Service Announcement: Northern Explorer Bus Replacements – Auckland to Hamilton/ Hamilton to Auckland

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.


For further inquiries or assistance with your travel plans, please contact our New Zealand Travel Team.
Our friendly New Zealand Travel Team is available from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm (New Zealand Time) Monday - Sunday, excluding public holidays.
For assistance and reservations during our opening hours contact our New Zealand Travel Team by email or phone.  To cancel a reservation, please email us at info@newzealandtravelteam.com before 72hrs or 3 days from the travel date.

Phone
You can call one of our English-speaking Consultants at +64 7 575 5049
Current New Zealand time: 

Within New Zealand:
Reservations only with payment -           0800-143-669
Travel planning and all other inquiries - +64 7 575 5049
Outside New Zealand: 
+61 1800 359 729      Australia Toll-free
+1   855 413 3019    USA Toll-free
+1   866 554 0304    Canada Toll-free
+44 800 0148106     United Kingdom Toll-free
 
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Christchurch To Mount Cook Day Tour: One Way GL61 (0720 - 1255)

Embark on a scenic half-day tour from Christchurch to spectacular Mount Cook.

Leave Christchurch on a luxury coach and enjoy picturesque views of the Canterbury plains before arriving at Lake Tekapo for a rest break. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and take pictures of the Church of Good Shepherd surrounded by crystal clear waters. Enter the impressive Southern Alps and continue towards Mount Cook. Compelling commentary from the driver on the region's culture and history will keep you entertained on board. Arrive at Mount Cook, feel free to explore the village and its surroundings at your leisure.

Tour details:

  • Half-day tour
  • Operates daily
  • Departs Christchurch, arrives Mt Cook

Tour includes:

  • Canterbury Plains
  • Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki
  • Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

free wifi iconFree WiFi available on board

Christchurch To Mount Cook Day Tour: One Way GL61 (0720 - 1255)
Departure City Arrival City Departure Time Arrival Time
Fares
Fare Type Adults Price Child Price
 
Christchurch Mt Cook 07:20 AM 12:55 PM

Day Excursions :-

Tour TRAVEL FROM Christchurch TO Mt Cook ONLY - GL61

Embark on a scenic half-day tour from Christchurch to spectacular Mount Cook.

Leave Christchurch on a luxury coach and enjoy picturesque views of the Canterbury plains before arriving at Lake Tekapo for a rest break. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and take pictures of the Church of Good Shepherd surrounded by crystal clear waters. Enter the impressive Southern Alps and continue towards Mount Cook. Compelling commentary from the driver on the region's culture and history will keep you entertained on board. Arrive at Mount Cook, feel free to explore the village and its surroundings at your leisure.

Tour details:

  • Half-day tour
  • Operates daily
  • Departs Christchurch, arrives Mt Cook

Tour includes:

  • Canterbury Plains
  • Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki
  • Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

free wifi iconFree WiFi available on board

Departure : Outside Bus Interchange on Lichfield Street, near Colombo Street
Arrival : Aoraki Lobby, Hermitage Hotel, Level 2 Rear of Building Coach Park