Important travel update regarding the Northern Explorer train

 

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

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Hobbiton Movie Set Tour (Rotorua to Auckland) GS48S (1320 - 2010)

Setting out from Rotorua, your Hobbiton Movie Set tour starts with a scenic drive across the Kaimai Ranges to Matamata, a small town in the Waikato region known for its thoroughbred industry and dairy farming. Along the way your local driver guide will provide informative commentary and share stories about the region and its history.

Just outside of Matamata is the private working farm that was transformed into The Shire for the award-winning The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movie trilogies. The home of Tolkien's beloved hobbits Bilbo, Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin has been preserved since filming wrapped, and now draws visitors from around the world.

Take a two-hour guided tour of the movie set and learn how this picturesque farmland was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-earth. Your guide will show you Hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Party Tree, the Mill and many other structures from the movies.

After your Hobbiton movie set tour, continue to Auckland, arriving in the evening.

Tour details
    Full day tour
    Operates daily
    Departs Rotorua, arrives Auckland

Tour includes
    Luxury coach travel Rotorua - Hobbiton - Auckland
    Hobbiton Movie set guided tour

Free WiFi available on board

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour - Rotorua to Auckland
Sat 06 Dec
Sun 07 Dec
Mon 08 Dec
Tue 09 Dec
Wed 10 Dec
Thu 11 Dec
Fri 12 Dec
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