This nearly 12-hour journey takes you through the spectacular sights of New Zealand from North to South. Enjoy the longest-running passenger service in the country, travelling from Auckland to Wellington on a route through some of the most incredible landscapes in the world, and some of the most beautiful national parkland you have ever seen.
 |
 |
 |
The amazing journey takes you on a trip right through the heartland of New Zealand
You’ll witness three spectacular volcanic mountains -Tongariro, Ngāuruhoe and Ruapehu- as well as a whirling mix of exotic New Zealand culture
This journey doesn’t have to be taken all in one go either. Make it the journey of a lifetime by opting for a flexi fare, enabling you to hop on and off with unlimited stopovers, perfect for enjoying the country at your own pace.
Discover your journeys below
The Route: Auckland – Papakura – Hamilton – Otorohanga (Waitomo) – National Park – Ohakune – Palmerston North – Paraparaumu – Wellington
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Auckland | Hamilton | Waitomo Caves | National Park | Wellington |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enjoy the buzzing city of Auckland. With plenty of nightlife to keep you entertained, including bars and eateries, there’s also the 3 miles of coastline and the world-famous Sky Tower to | Hamilton is the garden-paradise of New Zealand. A wonderful place to explore by foot and Lord Of The Rings fans can visit the infinitely famous Hobbiton! | Fan of water sports? Waitomo Caves is a great place to indulge in a bit of rafting and abseiling. Don’t forget to go glow-worm spotting! | The Tongariro Crossing is the perfect place to take in the wild landscapes of the National Park. From green fields to snowcapped mountains, this is a sight not to be missed. | Welcome to the capital of New Zeland! Wellington is at the southernmost point of the Northern Island and home to a bustling nightlife and a great selection of eateries and bars. |
Auckland – Papakura – Hamilton – Otorohanga (Waitomo) – National Park – Ohakune – Palmerston North – Paraparaumu – Wellington
The seating on board the Northern Explorer is arranged in a 4 seat with an aisle down the middle configuration. These can either be as a table or in forward-facing pairs. The large panoramic windows make this a great way to experience the dramatic landscape
There is a café carriage on board, serving a range of light meals, drinks (both soft drinks and alcoholic drinks), and snacks. Each carriage has toilet facilities on board and a fantastic viewing carriage to immerse yourself in the landscape.
This is a regular train service which can be used to hop on and hop off. The operating days are as follows:
Monday, Thursday and Saturday
Wednesday, Friday and Sunday
Stops along the way include Papakura, Hamilton, Otorohanga (Waitomo), National Park, Ohakune, Palmerston North and Paraparaumu.
