Winners of the 2026 FRONZ Awards
Congratulations to our winners!
The annual FRONZ Awards highlight the excellence within the Heritage movement. We could not have recognised these efforts without the generous support of our sponsors:
- Pounamu Tourism Group
- The MOTAT Society
- Rail Heritage Trust of New Zealand
- NZ Safety Blackwoods
- KiwiRail
- New Zealand Transport Agency
- Glenbrook Vintage Railway
- and all of the volunteers and staff around New Zealand who do the impossible!
The Pounamu Tourism Group Carriage/Guards Van Restoration Award
Awarded to Mainline Steam for the restoration of AO 100
Built in 1937 as an A-class 56-footer, AO 100 was purchased by Ian Welch in 2016. A large restoration effort began – bogies were removed and overhauled along with the drawgear and brake rigging, while the interior was refreshed before a comprehensive recommissioning of the carriage was completed. Endorsed by the Heritage Technical Committee in February 2026, AO 100 is a stunning example of the skill our members have in restoration.
The MOTAT Society Steam Locomotive Restoration Award
Awarded to Lumsden Heritage Trust for the static restoration of D6
While D6 might be a static display, the locomotive has been restored with ingenuity and care, with a focus on saving as many original parts as possible. The restoration and preservation of D6 has been a fantastic project for the Lumsden Heritage Trust and a brilliant addition their displays, completing the Heritage Train project. Accepted by Bruce Shalders MNZM.
The Rail Heritage Trust Restoration Award
Awarded to the Dunedin Tunnels Trail Trust and Dunedin City Council
In recognition of the successful completion of the Chain Hills Tunnel and cycle trail project, and to the local community who long advocated for and supported this outcome.
The MOTAT Society Tramway Restoration Award
Awarded to Western Springs Tramway for the restoration of Wanganui Tram Trailer No. 21
Tram Trailer No.21 is one of six trailers built for the Wanganui Corporation Tramways, entering service between 1913 and 1922. No.21 was scrapped and repurposed as a garden shed in the Turakina Valley before being rescued in 1967 and entrusted to MOTAT. Restoration began in earnest in 2009, and thanks to the dedication of MOTAT volunteers and generous donations. The work is superb and is another shining example of the talents of the heritage movement.
The KiwiRail Infrastructure Improvement Award
Awarded to Glenbrook Vintage Railway and Gisborne City Vintage Railway
Glenbrook Vintage Railway for their North Yard retaining wall & siding, and Gisborne City Vintage Railway for their new rail passenger loading platform.
The NZ Safety Blackwoods Motive Power Award
Awarded to Steam Incorporated for the restoration of DC 4375
After concluding its working life in Auckland and spending several years in storage, Steam Incorporated staff and volunteers worked tirelessly on this restoration, beginning at Paekākāriki in April 2021. After four years of work, the locomotive re-entered service, with the work done to an exceptional standard.
The Glenbrook Vintage railway young achiever Award
Awarded to Pranz Cortez of MOTAT
For his versatility, creativity, willingness to help others and strong work ethic. He is a valued volunteer, has shown his ability to learn quickly and stepped up when needed – including preparing F180 for its visit to the Silver Stream Railway.
The Glenbrook Vintage railway volunteer of the year Award
Awarded to David Rowland of Steam Incorporated
For his long-term service – showing exceptional leadership and dedication which have made a lasting impact across the organisation. Drawing on his background with St John, he has strengthened volunteer training, supported staff development, and reliably stepped into leadership roles when required. Accepted by Tommy Secker.
The Paul Dillicar Memorial Award For innovation
Awarded to Pounamu Travel, Steam Incorporated, and the Canterbury Railway Society
For their cooperative and innovative efforts returning additional passenger rail services to the South Island, sparking wide-spread recognition, including at Ministerial levels. Accepted by Tommy Secker (Steam Inc), Donald Ross (Pounamu) and Nigel Hogg (CRS).
The Paul Heigthon Memorial Award For Excellence
Awarded to Leyton Chan of MOTAT
For his long-term service and leadership at MOTAT This is evident in the recent successful restoration of Wanganui Tram Trailer No.21 after a decades-long restoration.
