A kit production and model making business where fidelity comes first. Wherever possible original works drawings (usually 1½"=1ft) are used for pattern production. Patterns are usually made or drafted in house, and production is contracted out to skilled professionals to ensure that the resulting kits are the best. We don't reinvent the wheel - if great products or patterns are available elsewhere we use them.
We also build special models for serious supporters. Our products reflect our love of fine models. If you share this dedication and have a project close to your heart, please get in touch.
Mild-mannered manager by day, insomniac model craftsman at night; Lawrence Boul! Partner Jill Boul sits in the fireman's seat and makes sure orders get filled and bills get paid. Local Christchurch enthusiasts play a critical role, providing inspiration, camaraderie, feedback and ideas.
No, but the kits are intended for the serious modeller with some experience. They feature extensive instructions together with clear CAD-drawn exploded diagrams to guide you. We aim to make kit construction as simple as possible within the constraints of accuracy. This means that many parts are extremely fine, but they DO fit. Construction is therefore time consuming, but taken patiently not especially difficult. If you are committed to building beautiful models, New Zealand Finescale products will help.
New Zealand Finescale kits are of New Zealand Government Railways 3'6" gauge prototypes. Typically we target the 1920 to 1960 period, but most of the kits and parts are useful for models outside this era. Kits are mainly in S scale (1:64 or, for imperialists, 3/16":1ft) to operate on 16.5mm gauge track, but some are in 9mm:1'. Full kits contain all parts to make extremely detailed models - usually with options.
Quite simply the best material for the job! No one material is suitable for all model railway parts. We use the best method for each component as long as this is cost effective. At present we use primarily lost-wax brass castings and photo-etched brass. These are the same techniques used to manufacture expensive Japanese and Korean 'Brass'. Spun-cast pewter and resin castings are used for projects if this seems sensible.