 The first excursion train on the Nelson Section was run on 23 February 1876 to a steeplechase held at Wakefield, shortly after the first section opened.Special trains to various events thereafter became a popular activity for the locals, especially during summer, and becoming an annual event for organisations such as clubs, social groups, schools and businesses who arranged picnics for their members, staff or students.Popular locations for these excursions included Snowdens Bush, Faulkners Bush, Baigents Bush, Wai-iti Domain and Glenhope.