The Northern Explorer
Northern Explorer - Hapuawhenua Viaduct
Duration
1 day - 10 hours
Price (from)
Adults: (15+) $260 PP
Children: (2-14) $200 PP
Operational days
Auckland to Wellington: Mon, Thu, Sat
Wellington to Auckland: Fri, Sun, Wed
Book a trip
Travel 648km and through five unique geographical regions of New Zealand’s North Island
Unwind on a scenic rail adventure aboard the Northern Explorer. Witness the diverse beauty of the North Island, journeying through five unique geographical regions. Your journey begins in bustling Auckland, crowned by the iconic Sky Tower, and concludes in Wellington, New Zealand's harbor capital, renowned for its arts and culture.
Crossing the Hapuawhenua Viaduct
Passing through Tongariro National Park
The Kapiti Coast
The Northern Explorer adventure
Prepare to be captivated by ever-changing landscapes as you journey aboard the Northern Explorer. Large panoramic windows and an open-air viewing deck offer unrivaled vistas throughout your trip. Witness the transformation of the North Island, from verdant farmlands and rugged bush to the world-renowned Raurimu Spiral ascent. This engineering marvel takes you past the volcanic giants of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe, and Mt Ruapehu, home to the North Island's skifields. The descent reveals breathtaking river gorges before reaching the rolling farmlands and dramatic coastlines of the lower North Island.
Comfort reigns supreme on the Northern Explorer. Advanced air suspension ensures a smooth and quiet ride, while strategically placed, non-reflective windows maximise your view of the spectacular scenery. Stay informed with GPS-triggered, multi-lingual commentary delivered directly to your headphones. Information displays, overhead HD videos, and a comfortable climate-controlled environment complete your unforgettable experience.
Comfort reigns supreme on the Northern Explorer. Advanced air suspension ensures a smooth and quiet ride, while strategically placed, non-reflective windows maximise your view of the spectacular scenery. Stay informed with GPS-triggered, multi-lingual commentary delivered directly to your headphones. Information displays, overhead HD videos, and a comfortable climate-controlled environment complete your unforgettable experience.
On board the train
Forget just getting there. The Coastal Pacific transforms your travel into an experience. Journey in comfort and style, soaking in the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand's Coastal passage by train.
Comfort with a view
Relax and unwind with ample legroom and spacious seating. The airy ambience creates a pleasant atmosphere for you to sit back, unwind, and soak in the ever-changing scenery.
Generous windows frame breathtaking views throughout your journey. New Zealand's rolling hills, dramatic coastlines, and majestic mountains will unfold before your eyes, transforming the train into a moving observatory.
Generous windows frame breathtaking views throughout your journey. New Zealand's rolling hills, dramatic coastlines, and majestic mountains will unfold before your eyes, transforming the train into a moving observatory.
Open air carriages
Don't just see the scenery, feel it. The Open-air Viewing Carriage offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories on your New Zealand adventure. Step outside the ordinary and experience the magic for yourself!
To ensure your comfort, we recommend bringing warm clothes and sunglasses. New Zealand's weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared to embrace all that the outdoors has to offer.
To ensure your comfort, we recommend bringing warm clothes and sunglasses. New Zealand's weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared to embrace all that the outdoors has to offer.
Cafe and Service
The Scenic Cafe features a menu brimming with fresh, local ingredients, offering a taste of New Zealand with every bite.
Succulent braised beef cheeks and vibrant Moroccan spiced vegetable salad tantalise your taste buds. Or savour one of the timeless classics of roasted free-range chicken or a hearty lamb shank.
Succulent braised beef cheeks and vibrant Moroccan spiced vegetable salad tantalise your taste buds. Or savour one of the timeless classics of roasted free-range chicken or a hearty lamb shank.
Connect with the stories of New Zealand
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of New Zealand's North Island. Our GPS-powered commentary unveils a captivating blend of stories, local legends, and historical insights about the passing landscapes.
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For train enthusiasts the Raurimu Spiral is an engineering masterpiece, thanks to Robert Holmes who in 1898 solved the puzzle of how to cross the steep slopes between the Volcanic Plateau and valleys of the Wanganui River.
The Tongariro Crossing
Journey at your pace...
The beauty of the Northern Explorer lies not just in the breathtaking views, but also in the flexibility it offers. Unlike traditional point-to-point journeys, you can transform your trip into a multi-stop adventure.
Disembark at any station and explore the unique character of each region at your leisure. Then, simply hop back on the next northbound or southbound train to continue your adventure.
You could visit the volcanic wonders of Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend a few days exploring its majestic volcanoes, pristine lakes, and thrilling adventure activities. Refreshed and rejuvenated, rejoin the Northern Explorer and let the journey continue!
Disembark at any station and explore the unique character of each region at your leisure. Then, simply hop back on the next northbound or southbound train to continue your adventure.
You could visit the volcanic wonders of Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend a few days exploring its majestic volcanoes, pristine lakes, and thrilling adventure activities. Refreshed and rejuvenated, rejoin the Northern Explorer and let the journey continue!
Northern Explorer timetable
Northern Explorer Auckland to Wellington trains depart southbound on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Northern Explorer Wellington to Auckland trains depart northbound on Friday, Sunday, and Wednesday.
It’s important to know you must book in advance to travel on this train as they are not able to take walk-on passengers once the train is fully booked.
Northern Explorer Wellington to Auckland trains depart northbound on Friday, Sunday, and Wednesday.
It’s important to know you must book in advance to travel on this train as they are not able to take walk-on passengers once the train is fully booked.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some of our most common questions. If you need any more assistance we'd be happy to help.
Do I need to book a ticket in advance?
How do I receive my ticket?
What time should I check in for my train?
How much carry-on luggage can I bring on board?
Are there toilet and washroom facilities onboard?
What accessibility and disability assistance is available on the trains?
Photographing Mount Ruapehu from the Northern Explorer.
Book your adventure on the Northern Explorer
Travel 648km and through five unique regions of the North Island
Photographing Mount Ruapehu from the Northern Explorer.
Book your adventure on the Northern Explorer
Travel 648km and through five unique regions of the North Island
If you have any questions or want to get in touch...
For information about making bookings or travel in New Zealand get in touch with our team of experienced locals.