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.
Escape the big smoke and discover the magical Waitomo Caves on this great value return day trip from Auckland. Travelling south from Auckland, this full day Waitomo Caves tour will take you on a journey through the lush and rolling countryside of the Waikato and King Country regions, giving you a taste of rural New Zealand.
At the Waitomo Caves you'll meet your knowledgeable local guide, who will give you a tour of the caves including commentary on their fascinating geological and cultural history. Formed over 30 million years ago, the caves are a natural wonder and are easily accessible by both young and old.
Highlights of your 45-minute Waitomo Caves tour include the awe-inspiring Cathedral - a cavern 18 metres high with wonderful natural acoustics, and the enchanting Glowworm Grotto, which you'll experience by boat. With thousands of sparkling glowworms spread across the ceiling like a blanket of stars this is a peaceful and magical experience that's hard to beat.
At the end of the boat ride you will emerge into a picturesque setting of native New Zealand bush before following a short trail back up to the Waitomo Caves visitor complex. Here you can take in the views and enjoy lunch (own expense), before returning to Auckland in the afternoon.
