Home- Maori Origins - European Settlement - Railway Town - Modern Town - Things to do
Railway Town
The railway south of Taumarunui caused considerable problems due to the terrain. Just 28 kilometres south of Taumarunui is the famous Raurimu Spiral, a most amazing feat of railway engineering. Southbound trains from Taumarunui climb 636 metres in only 52 kilometres to National Park. An abrupt rise into National Park is done by extending the railway track through a complete circle; three horseshoe curves; and two tunnels at the Raurimu Spiral. The distance between Raurimu and National Park is artificially increased from 5 kilometres in a direct line to 11 track kilometres.
Most of the construction work, which was completed in 1908, was carried out by pick and shovel. Oxen, horses and small steam locomotives assisted with the bulk movement of materials. It was only in the last two years of construction that one of New Zealand's first steam shovels was brought in to help dig the cuttings.
Steam trains that once travelled the Main Trunk Line have since been replaced by diesel and then by electric trains, however in January of each year the Taumarunui Railway Festival is held for a week when nostalgic steam train excursions are held for all railway enthusiasts.