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.
This full-day sightseeing tour will appeal to adventure seekers! Experience the ultimate alpine adventure with a scenic coach trip, adrenaline-charged jet boat ride, off-road exploration and a spectacular train journey to top it all off.
Leaving Christchurch, travel by coach through the Canterbury Plains to the Waimakariri Gorge. Experience the thrill of a 45-minute jet boat ride along the crystal clear 'Waimak' River. Your experienced guide will navigate through shallow waters and rapids and get your heart racing with 360° spins. Next, take a rugged four wheel drive journey across Mt Torlesse Station, a working sheep and cattle farm at the foot of the Southern Alps. Get an insight into faming in New Zealand as you traverse back country terrain amid stunning scenery.
Enjoy a delicious lunch in a countryside café before continuing through the Canterbury high country, stopping at glacier-fed Lake Pearson and passing by locations made famous in The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe and The Lord of the Rings films. At Arthur's Pass, high in the Southern Alps, board the TranzAlpine train, then sit back and relax on one of the world's top six rail journeys for a stunningly scenic ride back to Christchurch.
Tour details
Full day tour
Operates daily
Departs and returns: Rolleston Avenue
Tour includes
Canterbury Plains by coach
Jet boating on the Waimakariri River
Four-wheel drive journey through high country terrain
Famous TranzAlpine train journey
Notes: Please advise at time of booking if infants are travelling
