Palmerston North Electric Power Station Inc.
In time we hope that the power station will be open on a regular basis, however, at present it is only open by arrangement or for organised 'open days.' Our 'open days' are not run on a regular basis either, but are reasonably well publicised - certainly locally (and if we know someone especially wants to come). These occasions usually involve opening the building for an afternoon or perhaps even for much of the day if there is a demand.
As well as various little fund-raising schemes, such as a barbecue, on 'open days' an engine tends to be started for about ten minutes each hour (traditionally on the hour). The sudden very loud engine noise - and the equally large volume of exhaust smoke suddenly emitting from the smoke stack - tends even to encourage passing motorists to abruptly abandon their cars and make a rush for the building.
More often at present, visitors come as organised groups that share some interest in heritage preservation, electricity and its history, or simply because they love of old machinery. Others who are visiting the city also find their way to the building (and a key holder) as individuals. For examples of all these, see our photos of past visits.
Due to the effort involved with organisating these visits, especially for 'engine starts' - and obviously our need for funds, PNEPS Inc. now charges visiting groups the following fees:
Individuals - $5.00 per head entry fee for people aged 16 years and over, or $1.00 for 8-15 year olds. Seven years and under are - obviously - free.
A group visit including an 'engine start' - A minimum of $100.00 (equiv. 20 people), or $5.00 per head - whichever amount is higher.
For further information on visits, on future 'open days', or for contact phone numbers, email us, or perhaps even leave a message and your own email address in our Guest Book (accessed on the Front Page) and we'll get back to you.
The photo above, taken in about 1998, shows the city side of the power station from the reserve behind Terrace End Cemetery. The concrete foundations of the old fuel storage tank building are visible in the garden about halfway along the building. The cream building on the left is the new Keith Street artesian water pumping building. There have been quite a few changes to the scene since then, however, this view is good one for us to reflect on.
Last updated: 1 January 2007
