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 Maori culture, geothermal landscapes and native wildlife on this morning sightseeing tour of Rotorua, ending with a scenic lake cruise.
The first stop on your tour is Te Puia, one of New Zealand's foremost cultural venues. Immerse yourself in Maori tradition, see master carvers and weavers at work, then enter the neighbouring Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley – an extraordinary landscape of geysers, steam and bubbling pools of boiling mud.
Meet New Zealand's national bird, the world famous kiwi, at Rainbow Springs Nature Park. See kiwi in the nocturnal viewing house and learn about conservation efforts to protect these endangered birds. You can also get up close to a wide range of native and exotic birds, fish, reptiles and other animals.
Then get a taste of New Zealand's agricultural industry at the Agrodome, a working farm where you can see all kinds of rural action! See sheep-shearing and watch sheep dogs being put through their paces in this entertaining and informative show about farming in New Zealand.
Your tour concludes with a one hour lunch cruise around Lake Rotorua on board a historic paddle boat, the Lakeland Queen. Take in the sights of Sulphur Bay, Hinemoa's Point, Mokoia Island and Kawaha Point, while enjoying a tasty buffet lunch.
Free WiFi available on board
