Important travel update regarding the Northern Explorer train

 

We wish to inform our valued passengers of an important update for those planning to travel on the Northern Explorer train during the upcoming scheduled network upgrade periods.

Affected Dates:

15 January 2025 to 27 January 2025

12 April 2025 to 28 April 2025

 

Impact on Travel: During these periods, the tracks between Auckland Strand Railway Station and Hamilton will be closed for train travel due to essential upgrade work to prepare for the City Rail Link's opening in 2026.

From Auckland to Hamilton: Passengers will transfer by bus from Auckland Strand or Papakura Station to Hamilton Station.

From Hamilton to Auckland: Passengers will transfer by bus from Hamilton Station to either Papakura or Auckland Strand Station.

 

Important Update for All Bookings Until 27 January 2025:

All bookings made up to and including 27 January 2025 (both old and new) will automatically receive a replacement bus service for the affected section of the route.

For April 2025 travel, we are currently accepting bookings to and from Hamilton only, and passengers should consider alternative transport to and from Auckland.

 

Scenic Routes Unaffected: 
Rest assured, you will not miss a significant portion of the scenic route, as the most picturesque parts of the journey are located south of Hamilton. The train journey between Hamilton and Wellington will operate as usual, allowing you to experience the breathtaking landscapes and highlights that make this journey unforgettable.

 

Alternative Travel Options: For travelers not included in the transfer bus:

Consider arranging private transportation between Auckland and Hamilton.

Local bus or coach services may be available as an alternative.

If you need assistance identifying suitable travel options, don't hesitate to get in touch with our New Zealand Travel Team for guidance.

 

Flexibility for Travelers: To accommodate your needs, we offer the following options:

Reschedule your travel to a future date.

Request a 100% refund if you prefer not to travel.

 

We apologize for any inconvenience caused by this disruption and remain committed to providing as much assistance as possible.

For further inquiries or assistance with your travel plans, please contact our New Zealand Travel Team.

Our friendly New Zealand Travel Team is available from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm (New Zealand Time) Monday - Sunday, excluding public holidays.

For assistance and reservations during our opening hours contact our New Zealand Travel Team by email or phone.  To cancel a reservation, please email us at info@newzealandtravelteam.com before 72hrs or 3 days from the travel date.

Phone
You can call one of our English-speaking Consultants at +64 7 575 5049
Current New Zealand time: 

Within New Zealand:
Reservations only with payment -           0800-143-669

Travel planning and all other inquiries - +64 7 575 5049
Outside New Zealand: 
+61 1800 359 729      Australia Toll-free
+1   855 413 3019    USA Toll-free
+1   866 554 0304    Canada Toll-free
+44 800 0148106     United Kingdom Toll-free
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New Zealand long distance passenger train services

Northern Explorer: Auckland-Wellington-Auckland train service

A scenic rail journey through the heart of New Zealand's beautiful North Island. The Northern Explorer train service connects Auckland, New Zealand's largest city and home of the Sky Tower; to Wellington, New Zealand's arts and culture capital. You‘ll travel through rugged native bush, up the world famous Raurimu Spiral to the alpine desert Central Plateau. Enjoy views of its majestic volcanoes, then descend through stunning river gorges to the rocky seascapes of the lower North Island. See it all from the comfort of your carriage through panoramic windows. Read more

Coastal Pacific: Christchurch–Picton–Christchurch train service

A scenic rail journey from Christchurch to Kaikoura, Blenheim and Picton — the gateway to the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. Your journey takes you through picturesque countryside, with the Kaikoura mountain ranges on one side of your train and the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline on the other. Travel through some of New Zealand's finest farmland and wine growing regions, and see marine birds, seals and penguins from the comfort of your carriage. Panoramic windows ensure your stunning views are uninterrupted. Read more

Tranz Alpine: Christchurch–Greymouth–Christchurch train service

A scenic rail journey from one coast of the beautiful South Island to the other through the famed Arthurs Pass. You'll see the rich farmlands of the Canterbury Plains, then ascend the Southern Alps through the spectacular river gorges and valleys of the Waimakariri River to Arthurs Pass. Enjoy a stunning descent through the Otira Tunnel and lush beech alpine rain forests to Greymouth — the gateway to the South Island's West Coast and glaciers. Read more

Regional passenger train services in New Zealand

Alongside the three long distance passenger train services in New Zealand there are also two regional passenger train services.

  • The Capital Connection train operates between Wellington and Palmerston North Monday to Friday 
  • The Wairapapa Connection train operates between Wellington and Masterton seven days a week.

There are no overnight regional or long distance passenger train services in New Zealand.

Travel to other major tourist destinations in New Zealand is by scenic bus and coach services from either Auckland, Hamilton, Christchurch or Greymouth.