Ormondville Rail Preservation Group Inc.
The Official Opening of the Station - 30 November 1997
The Official Opening of the Station - 30 November 1997
Wairarapa MP, Wyatt Creech, cuts the ‘official’ baling twine, with the ‘official’ old pair of scissors, in the course of the somewhat belated (by 117 years) ‘official’ opening - on 30 November 1997 - of Ormondville Station. (Photo: Ted Nikoliason, Masterton)
Tranz Rail’s Managing Director, Dr. Francis Small, speaks at the official opening of the flag-bedecked Ormondville Railway Station. Standing on the platform with him is Euan McQueen, chairperson of the Rail Heritage Trust, who acted as MC. Seated from left are: Fred Playle (President of ORPG), Hon. Wyatt Creech (MP for Wairarapa) and Bill Bly (Mayor of Tararua District). The platform ordinarily is ORPG’s ‘weed trolley’ and the amplifier previously was a nail box. The greatly appreciated ‘wind shelter’ is the Norsewear Express, also known as the Palmerston North-Wellington route’s Capital Connection. (Photo: Dannevirke Evening News, Neg. 16192/11A)
In 1997, New Zealand Post used the Matamau viaduct - photographed while the Bay Express was crossing - on a $1.50 stamp that was one of a series they produced showing various Tranz Scenic trains. This stamp in turn was used on the souvenir envelopes issued in conjunction with the station’s official opening. Most were signed by signed by Hon Wyatt Creech and Dr Francis Small.
Last Updated: 12/1/2003