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.
Take a full-day tour to the fascinating Waitomo Glowworm Caves in the Central North Island.
Leaving Auckland in the morning, we travel through rolling farmland into the Waikato and King Country regions. Your local driver guide will point out highlights of the region, like Rangiriri, where a major battle was fought between British forces and those loyal to the Maori King movement in 1863.
After arriving in the small town of Waitomo, you'll be taken on a 45-minute guided tour through the world famous Glowworm Caves. Formed from limestone over 30 million years ago, the caves were first discovered in 1887 and are now one of New Zealand's most popular tourist destinations. Wander through subterranean caverns and learn about stalagmites, stalactites, helictites and other spectacular rock formations. Finish off your tour on a short but enchanting boat ride travelling through the Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of glowworms light up the darkness like tiny stars.
After your Glowworm Caves tour you'll have leisure time at the Waitomo visitor complex, where you can enjoy the stunning views and learn more about the region. Restaurant and cafe style meals are available (own expense), or a buffet lunch can be pre-booked. After your Waitomo experience draws to a close, board the coach for the return trip to Auckland, arriving in the afternoon.
Useful info: We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and taking a warm jacket for your Waitomo Glowworm Caves guided tour.
Tour Details
Full day tour
Operates daily
Departs Auckland, returns Auckland
Tour Includes:
Luxury coach travel Auckland - Waitomo Caves and return
Guided tour of Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Informative driver commentary
Waikato and King Country scenery
Free WiFi available on board
