Between 15 January 2025 and 27 January 2025 and Between 12 April 2025 and 28 April 2025.
Essential upgrade work will be taking place on the Auckland network to prepare for the City Rail Link to open in 2026. The tracks between Auckland Strand Railway Station and Hamilton are closed for train travel for this portion of the line while the Rail Network Rebuild work takes place.
We are very pleased to advise that the Northern Explorer service will go ahead as planned however the first 2.5 hours portion of your journey will be replaced by bus.
The bus will follow the standard timetable:
· Auckland departure at 7.45am
· Papakura departure at 8.35am
· Hamilton arrival at 10.10am
The transfer bus will meet the Northern Explorer train at Hamilton Railway Station. The train will depart Hamilton at 10.15am and continue travelling to Wellington following the standard train timetable.
Discover the beautiful Bay of Islands on a full-day tour, including an afternoon cruise on its sheltered waters.
Highlights:
Return bus travel from Auckland to Paihia
Dolphin cruise to Cape Brett
Photo opportunities
Departing central Auckland, your tour will take you across the Harbour Bridge and north through scenic New Zealand countryside to the seaside township of Paihia in the Bay of Islands. This historic and strikingly beautiful region is known as the birthplace of New Zealand.
In Paihia, the crew of the Fullers GreatSights 'Dolphin Seeker' will welcome you on board. This purpose-built catamaran is licensed by the Department of Conservation for dolphin and whale encounters.
Set off on a Bay of Islands cruise, enjoying stunning views of the region's many islands as you head out to the Cape Brett Lighthouse and through the famous Hole in the Rock (conditions permitting). Throughout your cruise your skipper will keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life, and where possible get up close to these playful creatures. After docking back at the pier in Paihia, you'll be met by your driver for the return trip to Auckland by coach.
free wifi iconFree WiFi available on board bus
Please note that coach travel is onboard our scheduled InterCity services and does not include commentary.
