Ohinemuri Regional History Journal 27, September 1983
Two excursion trains travelled from Thames and Paeroa on 19th and 20th Feb. 1983. These trips were a great success. The train comprising two diesel engines and 18 carriages travelled to Mt. Maunganui via Te Aroha, Morrinsville, Kaimai Tunnel and Tauranga.
The Saturday train carried to near-capacity passengers of 1050 and departed from Thames. Sunday's train had approximately 900 folk aboard and departed from Paeroa. There were families, businesses, schools, clubs and various other organisations represented who took advantage of this unique trip. The Thames Squash Club provided refreshments as well as the Thames Valley Under-19 Rugby team.
On Sunday Bill Wells and his wife entertained with their country and western items; Max Turner, who provided much joy as a clown also Claire Dobbs and Josie Stone with their piano accordians [accordions – E] were top class. There were many highlights, but possibly the Kaimai tunnel, being able to go through this "much talked about" piece of engineering was the major one. Time was spent at Mt. Maunganui at the beaches, wharf, Leisure Island or just meandering.