Ghosts, ghouls and goblins are invited to ride the rails of the miniature railway at Memorial Park at its annual Halloween Night Run.

The Friday, November 1, event is a highlight on the calendar for the Tauranga Model Marine & Engineering Club, with about 20 members getting in the spirit by dressing up for the occasion.

“It’s open to kids of all ages and over the years the event has become a bit of an institution,” said club secretary Warren Karlsson. “It’s very popular.”

In fact, it’s one of just two annual after dark events with the recent Matariki Night Run attracting 1200 passengers in three hours.

“We give out glow sticks and the kids come along dressed up. The tunnels are lit up and the bridges have coloured lights, too. Watch out for spooky surprises along the way.”

Five locomotives that have been built and maintained by the volunteers will be running the almost kilometre-long track. One of them will be a steam engine. Each locomotive takes up to 15 passengers on three loops of the track and there will also be coffee and donuts for sale.

“It’s good to see people enjoying themselves and give the public an insight into what we do,” said Warren. “Events like these showcase our hobby and we get a range of people from those bringing their great grandkids to first time riders who just happened upon us in the park. One thing’s for sure; public interest isn’t waning. We get hundreds at every event.”

The Halloween Night Run is on Friday, November 1, 2024, trains run 5.30pm – 9pm (ticket window closes 8.50pm). $2 per ride, with concession tickets available at 12 rides for $20.

The event is subject to weather, with updates posted on Facebook Memorial Park Railway Tauranga. Wear your best costumes and join in the fun.