Kingston Flyer

The plight of the Kingston Flyer train has sent ripples as far away as the UK, where railway enthusiasts have expressed their concern and willingness to support the train.

A legal battle has erupted over who owns assets associated with the Kingston Flyer historic steam train.

The Southern F Locomotive Trust, of Invercargill, is not tendering to buy the historic Kingston Flyer steam train business, saying there are too many "grey areas" surrounding the assets for sale.

Any new owner of the Kingston Flyer could find themselves unable to operate it as such, as the name is subject to a trademark agreement.

An Invercargill-based charitable trust wants to buy the Kingston Flyer.