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The New Zealand Railways Magazine, Volume 3, Issue 5 (September 1, 1928)

All Sports Special — A Full Train

page 45

All Sports Special
A Full Train

The long-anticipated railway excursion from Paeroa to Tauranga eventuated on Saturday, 17th July, says the Thames “Star.” Unfortunately, an easterly gale somewhat marred the outing. The excursion, which was inaugurated by the Paeroa Rugby Union, was well patronised by the local public, and the long train, comprising thirteen carriages and two engines, carried 530 persons, only three less than the number who participated in the Thames excursion to Tauranga on the previous Saturday. No doubt the unpropitious weather prevented many more local people from making the trip on Saturday.

The train left Paeroa shortly after 8.30 a.m., and heavy rain commenced to fall, such conditions prevailing throughout the journey to the East Coast. A great many of the excursionists were making their first visit to Tauranga, and the keenest interest was taken in the scenery en route. Unfortunately the heavy rain completely obscured the landscape at times, and much of the pleasure of the trip was lost. The train reached Tauranga on schedule time, and a few minutes later was emptied of its living freight at the Strand station, and soon the streets of Tauranga were thronged with eager visitors seeking shelter from the torrential shower of rain which fell just as the detraining took place.

Passengers by the Thames-Tauranga Special chatting on Paeroa Railway Station.

Passengers by the Thames-Tauranga Special chatting on Paeroa Railway Station.

Apart from the general public, four football teams, five basketball teams, a ladies’ hockey team, and a ladies’ and men's golf team made the trip. The teams were met on arrival by Mr. H. B. Warner, president of the Tauranga Football Union, and representatives of the other sports bodies, and were directed to hotels or refreshment rooms.

On behalf of the visiting teams Mr. W. P. Pennell acknowledged the welcome and assured the local union that Paeroa was looking forward to the return visit of the Tauranga players.

Visitors who were not participating in the various games spent an interesting afternoon sight-seeing between the showers of rain. The football, basketball, and hockey matches were played at the Domain, and the golfers journeyed out to the links at Gate Pa.

Paeroa did not have a day out so far as victories were concerned, the football, hockey, and golf teams being defeated by Tauranga, and only two basketball teams obtained wins.

Credit is due to the Railway Department and the Paeroa Rugby Union for the complete arrangements made for the excursion. Leaving Tauranga at 6 p.m., the return trip was made without incident, and it was a good-natured and happy, if somewhat tired, crowd that reached Paeroa shortly after nine o'clock.