Middleton Model Railway & Model Shop
📍 Eketāhuna, Manawatu-Wanganui
Middleton Model Railway & Model Shop at 36 Morgans Road, Eketāhuna, is a privately built working model railway open to the public for over 21 years. Working models built across 46 years run the layout. A model shop operates alongside.
Well worth a visit. We've been coming here every year for a few years now as my son loves steam engines. Colin obviously puts a lot of effort into rearranging the layouts every few months, as the amount of details is amazing. There are big trains and there are tiny trains. Awesome for kids as there are many switches they can push to "drive" the trains. There are also a range of models and other supplies for sale at a good price. We always follow our visit to this place with a walk at Pukaha Mt Bruce.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Families with children who love trains describe this as an outstanding find. The owner's hands-on involvement and enthusiasm make the visit feel personal rather than transactional. Reviewers note kids and adults leave equally impressed.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →129 Google reviews
Agnes West-Dzang
2 months ago
“Well worth a visit. We've been coming here every year for a few years now as my son loves steam engines. Colin obviously puts a lot of effort into rearranging the layouts every few months, as the amount of details is amazing. There are big trains and there are tiny trains. Awesome for kids as there are many switches they can push to "drive" the trains. There are also a range of models and other supplies for sale at a good price. We always follow our visit to this place with a walk at Pukaha Mt Bruce.”
Charity
a year ago
“Go check this out! Honestly outstanding effort the owner has put into this! Been open for 21 years to the public but many years more just for fun! $10 adults $5 kids.... you can buy train stuff to, Got it all moving and it brought back some childhood memories!!”
Kava Guy
a year ago
“Absolutely lovely place to visit if you're a hobbyist and love trains. The place is immaculately managed by Collin and has a wealth of knowledge of the sets he has in place. Great models and sets available for purchase as well. Prices are very reasonable.”
Protassium Bros
a year ago
“A lovely treasure of a place, we stopped on the way to Auckland and didn't regret the slight detour. Highly recommended if not for the effort that's gone into a multi-layout giant set + shop.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Middleton Model Railway & Model Shop at 36 Morgans Road, Eketāhuna, is a 46-year personal project in model railway building, open to the public for over 21 years. Working models run across a detailed scenic layout. Owner Colin is typically present to guide visitors and explain the history of individual pieces. A model shop sells related items on site. Reviewers describe the immaculate presentation and Colin's depth of knowledge as standout qualities.
