Northern Explorer Journey - Auckland to Wellington by Train

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Highlights

  • Travel through rolling green farmland, past quaint country towns and along rocky coasts. The journey through Tongariro National Park, with its three spectacular volcanic mountains- Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu- is a highlight, a place of extremes and surprises, where snow-blanketed fields, ancient lava flows and dense beech forests can be seen side by side. Traverse stunning river gorges and wind through the Raurimu Spiral near National Park, an amazing feat of railway engineering.  While on board enjoy the journey in award winning world class carriages with specially designed seats. Awaken your senses in the open air viewing decks or sit back and enjoy the GPS triggered audio commentary available through headphones at every seat. All trains have a licensed café carriage providing snacks and light meals.

Summary

Travel through rolling green farmland, past quaint country towns and along rocky coasts. The journey through Tongariro National Park, with its three spectacular volcanic mountains- Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu- is a highlight, a place of extremes and surprises, where snow-blanketed fields, ancient lava flows and dense beech forests can be seen side by side. Traverse stunning river gorges and wind through the Raurimu Spiral near National Park, an amazing feat of railway engineering.  While on board enjoy the journey in award winning world class carriages with specially designed seats. Awaken your senses in the open air viewing decks or sit back and enjoy the GPS triggered audio commentary available through headphones at every seat. All trains have a licensed café carriage providing snacks and light meals.

Tour info

Duration
11 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

New Zealand's longest running passenger service, the Northern Explorer is a long distance scenic train service running between Auckland and Wellington. Experience the extremes of New Zealand's scenery, from the fertile farmlands of Waikato to the volcanic peaks of the Central Plateau and the sparkling Kapiti Coast.

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What’s included?

  • One Way Rail Journey

  • GPS triggered audio commentary

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges

  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

  • Food and Drinks (available to purchase)

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

  • Excess luggage charges (where applicable)

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 11h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
Operator Website

Operated by:

Northern Explorer Train

About operator:

The Great Journeys of New Zealand operate a network of long distance passenger trains and inter-island ferries. We take passengers across New Zealand in comfort and style through some of the most scenic areas of the North and South Islands. The Northern Explorer is The Great Journeys of New Zealand's Auckland to Wellington train. This epic journey roams through the heart of the North Island, through an array of changing landscapes of sea coasts, farmlands, river viaducts and the volcanic Central Plateau. The service operates a 6 day timetable. The Auckland to Wellington train departs on Monday, Thursday and Saturday and the Wellington to Auckland train departs on Tuesday, Friday & Sunday.

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