The replica of the Coast rail network includes buildings and landscapes covering downtown Greymouth through to Otira during the early 1950s.
It was built by Hokitika-born rail enthusiast John Agnew, who lives in Auckland.
Mr Agnew is now 84, and told Shantytown chairman Dave McMillian he had some West Coast history that needed to be preserved and cared for.
"Immediately we went up and had a look and it was all set up and working," Mr McMillian said.
"Chris Stoop and I were just blown away. Words just can’t describe it, totally amazing right to the finest detail.
"We were staggered to be offered this, it is just amazing."
Mr McMillian said with the help of the Blackadder Trust and local furniture removal contractor Victor Smithers, they were able to transport the model in sections.
"We are going to reassemble it all out at Shantytown as it was and will later open it out so people can get in amongst it.
"It is such a good and accurate replica from Greymouth to Otira — a real piece of our history."
— Paul McBride
