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 stunning scenery above and below ground on a sightseeing day tour from Rotorua to the fascinating Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
Leaving Rotorua in the morning, travel through lush farmland, enjoying commentary from your local driver guide, who will point out sites of interest like Fitzgerald Glade, where trees have formed a tunnel of natural greenery arching over the road.
On arrival in the small town of Waitomo in the King Country, take a 45-minute guided tour through the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, which were discovered in 1887 and are now one of New Zealand's most popular tourist attractions. See vaulted caverns, stalactites and stalagmites and hear how these limestone formations were created over millions of years. Your tour ends with a boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto, a subterranean cavern illuminated by the lights of thousands of tiny glowworms – it's magical!
After your Waitomo Caves tour we retrace our steps and return to Rotorua, arriving in the early afternoon. A picnic lunch may be booked (optional extra) and enjoyed on board the coach. The tour concludes on arrival in the geothermal hotspot of Rotorua.
Tour details
Half day tour
Operates daily
Departs and returns: Tourism Rotorua
Tour includes
Luxury coach travel Rotorua - Waitomo - Rotorua
Guided tour of Waitomo Caves
Fitzgerald Glade
Free WiFi available on board
