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.
Experience New Zealand's unique indigenous culture, famous geothermal activity and be part of movie history on an action-packed day trip around Rotorua and the Central North Island.
Start with a tour of the top Rotorua visitor attractions: Te Puia, the Agrodome and Rainbow Springs. At Te Puia's cultural centre you'll learn about Maori culture and history, then visit the neighbouring Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley where you can see geysers, bubbling pools of volcanic mud and steam shooting out of the earth.
Then see Kiwi agriculture in action with a sheep-shearing display and sheep dog trials at the Agrodome, a working organic farm where you can learn all about farming in New Zealand. At Rainbow Springs Nature Park, see the famous New Zealand kiwi bird and other native birds, animals and wildlife.
After enjoying these highlights of Rotorua, your tour travels over the Kaimai Ranges to Matamata for your Hobbiton Movie Set tour. Visit the farm where Sir Peter Jackson built the village of Hobbiton for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies. Learn how the private farm was transformed into The Shire from Middle-earth and see Hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn and the Mill on a guided Hobbiton tour before returning to Rotorua.
Tour details
Full day tour
Operates daily
Departs and returns: Tourism Rotorua
Tour includes
Te Puia cultural tour and Thermal Valley
Agrodome sheep show
Rainbow Springs Nature Park
Tour of Hobbiton Movie Set
Free WiFi available on board
