NZR S class
The NZR S class was a class of seven 0-6-4T single Fairlie steam locomotives operated by New Zealand's Railways Department between 1882 and 1927.
History
During the 1870s, the railway network in New Zealand was a fragmented system of light railway lines built in rough country where short, steep grades and tight curves were common. The Fairlie type of steam locomotive was well-suited to working in such conditions. Earlier double-ended engines suffered from frame breakages while operating in the Wanganui region, leading to the requirement for conventional engines with Fairlie's maneuverability. The Avonside Engine Company of Bristol, England was able to solve the problem by providing both the R class|R] and S classes of Single Fairlies, 18 of the former in 1878-79 and 7 of the latter in 1880-81.The S class locomotives were manufactured with Avonside's works numbers 1279-1285. They were considerably larger than the R class, weighing six tons more and carrying two tons more water.
The locomotives were introduced into service between 1882 and 1887 and soon gained a reputation for being good steamers. Originally assigned within the Whanganui district as well as the Wellington-Summit section of the Remutaka Ranges, they were also utilized in the Taranaki and Wairarapa districts. Their smooth ride and roomy cab made them popular with engine crews over their older Double Fairlie counterparts.