In October 1986, work started on a further track extension.
Stage 3 track extension drawing 1986
Stage 3 track extension long viaduct -1987 (Photo by the Late Stan Wolfe)
Jim Greasley organised a group who met on Saturdays and over several months constructed the long viaduct outside the existing tracks. The viaduct led into an embankment to the small bridge over the end of the boat pond, built using deep concrete piles with the ground being built up to the level of the track pads. Finally, after building a short tunnel just before the girder bridge, the remaining track was laid and spliced into the old track. This considerably lengthened the track circuit to 652 metres long. The extension was officially opened by Harry Bean, the Mayor of Tamaki City Council*, on the 1st November 1987 on a fine sunny afternoon and the official ceremony was followed by a barbeque.
* Note that MWBC and Otahuhu Borough Council merged in October 1986 to form Tamaki Borough Council, proclaimed Tamaki City Council from January 1987.
Stage 3 track extension embankment construction in 1987