The first train to traverse the branch line — from Washdyke to Pleasant Point — pulled up at the station on Monday, October 25, 1875, and for just over a year, Pleasant Point was the terminus of the line as construction continued further inland, eventually bringing rail to just past Fairlie.
While early records of the station’s construction are sparse, there are references to the building ‘‘progressing fairly’’, and its official opening marking an important milestone in South Canterbury’s rail history.
The branch line operated until March 1968, and after it was closed, the Pleasant Point Museum and Railway formed, ultimately being able to preserve the original station, a 1930s booking office, and about 2.5km of track.
Birthday celebrations will be held on Sunday and will include day running, with the railway’s 1922 steam locomotive, the 85-tonne Ab699 operating from 10am to the last train at 4pm.
There will also be a special night running, from 7pm to 9pm.
During the day there will be live music, a bouncy castle, face painting, a coffee truck, and local scouts will be running a barbecue.
Members of the South Canterbury Drama League will dress in period clothing, and Timaru mayor Nigel Bowen and Rangitata MP James Meager have both been invited to attend the celebrations.
Entry fees for the daytime operations are adult (16 years and above) $16, children $8, or a family pass $45 for two adults and two-plus children.
Children aged under 3 can enter free.
For the special evening operation, from 7pm to 9pm, entry is $5.
