We wish to inform our valued passengers of an important update for those planning to travel on the Northern Explorer train during the upcoming scheduled network upgrade periods.
Affected Dates:
15 January 2025 to 27 January 2025
12 April 2025 to 28 April 2025
Impact on Travel: During these periods, the tracks between Auckland Strand Railway Station and Hamilton will be closed for train travel due to essential upgrade work to prepare for the City Rail Link's opening in 2026.
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 either Papakura or Auckland Strand Station.
Important Update for All Bookings Until 27 January 2025:
All bookings made up to and including 27 January 2025 (both old and new) will automatically receive a replacement bus service for the affected section of the route.
For April 2025 travel, we are currently accepting bookings to and from Hamilton only, and passengers should consider alternative transport to and from Auckland.
Scenic Routes Unaffected:
Rest assured, you will not miss a significant portion of the scenic route, as the most picturesque parts of the journey are located south of Hamilton. The train journey between Hamilton and Wellington will operate as usual, allowing you to experience the breathtaking landscapes and highlights that make this journey unforgettable.
Alternative Travel Options: For travelers not included in the transfer bus:
Consider arranging private transportation between Auckland and Hamilton.
Local bus or coach services may be available as an alternative.
If you need assistance identifying suitable travel options, don't hesitate to get in touch with our New Zealand Travel Team for guidance.
Flexibility for Travelers: To accommodate your needs, we offer the following options:
Reschedule your travel to a future date.
Request a 100% refund if you prefer not to travel.
We apologize for any inconvenience caused by this disruption and remain committed to providing as much assistance as possible.
For further inquiries or assistance with your travel plans, please contact our New Zealand Travel Team.
Our friendly New Zealand Travel Team is available from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm (New Zealand Time) Monday - Sunday, excluding public holidays.
For assistance and reservations during our opening hours contact our New Zealand Travel Team by email or phone. To cancel a reservation, please email us at info@newzealandtravelteam.com before 72hrs or 3 days from the travel date.
Phone
You can call one of our English-speaking Consultants at +64 7 575 5049
Current New Zealand time:
Within New Zealand:
Reservations only with payment - 0800-143-669
Travel planning and all other inquiries - +64 7 575 5049
Outside New Zealand:
+61 1800 359 729 Australia Toll-free
+1 855 413 3019 USA Toll-free
+1 866 554 0304 Canada Toll-free
+44 800 0148106 United Kingdom Toll-free
North Island
Auckland
The Strand Station
Address: Ngaoho Place, The Strand
The Strand is approximately 15-20 minutes walking distance from Britomart.
Set down/pick up and long-term paid parking is available
Optional taxi/shuttle bus services are available
Hamilton
Frankton Railway Station
Address: Fraser Street, Frankton
The railway station is not located in the city centre
Located 15-20 minutes walk from city centre
Set down/pick up parking available only
Medium or long parking is not available
Optional taxi/shuttle bus service is available
Otorohanga
Otorohanga Railway Station
Address: Waihanui Crescent
Railway Station is located in the town centre
Set down/pick up parking available
Taumarunui
Taumarunui Railway Station
Address: Hakiaha Street
Railway Station is located in the town centre
Set down/pick up parking available
National Park (Tongariro National Park)
National Park Railway Station
Address: Ruapehu Street
15-minute walk to National Park village
Set down/pick up parking only.
Shuttle bus services to National Park or Whakapapa Village are available for an additional fare
Ohakune
Ohakune Railway Station
Address: Thames Street
The railway station is not located in the town centre
Set down/pick up parking only
20 minutes walk to the town centre
Palmerston North
Palmerston North Railway Station
Address: Matthew Avenue
The railway station is not located in the city centre
Set down/pick up parking only
No medium or long-term parking is available
Optional taxi/shuttle bus service is available
Wellington
Wellington Railway Station
Address: Bunny Street, City Centre
Located in the city centre.
Set down/pick up parking only
No medium or long-term parking is available
Interchange for suburban train and bus services
Bluebridge Ferry Terminal opposite Station
The departure point for Cook Strait ferries courtesy shuttle
Optional taxi/shuttle bus services are available
South Island
Picton
Picton Railway Station
Address: Auckland Street
10 minutes walk to Picton ferry terminal or town centre
Set down/pick up parking only
Optional taxi service is available
Blenheim
Blenheim Railway Station
Address: Sinclair Street
Located 10-15 minutes walk from the town centre
Set down/pick up parking only is available
Optional taxi/shuttle bus service is available
Interchange for bus services to Picton, Nelson, Motueka and Takaka (Able Tasman National Park)
Kaikoura
Kaikoura Railway Station
Address: Whaleway Station Road
15-minute walk to the town centre
Set down/pick up parking only
Optional taxi service is available
The departure point for Whale Watching tours
Christchurch
Christchurch Railway Station
Address: Troup Drive off Clarence St, Addington
The railway station is not located in the town centre
Set down/pick up parking only
Limited unsecure all-day parking at owners/hirers' risk
Optional taxi/shuttle bus services are available
10 minutes to the city centre by taxi or shuttle bus
Arthurs Pass
Arthurs Pass Railway Station
Address: Main Road (State Hwy 73)
Located 10 minutes walk from the village
Set down/pick up parking only
Gateway to Arthurs Pass National Park
Park Headquarters located in the village
Greymouth
Greymouth Railway Station
Address: Mackay Street
10-15 minutes walk to the town centre
Set down/pick up parking only
No medium or long-term parking is available
Rental car pick up/drop off available
Departure for all bus services for the Glaciers and Nelson
Optional taxi service is available
