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.
Starting in Auckland, travel north on one of GreatSights' comfortable and air-conditioned deluxe coaches on this Bay of Islands day tour. Sit back, relax and enjoy the informative commentary as you cross the iconic Harbour Bridge, and soak up New Zealand's spectacular scenery of rural countryside and sub-tropical bush en route to the beautiful Bay of Islands.
After arriving in Paihia, visit Waitangi for a guided tour of the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds where in 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between Maori and the British Crown. Explore the original Treaty House, one of New Zealand's oldest and most visited historic homes and the Te Whare Runanga, a fully carved Maori meeting house, which is representative of all iwi (regional tribes) in New Zealand. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds offer a truly unique insight into New Zealand's early history.
Back in Paihia, you'll board the Dolphin Seeker, our purpose built catamaran licensed by the Department of Conservation for dolphin and whale viewing. Enjoy the large outdoor viewing decks as we cruise past the islands of the Bay. Keep a look out for common and bottlenose dolphins, whales and other marine life as our experienced local skippers get you up close to the action.
Cruise past the Cape Brett Lighthouse, before arriving at the majestic Hole in the Rock. Admire the rock walls towering above you as the skipper navigates right through the narrow space (conditions permitting) before heading back into the inner islands of the Bay.
Tour Details
Full day tour
Operates daily
Departs and returns: Sky City Coach Terminal
Tour Includes
Return coach travel from Auckland
Guided tour of Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Bay of Islands dolphin watching cruise
Travel to the famous 'Hole in the Rock'
Free WiFi available on board the coach
Please note: this tour operates on Christmas Day (25th Dec) and Waitangi Day (6th Feb) but does not include the visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds on those days.
