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 a half-day tour from Rotorua to the Hobbiton Movie Set and take a tour of the farm that was transformed into a Middle-earth filming location. Your Hobbiton tour starts with a scenic drive across the Kaimai Ranges to the small town of Matamata. During your coach trip your local driver guide will entertain you with stories and information about the region and its history.
Just outside the town of Matamata is your destination: Middle-earth! Sir Peter Jackson and his team knew this private farm would make the perfect spot to build the village of Hobbiton for the award-winning The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movie trilogies. Take a guided tour and see the picturesque village you saw on screen in living colour before you.
See the Hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Party Tree, the Mill and many other structures from the movies, while learning about how the set was built. You might even hear a few secrets from behind the scenes!
After your Hobbiton movie set tour, return to Rotorua, arriving at 1pm.
Free WiFi available on board
