In the new trains are incorporated the very latest practice in railway carriage construction. page 11 Many of the old features of New Zealand carriages have completely disappeared. The windows are of plate glass and are of the balance type, opening from the top to the bottom, like those in a motor car, and they are frameless. Vestibules have been fitted to all cars, thus securing, by an enclosed space, a more complete connection between the carriages, and eliminating the familiar open platform at the ends of the cars.

Seating Accommodation.

Each first-class car has been fitted with a coupé to accommodate six passengers. Special attention has been given to the seating, which will be considerably more comfortable than the existing type. Being reversible, these seats have three positions, namely, day, semi-lounge, and total recline. They have all been so arranged in the car as to give, from the seat, a clear view through the related window. All the cars have been fitted with atmospheric steam heaters, and generous facilities for electric light and fans. The whole of the water—160 gallons—is carried below the underframe, and is raised by air pressure.

Sheathed with Enamel Plates.

Each car is sheathed with enamel plates, so that no painting is required, and surfaces can be easily cleaned by a sponge and hose. The colour of both trains is Midland Lake red. For the first time in New Zealand automatic couplers will be used.

At the end of each train is a specially constructed and generously equipped observation car. This has windows 3ft. 6in. in width, and a rounded glass end. It is furnished with lounge chairs.

Many improvements are also being embodied in the second-class cars.

(Rly. Publicity photo.)