The NZR Steam Locomotive

Discover the captivating history of The NZR Steam Locomotive, a definitive hardback book that chronicles the journey of New Zealand's iconic steam engines. Authored by Sean Millar and published by the esteemed New Zealand Railway & Locomotive Society, this exquisite volume spans 336 pages filled with stunning black and white photographs, making it a must-have for railway enthusiasts and historians alike. Delve into the rich tapestry of steam locomotives that served New Zealand's national railway system from 1863 to 1971. With over a thousand locomotives detailed, this book covers everything from the smallest five-ton machines to the impressive 148-ton steel giants. Each section begins with class specifications and historical context, covering the construction, operational roles, modifications, decline, and any preserved examples of each class. Realize the nuances of the NZR numbering system, average mileages, and operational costs as you explore a beautifully illustrated collection. Since its reprint due to popular demand, this book has become essential for those truly eager to grasp the evolution and significance of New Zealand's locomotive heritage. Whether you are a seasoned railway buff or a curious newcomer, The NZR Steam Locomotive offers a comprehensive and visually rich exploration of these steel kings of the tracks, making it an invaluable addition to any collection.

Author: Sean Millar Publisher: New Zealand Railway & Locomotive Society
Bind: hardback

Pages: 336
Publication Date: 01-09-2011

Reprinted due to popular demand! Between 1863 and 1971 the steam locomotive was the best known part of railways, and these steel kings of the steel road touched everyone’s lives. Stories abound regarding the steam locomotive and what made them special. This is a history of the steam locomotives owned by New Zealand’s national railway system. Numbering more than a thousand, they were enormously varied - ranging from little over five tons to almost 148 tons in weight, and from the occasional failure to trend-setting designs of international significance. This stunning book combines the best available research with the largest collection of photographs on the subject ever assembled. The book is not the full story of each class; that would be an impossible task given the limits of a single volume. Each locomotive is described by class beginning at A and ending at Y with brief specifications, builders and years built and operated begin each section. The text then describes the circumstances that led to the acquisition or building of the class, the type of work they performed, significant modifications made, the decline and withdrawal of each class, and the existence of any preserved examples. Along the way we are informed about the basic structure of the NZR numbering system and the variations made over the years. Interesting mention is made of average annual mileages run by the various classes, and the running cost per mile travelled. Locomotives that did not receive a classification by NZR and steam railcars are also covered. The illustrations form a vital part of this volume. They have been sourced from a variety of collections, and they support the text fully. Photographs show what the author has written about, guiding the reader in his learning. Where a member or members of a class have been preserved or restored for running on private or main lines there’s invariably an illustration, appropriately placed last in the section. This lavishly illustrated and very informative book will soon become an essential reference work for all interested in the railways of New Zealand. 336 pages of black and white photographs case bound with dust jacket