Northern Explorer Train Journey from Wellington to Auckland

431 Reviews4.37 out of 5 stars Based on 431 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor | Wellington, New Zealand

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5.25 to 10.5 hours (Approx.)
Mobile Ticket

Overview

New Zealand's longest running passenger service, the Northern Explorer is a long distance scenic train service running between Wellington and Auckland.  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.

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

Wellington Station, Bunny Street, Pipitea, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

Open in Google Maps
End point

Auckland Strand, Parnell, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Start Time • 07:55 AM

What To Expect

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 (at own expense)

What's Included

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • GPS triggered audio commentary
  • One Way Rail Journey
  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup not offered
  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks (available to purchase)
  • Excess luggage charges (where applicable)

Additional Info

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if travelling with a wheelchair.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Please arrive at least 20 minutes prior to scheduled departure and check in at the station to receive your boarding pass. Please have your Cool Destinations Voucher ready for inspection.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-59907P2

Reviews

4.37
431 reviews

Average 4.37 out of 5 stars based on 431 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

5 stars
253
4 stars
124
3 stars
28
2 stars
13
1 star
13

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