Why MOTAT Needs Your Help to Upgrade the Western Springs Tramway
Our heritage trams are integral to MOTAT’s museum experience. As working artefacts, they provide visitors with a unique opportunity to experience this significant part of New Zealand’s transport history. The trams also provide a free public transport link around Western Springs.
Over the past 60 years, MOTAT has lovingly restored and preserved these trams, but the tracks they run on are in some places nearly 100 years old and critical sections near Great North Road, Motions Road, Auckland Zoo and Western Springs College need replacement.
In 2025, together with the support of Auckland Council and other partners, MOTAT is embarking on a major project to upgrade sections of the Western Springs Tramway.
We have already sourced vital components from international partners, including specialised tram turn-out switches for the Passing Loop from Prazska Storjirna in the Czech Republic and sections of Ri-57 tramway rail from Yarra Trams in Melbourne, Victoria.
But MOTAT really needs your help to complete the project. Every donation brings us closer to keeping the trams running and preserving this unique piece of New Zealand’s history.
So please jump on board by adopting a tram. Upgrading the track will ensure the tramway remains operational, preserving this important part of Auckland's transport heritage for future generations.
As a registered charity, MOTAT (CC30945) relies on the generosity of donors like you to fund essential projects. Please support us by adopting a tram today!
