Drewery shunting locomotive TR 81 won the National Federation of Rail Societies "2002 Non Steam Locomotive Restoration Award". The award was presented at the federations conference in Gisborne on the 2nd of June and represents the highest peer recognition available for this type of restoration.

Restoration work is proceeding well on K 610 (a box wagon of 1897 vintage). It has had its old roof covering removed, and the cladding on one side and one end has been repaired and painted. The fire damage in one corner has been successfully eliminated and extensive rot in the framing on the other end is repaired. Corroded tie rods have also been replaced where necessary. Over the coming months, work will focus on repairing a broken door post and replacing rotten framing on the far side of the vehicle. These heavy structural repairs were never envisaged during the planning stage of the project, as the cladding covering the framing seemed fairly sound. Fortunately, most of the extra expense is in terms of time, as we have sufficient materials on hand for the extra repairs. The portion of the wagon that has been repainted in the authentic red oxide is a vast improvement on the faded yellow and brown that the wagon carried for the last 20 years, effectively tidying a particularly untidy landmark on our site.

On the subject of eyesores, bogie cattle wagon T175 has also improved considerably in appearance since a long-awaited break in the weather allowed work to recommence on this outdoors project. Around a quarter of the new floor has been installed. Surprisingly, this floor is slightly radiused to aid in the cleaning of this livestock wagon. Replicating this original feature provided the wagon team with an unexpected challenge, but it was performed without any problems. The second door to be restored has been test-fitted and it now awaits painting and final assembly. The next section of body framing has now been cleaned down and repainted. The cladding has been prepainted and is ready to be bolted on. Cladding for the next stage is currently being painted, and the next instalment of timber for the floor is due soon.

Carriage A210 is having some minor restoration work performed on it in. While this is definitely a long term project, some of the younger members have spent a considerable number of hours removing old paint from the interior of the carriage. Over the coming year, much of the missing external cladding will be replaced, as will the damaged or missing window sills. However, vast amounts of time and money will be required to return this vehicle to service, despite the huge amount invested some time ago in the replacement of the underframe and floor.

Ocean Beach's tool hut (K543) has returned to its earlier configuration of being a sleeping hut now that bunks and tables have been installed in accordance with the original plans.

Progress has been good on refurbishing the former Katiki Station. The back wall is now complete and work is focusing on the reinstated portion at the northern end of the building.