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.
Take an exhilarating journey into the heart of Mt Aspiring National Park, experiencing a thrilling jet boat ride amid breathtaking scenery. Walk amongst ancient forest unchanged for 80 million years and view the awe-inspiring locations of many Middle Earth movie scenes.
Leaving Queenstown, travel along one of the world's top 10 scenic drives to the settlement of Glenorchy at the head of Lake Wakatipu. Your journey continues with Dart River Jet Safaris, the only jet boat operator allowed on the Dart River.
Navigate the ever-changing shallow channels of the glacier-fed braided river system – complete with jet spins! Your expert driver will stop along the way to highlight the breathtaking scenery and discuss what makes this unique area so significant.
Explore New Zealand's unique vegetation and wildlife on a 30-minute guided bush walk on a rolling trail through ancient native beech forest. Guides will share their knowledge of the area's history, with stories of the greenstone trail and Maori legends.
Travel by four wheel-drive bus along a back-country route, where you'll learn more about this fascinating area and stop to view the spectacular scenery that has formed the epic backdrop for many international movies, including Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
At the end of your safari, take a break for lunch in Glenorchy before returning to Queenstown by coach.
Highlights:
Dart River jet boating
Guided forest walk
Back-country scenic bus tour
Useful Tips: Life jackets and wet weather gear are supplied for your jet safari; however warm clothing is advised. GPS commentary is available in Mandarin, Japanese and Spanish during the bush walk and coach sectors of your Wilderness Safari tour. Headsets are available free of charge but must be pre-booked to avoid disappointment.
