Mr Ian Welch, of Porirua, MNZM for services to rail heritage
Mr Ian Welch became involved with collecting locomotives in 1970 with the decommissioning of steam. He formed a syndicate with other enthusiasts to complete the purchase of three locomotives from New Zealand Rail and continued to acquire further steam, diesel and electric locomotives. He helped found Mainline Steam (MLS), which has operated depots in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
His advocacy and personal financial support enabled steam locomotives to access the New Zealand rail network again in 1985, and he has supported MLS to maintain the steam locomotives.
Mr Welch is a Trustee of Mainline Steam Heritage Trust and the Ian Welch Locomotive Trust, overseeing the collection.