In 1878, Parliament authorised the construction of the Greytown Branch, and the following year, after the completion of a survey, plans were drawn up and tenders called.

The opening of the line on 14 May 1880 was to have been a grand affair, with a parade led by a brass band, followed by local charitable societies, schools, children and the general public.

Foul weather on the day meant that much of what had been planned was cancelled, and the first train from Wellington brought few visitors.

[1] The station yard is at the southern end of West Street in Greytown, and is noticeable by the large hump in the road as you pass the goods shed.

A road transport company and row of large trees now occupy much of the yard and where the station building used to be.