The Incredible Journey
The Incredible Journey is a donor-funded ministry passionate about communicating the Gospel of Christ. Pastor Gary Kent holds a B.A. in Theology, M.A. in Ancient History & Archaeology, and M. in Divinity. He's an archaeologist who has excavated numerous sites throughout Israel and Jordan and is an internationally acclaimed speaker and TV presenter, he has spoken and produced numerous documentaries on subjects including the Bible, Bible prophecy, world events, and natural health. His passion is to share the good news of Jesus’ imminent return. — New programs are released every Friday at 6pm (AEST).
The Incredible Journey
Tangiwai – A Tragic Love Story
On Christmas Eve, 1953, New Zealand’s holiday celebrations were shattered by tragedy. The Wellington to Auckland night express, filled with passengers eager to be home for Christmas, was making its way north when disaster struck. A lahar (volcanic mudflow) had swept away the Tangiwai Rail Bridge, plunging the train into the raging Whangaehu River below. The result was catastrophic — lives were lost, and the nation was left in shock.
It was one of the darkest moments in New Zealand’s history. At the time, it ranked as the eighth-deadliest rail disaster in the world and captured international headlines. With a population of just over two million, nearly everyone in the country knew someone affected. The fact that it occurred on Christmas Eve only deepened the collective sorrow. To this day, it remains far more than a local railway accident — it is a national tragedy.
Join Gary Kent as he explores the story of the Tangiwai disaster, uncovering its profound impact on the people involved and the country as a whole. In the midst of grief and loss, perhaps we too can find comfort and strength as we reflect on how to navigate sorrow and hardship in our own lives.