Important travel update regarding the Northern Explorer train

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.  

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Cape Kidnappers Gannet Tour ex Te Awanga Base

Our regular gannet tours are perfect for individuals and small groups, up to 8 people.  You'll enjoy your gannet tour of the world's largest, most accessible gannet colony whilst travelling through spectacular Hawke's Bay scenery in air conditioned comfort in our specialised 4x4 vehicles. And with Gannet Safaris you will get you closer to the gannets at Cape Kidnappers than with any other tour. 

During your tour there will be many fabulous photo opportunities which will leave you with fond memories we hope you will share with your family and friends. 

  • Be accompanied by an experienced driver/guide who will provide a knowledgeable and insightful commentary throughout the tour
  • Travel in air conditioned 4x4 comfort
  • Experience some breathtaking scenery
  • Visit a production forest
  • View a predator proof reserve
  • Visit a New Zealand native forest
  • View significant geological landscapes
  • Visit a working farm of over 5000 acres
  • View Cape Kidnappers' International Golf Course
  • Learn about local Maori legend
  • And discover the largest mainland gannet colony in the world from your position at the brink of the cliffs edge - 100 metres above the ocean, whilst being served light refreshments as you enjoy watching the gannets perform around you.

All this will take approximately 3 hours and you need not take a step if you don't want to!

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Tour ex Te Awanga Base
Fri 30 May
Sat 31 May
Sun 01 Jun
Mon 02 Jun
Tue 03 Jun
Wed 04 Jun
Thu 05 Jun
Service is unavailable today, please select further day.