The DBR class was rebuilt from EMD G8 type DB class which was a lighter V8 version of the DA (EMD G12) for branch lines that couldn't take higher axle load. All were withdrawn by 2017 and were bought by heritage operators. The train here is about to arrive at Auckland Port from the inland port at Wiri with 1199 assisting 1226.
Trains on 3' 6" (1.067m) track from Whangarei to Bluff with virtually heritage rebuilt EMD and GE locomotives still the mainstay power. The network was privatized in 1990's and operated by Toll until 2008 when state owned KiwiRail was established.