Little engine that couldn't

It was the case of the little engine that couldn't when a train got stuck in a Turakina tunnel this week.

Wanganui Fire Station officer Jes Sorensen said a train heading north through a tunnel between Turakina and Whangaehu became stuck on Monday morning when one of the engines "sort of shut down".

The train was heading up a "gentle rise" but was unable to make it through, and the two drivers in the train had to evacuate the tunnel due to fumes. It was about 200 metres from the exit when it got stuck, he said.

Wanganui firefighters helped the drivers get back into the train. Mr Sorensen said breathing apparatus was needed because the tunnel was filled with carbon monoxide.

Once the drivers got back in, they were able to back the train out again downhill.