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.
Spend a morning exploring Queenstown on a guided tour, taking in some of the region's best sights and activities.
Travel up the Queenstown Hill and enjoy spectacular bird's-eye views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables. Your friendly local driver guide will provide entertaining and informative commentary throughout your tour.
Discover the secrets of bungy-jumping with a behind-the-scenes tour of AJ Hackett's world famous Bungy Bridge and watch the jumpers from the viewing deck. Visit the award-winning Gibbston Valley Winery, founded by a pioneer of the Central Otago wine industry, and sample a selection of wines produced on site. You can also browse the winery's well-stocked gift shop and the region's only cheesery.
Have your camera at the ready as you are transported into Middle-earth at the Kawarau Gorge, film location for the 'Pillars of the Kings' in The Lord of the Rings. Then discover beautiful Arrowtown's captivating history and colonial architecture. Highlights are the Lakes District Museum and the Chinese miners' settlement, as well as plus boutique shopping, great cafés and restaurants.
We recommend bringing a camera on this tour. In the winter months a warm jacket is advised, and in the summer months bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a sunhat.
