Passenger numbers are riding high for the Kingston Flyer since its opening day two weeks ago, with more than 1500 people taking the steam excursion from Kingston to Fairlight.
The reopening of the classic steam train service on October 29 brought 1000 visitors to the town in a single day and while that was mind-blowing for new owner David Bryce, he said he had been even more satisfied with its popularity since then.
"It's amazing really. There have been so many people coming to get on the train."
Mr Bryce said so far the passengers had been predominantly New Zealanders, with bus-loads of people coming from Winton and Dunedin.
On Tuesday afternoon 120 people hopped on board and things do not look to be slowing down for Kingston's popular locomotive. Bookings are strong and inquiries have already been made for Christmas functions.
"It's good to see young and old enjoying the excursion."
Mr Bryce said the only problem they had encountered was with tourists not being able to find the township.
"There's no signage in Frankton. A few people have made bookings and have missed their ride because they haven't been able to find us here."
The owner's new wine label, The Kingston Flyer, has also become a hit in town with his local Kingston Tavern serving it up on a regular basis, he said.
The revamped tavern had been popular with Kingston residents and Mr Bryce reckoned it served "the best coffee you can get".
He planned to offer the new wine along with platters and private carriages for couples or groups up to six in the "bird cage" carriage as well.
Asked whether he thought the excitement would eventually slow, he said things were "only just at the beginning".
"I've been told that things are relatively quiet in Queenstown.
"Things are humming here, so what are we going to be like when it gets busy?"
