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.
Discover three iconic Rotorua visitor attractions on a GreatSights morning sightseeing tour.
Experience Maori culture at Te Puia, seeing how ancient art forms are being passed on by master artists at their woodcarving and weaving schools. Then take a tour through a thermal valley full of forceful geysers and bubbling mud pools.
Explore Rainbow Springs Nature Park, where you can get up close to all kinds of native flora and fauna, including the famous kiwi, a flightless native bird. Then prepare for thrills at the Agroventures Adventure Park, New Zealand's one and only ultimate adventure playground. Your tour includes the choice of two activities and there's something for everyone!
Shweeb is the world's only human-powered monorail racetrack; Agrojet lets you try the fastest and only jet sprint experience in NZ; on the Swoop you'll swing from 40m towards the earth at 130kph; or have a go at Freefall Xtreme - the Southern Hemisphere's only outdoor wind tunnel. Set against the idyllic backdrop of Paradise Valley, you'll have an extraordinary adventure at Agroventures.
Free WiFi available on board
