Kings of the iron road

New Zealand's extensive railway network dominated the country's transport services for nearly fifty years, a period that coincided with the golden age of the steam locomotive. These engines and the trains they hauled were an integral part of New Zealand life. They provided intercity transport for businessmen and politicians, a trip to town for rural housewives, and transport for commuters. Children went to school by local train, families went on holiday, and sports teams travelled by train.