Ab 663 was retired by NZR in 1969 and purchased by Mainline Steam in 1983 who returned it to the mainline in 1997. 663 ran trips to Castlecliff and Kai Iwi as part of a Vintage Weekend. Seen departing Wanganui home-bound, coaches to Feilding and the remainder of the train to Mainline Steam at Plimmerton (Wellington.) Weekend held in Wanganui.
Mainline Steam Heritage Trust operates steam specials throughout New Zealand from depots in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Each year an inter-island Steam Tour attracts fans from around the world. For more visit www.mainlinesteam.co.nz
