It’s the end of the line — literally.
After decades of service, one of New Zealand’s most beloved regional train routes is officially being shut down. The announcement has triggered a wave of nostalgia, frustration, and heartbreak across the country.
For many Kiwis, this isn’t just about a train. It’s the clap of end for an era of slow, scenic travel — and for a piece of national heritage.
A journey through memory lane
The route in question, running between Palmerston North and Napier, was once celebrated for its winding paths through hills, farmland and coastal stretches.
For school trips, weekend escapes, and countless family holidays, the train wasn’t just transport — it was part of the adventure.
Locals recall waving from stations, sharing packed lunches on the ride, and spotting sheep out the window as the carriages rumbled gently through the landscape.
“We used to take that train to see my grandparents. It was more than a journey — it was a tradition,” says Aria, 33, who grew up in Masterton.
Why it’s shutting down
According to KiwiRail, the decision comes down to a painful mix of low passenger numbers, rising maintenance costs, and lack of government funding.
“It’s no longer sustainable,” a spokesperson said. “We understand the emotional connection, but the infrastructure is ageing and underused.”
Despite a petition launched earlier this year — with over 40,000 signatures — the final decision has now been confirmed: the last train will run in early 2026.
Locals feel left behind
Communities along the route say they’re being forgotten.
For many small towns, the train wasn’t just symbolic — it was practical. It connected workers, students, elderly residents and tourists to larger hubs.
“Now we’ll rely entirely on buses or cars — if we even have one,” says Hamish, 72, who lives near Waipukurau.
Some also fear that losing the line will damage regional economies already struggling post-COVID.
What happens next?
KiwiRail says parts of the track may still be used for freight or tourism projects, but regular passenger service is officially over.
Meanwhile, heritage rail groups are scrambling to preserve the route, or at least offer occasional “memory rides” on select weekends.
But for most New Zealanders, the verdict is clear: this is goodbye.
One final ride, one last view from the window — and then silence.
There hasn’t been a regular passenger train on this line for many years.
This is sensationalist bs journalism. This route has not carried passengers for years. It is predominantly a freight line.
Agree with above comments. Passengers haven’t been able to travel from Palmerston north to Napier since before my daughter was born! She’s now at university in Wellington and the passenger train stops at Palmerston north so we have to collect her from there and drive back to Hawkes bay.