The Tot Town Railway is a miniature train that has been running at Kowhai Park in Whanganui East since 1963, operated by volunteers from the Whanganui Lions Club. On weekends and public holidays, the train carries children and families on a loop through the park — one of those simple, long-standing local attractions that generations of Whanganui families have grown up with.
Practical Information
| Location | Kowhai Park, Anzac Parade, Whanganui East |
|---|---|
| Operating days | Weekends and public holidays |
| Operating hours | 1:00pm – 3:00pm |
| Operated by | Whanganui Lions Club (since 1963) |
| Entry | Small fare applies (check locally for current pricing) |
| Combined with | Kowhai Park playground, James McGregor Memorial Park, river walks |
About the Tot Town Railway
The Tot Town Railway was established in 1963 by the Whanganui Lions Club and has been running continuously ever since — an impressive 60-plus year run for a community-operated attraction. The club has around 22 volunteer drivers who alternate shifts on weekends and public holidays to keep the train running.
The miniature train runs on a loop through Kowhai Park, giving riders a short circuit past the playground and riverside grounds. It’s a brief but genuine experience that young children take very seriously — particularly those who are enthusiastic about trains. The Lions Club’s decades of stewardship have made it a beloved constant of Whanganui family visits.
The train runs at 1pm on weekends and public holidays. A small fare applies; check locally when you arrive for current pricing. The station and boarding area are signposted within Kowhai Park.
What Visitors Say
“My kids absolutely loved the Tot Town train — so simple but they wanted to go again immediately. The volunteers running it were lovely and really made the kids feel special.” — Kids on Board visitor
“Been bringing my kids here for years — the train is a real highlight. It’s been running since 1963 which is extraordinary. A Whanganui institution.” — Google review
Where to Learn More
Whanganui Chronicle — Tot Town Train Bringing Joy for Generations tells the history of the railway and its Lions Club operators.
Discover Whanganui — Kowhai Park covers the full Kowhai Park precinct including the railway.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Tot Town Railway operate?
The train runs on weekends and public holidays from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. It does not operate on weekdays during school term time.
How much does the Tot Town Railway cost?
A small fare applies. Check at the station when you arrive, as pricing is set by the Whanganui Lions Club and may change.
How long has the Tot Town Railway been running?
The Tot Town Railway has operated since 1963 — over 60 years — run continuously by the Whanganui Lions Club.
Who operates the Tot Town Railway?
It is operated entirely by volunteers from the Whanganui Lions Club. Around 22 drivers from the club take turns running the train on operating days.
Where do I find the Tot Town Railway?
The railway is within Kowhai Park on Anzac Parade, Whanganui East. The station and boarding area are signposted from the main park entrance.
Is the Tot Town Railway suitable for toddlers?
Yes — young children are the core audience. The ride is short, safe and at a gentle pace, making it ideal for toddlers and preschoolers.
The Tot Town Railway is part of the broader Kowhai Park experience — combine with the themed playground and a walk to James McGregor Memorial Park for a full family afternoon. See Playgrounds in Whanganui for more family spots across the district.