Northern Explorer
Rail Journey - from £99
Travel in style through rolling farmland, dramatic gorges and the rugged, volcanic Central Plateau from the North Island’s gateway city to its capital.
Your Rail Journey
Enjoy a journey through the heart of the North Island, travelling between Auckland and Wellington, New Zealand’s commercial and political capitals.
Along the way you’ll pass the ski towns of National Park and Ohakune, popular with winter holidaymakers. There are fantastic views of New Zealand countryside, the volcanic central plateau, Mount Ruapehu, the world famous Raurimu Spiral, and stunning river gorges – all from the comfort of your air conditioned carriage or from the observation carriage and open air viewing decks.
On board facilities: A licensed café carriage onboard the Northern Explorer provides you with a variety of meals, snacks and drinks. There is also an audio commentary system on board relaying the histories, legends and myths of New Zealand as it passes your window.
Auckland to Wellington
Monday, Thursday & Saturday
Departs: 07:45
Arrives: 18:25
Wellington to Auckland
Tuesday, (Wednesday from September), Friday and Sunday
Departs: 07:55
Arrives: 18:50
Rail Journey - from £99
Your Rail Journey
Let the train take the strain for part of your New Zealand holiday. These iconic rail journeys offer reserved seating, panoramic windows, informative commentary and outdoor viewing platforms for great photo opportunities.
Coach Class Seats: Spacious reclining seats with generous leg room
Open Air Viewing Carriage: These carriages have open sides which allow you to get a sense of the great outdoors as well as uninterrupted views making it ideal for amazing photo opportunities.