomotive to stored onsite at Paekakariki and once restoration is complete, operated  and maintained by SI. This is an exciting development and one which secures the future of this locomotive, we are very thankful to the committee at  SI for making this possible.

The trust will still be responsible for restoring the locomotive and all the associated costs. We plan to move No.9’s frames and all other bits and pieces to SI when finances permit.