Between 15 January 2025 and 27 January 2025 and Between 12 April 2025 and 28 April 2025.
Essential upgrade work will be taking place on the Auckland network to prepare for the City Rail Link to open in 2026. The tracks between Auckland Strand Railway Station and Hamilton are closed for train travel for this portion of the line while the Rail Network Rebuild work takes place.
We are very pleased to advise that the Northern Explorer service will go ahead as planned however the first 2.5 hours portion of your journey will be replaced by bus.
The bus will follow the standard timetable:
· Auckland departure at 7.45am
· Papakura departure at 8.35am
· Hamilton arrival at 10.10am
The transfer bus will meet the Northern Explorer train at Hamilton Railway Station. The train will depart Hamilton at 10.15am and continue travelling to Wellington following the standard train timetable.
Waitomo Caves Picnic lunch
Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour (10:45am-12:00pm)
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour (PM)
Experience guided tours of the Hobbiton Movie Set and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves on this full-day sightseeing tour
A hidden gem near the township of Matamata, the Hobbiton Movie Set is a world-famous film location of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.
See Hobbit Holes, stroll through the lush gardens, and learn how this private farm became Middle-earth.
Visit the enchanting Waitomo Glowworm Caves for a guided 45-minute tour through this underground wonder, seeing stalactites, stalagmites, and sparkling glowworms.
Useful Tip: A complimentary pick-up and drop-off service is provided from various inner-city hotels.
Tour details
Full day tour
Operates daily
Departs and returns: Sky City Coach Terminal
Complimentary Hotel pick-up/drop-off is available
Spacious and scenic coach travel with commentary
Tour includes
Hobbiton Movie Set guided tour
Banquet lunch at the Green Dragon Inn
Guided tour of Waitomo Caves
Free WiFi available on board
