We wish to inform our valued passengers of an important update for those planning to travel on the Northern Explorer train during the upcoming scheduled network upgrade periods.
Affected Dates:
15 January 2025 to 27 January 2025
12 April 2025 to 28 April 2025
Impact on Travel: During these periods, the tracks between Auckland Strand Railway Station and Hamilton will be closed for train travel due to essential upgrade work to prepare for the City Rail Link's opening in 2026.
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 either Papakura or Auckland Strand Station.
Important Update for All Bookings Until 27 January 2025:
All bookings made up to and including 27 January 2025 (both old and new) will automatically receive a replacement bus service for the affected section of the route.
For April 2025 travel, we are currently accepting bookings to and from Hamilton only, and passengers should consider alternative transport to and from Auckland.
Scenic Routes Unaffected:
Rest assured, you will not miss a significant portion of the scenic route, as the most picturesque parts of the journey are located south of Hamilton. The train journey between Hamilton and Wellington will operate as usual, allowing you to experience the breathtaking landscapes and highlights that make this journey unforgettable.
Alternative Travel Options: For travelers not included in the transfer bus:
Consider arranging private transportation between Auckland and Hamilton.
Local bus or coach services may be available as an alternative.
If you need assistance identifying suitable travel options, don't hesitate to get in touch with our New Zealand Travel Team for guidance.
Flexibility for Travelers: To accommodate your needs, we offer the following options:
Reschedule your travel to a future date.
Request a 100% refund if you prefer not to travel.
We apologize for any inconvenience caused by this disruption and remain committed to providing as much assistance as possible.
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
Discover the real Middle-earth with a guided tour of the Hobbiton movie set, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies.
Highlights:
Guided tour of The Shire film set at Hobbiton
See Hobbit holes, The Green Dragon Inn, the Mill, the Party Tree and much more
Explore the rural township of Matamata
Travel to Matamata, a quintessentially rural Kiwi town in the Waikato region of the North Island, well-known for its thoroughbred industry and dairy farming. Nearby, hidden in picturesque private farmland with spectacular views of the Kaimai Ranges, is the famous Hobbiton movie set, where Sir Peter Jackson filmed his award-winning 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' movies.
The charming countryside of The Shire, as described in JRR Tolkien's books, was painstakingly recreated on a working sheep and beef farm. The home of plucky little hobbits like Bilbo, Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin has been preserved since filming wrapped, and now draws visitors from around the world.
Visit Hobbiton and see where the movie magic was created with a guided tour. You'll get the chance to see Hobbit holes, the Mill, the Green Dragon Inn and many other structures created for the films, and learn how farmland was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-earth.
Please note that coach travel is onboard our scheduled InterCity services and does not include commentary.