All aboard! A familiar whistle has been echoing through the air at Mount Maunganui, as the popular Pepi Toot train once again takes to the streets of the town, much to the delight of cruise ship passengers, visitors and locals.

The summer attraction has been eagerly anticipated by those keen to enjoy the nostalgic journey on the beloved train.

“I’m just thrilled to be back, with the locals and the visitors,” says train driver Lesley Smith.

“I’ve had repeat people from the ships. An Australian lady came back for the third time the other day and brought her father.”

During winter a new gearbox has been installed in the train, switching it from manual to automatic, enabling a smoother ride for all.

The train usually operates from October through to Easter.

Following the Covid lockdown, three years passed before cruise ship passengers were able to return to NZ ports when the borders opened in 2022.

Pepi Toot in Pilot Bay. Photo: SunLive.

The train is named ‘Pepi’ which is Maori for ‘baby’ and has a carriage that can take up to 15 adults.

The train ride takes passengers along Pilot Bay around Marine Parade to Grove Ave, and through the middle of the Mount Maunganui downtown shops.

Along the way all aboard get to see one of the oldest pohutukawa trees in NZ, and enjoy views they often can miss in their cars.

Cruise ship passengers also enjoy an informative talk from Lesley about the history of Mount Maunganui.

It’s a fun ride on a summer’s day, leaving from outside the Spongedrop Café in Salisbury Ave.

On cruise ship days, one-hour tours are offered to cruise ship passengers, and on non-cruise ship days there are half-hour rides available from 10am.

The Pepi Toot Beach express is also available for children’s parties, weddings and group bookings.

Any enquiries can be made to Lesley via the Facebook page Mount Maunganui "Pepi Toot" Beach Express.