We wish to inform our valued passengers of an upcoming service change on the Northern Explorer train due to scheduled network maintenance.
Affected Dates:
27 June – 12 July 2025
19 – 30 September 2025
3 – 4 October 2025
Impact on Travel:
During these dates, the tracks between Auckland Strand Railway Station and Hamilton will be closed due to essential rail maintenance.
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 Papakura or Auckland Strand Station.
Scenic Routes Unaffected:
Rest assured, you will not miss a significant portion of the scenic route. The most picturesque parts of the journey are located south of Hamilton, and the train journey between Hamilton and Wellington will operate as usual.
Flexibility for Travelers:
To accommodate your plans, you may:
Reschedule your travel to a different date.
Request a 100% refund if you prefer not to travel during this period.
We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused by this disruption and remain committed to providing a safe and comfortable journey.
See the magical Hobbiton Movie set and experience an evening of culture, kai, and connection at Te Puia on this full-day tour from Rotorua.
Set off from Rotorua and travel north through lush farmland to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set.
Take a guided tour and discover how this working farm was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-earth. The Hobbiton Movie Ser located inside a picturesque 1,250-acre farm.
Hobbit Holes and the Green Dragon. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the party marquee before continuing your journey to Rotorua.
A courtesy drop off at the selected hotels, where you can relax before being collected by Te Puia Shuttle.
The Po combo, Te Ra Guided Experience and Indigenous Evening experience begins with 90 90-minute guided tour of the NZ Maori Arts & Crafts Institute, Kiwi Conservation Centre and Te Whakarewarewa geothermal valley.
Next, a mouth-watering hangi buffet, locally sourced cuisine with a Maori twist in each dish. Following on with a Maori cultural performance before finishing the night with a hot chocolate overlooking Pohutu geyser.
Useful Tip: A complimentary pick-up and drop-off service is provided from various hotels.
Free WiFi available on board
