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Along next was the EE-built Ec class, the C standing for their allocation to Christchurch, through another moderately long tunnel that was proving problematic to run steam locomotives through.
In many ways the Ec was an improvement over the Eo, with more powerful motors and higher gearing to allow a top speed of 85 km/h.
In 1970, with the locomotives nearing 50 years of age, and the arrival of diesel power in the South Island, the locomotives were retired and the catenary pulled down.
Today, Ec 7 survives in operating order, again at the future site of the National Railway Museum. It is often seen working with its cousin, Eo 3.
