Mainline Steam, Mercer

Following the closure of Mainline Steams Parnell depot, their massive South African locos had to go to a new home. They now rest on temporary rail at Mainlines new depot site at Mercer, 60 kilometres south of Auckland's CBD. It will be some time before they will be under a permanent cover so several 'painting bees' were organised, to give them a bit of protection from the elements. A couple of DL class hauled freights passed by as well to add to the work days entertainment.