Northern Explorer Train Journey from Auckland to Wellington
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
New Zealand's longest running passenger service, the Northern Explorer is a long distance scenic train service running between Auckland and Wellington. Experience the extremes of New Zealand's scenery, from the fertile farmlands of Waikato to the volcanic peaks of the Central Plateau and the sparkling Kapiti Coast.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if travelling with a wheelchair.
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Please arrive at least 20 minutes prior to scheduled departure and check in at the station to receive your boarding pass
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
GPS triggered audio commentary
One Way Rail Journey
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and Drinks (available to purchase)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Excess luggage charges (where applicable)
What To Expect
Travel through rolling green farmland, past quaint country towns and along rocky coasts. The journey through Tongariro National Park, with its three spectacular volcanic mountains- Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu- is a highlight, a place of extremes and surprises, where snow-blanketed fields, ancient lava flows and dense beech forests can be seen side by side. Traverse stunning river gorges and wind through the Raurimu Spiral near National Park, an amazing feat of railway engineering. While on board enjoy the journey in award winning world class carriages with specially designed seats. Awaken your senses in the open air viewing decks or sit back and enjoy the GPS triggered audio commentary available through headphones at every seat. All trains have a licensed café carriage providing snacks and light meals.
Options
Scenic
Auckland to Wellington: 10.5 hour train journey from Auckland to Wellington
Scenic Plus
Scenic Plus
Included Food and Beverage
Reviews
183 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great travel experience
Carol B,
Jun 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00Lovely smooth trip, beautiful scenery and great service. Easy hassle free boarding. Great seating with lots of leg room. Super helpful staff.
The ultimate experience
Stuart P,
Apr 4, 2025
- Viator
5.00The team on board where amazing great vibes always there to help great selection in the Cafe cart the quiz was fun
Scenic relaxing ride...
Kevin C,
Mar 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00Scenic relaxing ride through the new Zealand countryside. Staff was professional and courteous. I had a chance to converse with many different people with various backgrounds and cultures
A long beautiful train ride
Michel S,
Mar 21, 2025
- Viator
4.00You go through a lot of cities. So, it’s not all sight seeing. The food is good but not enough employees, so be patient. Picture opportunities are frequent but you need to outside in that open wagon a very long time. All worth once in your life.
OK but better marketing than actual
ANTONY F,
Mar 20, 2025
- Viator
3.00Long journey.. uncomfortable if you get put into a four, especially if facing backwards... we had poor visibility for 1st half. It is pretty but a little monotomous
Related Experiences
Operated by Great Journeys New Zealand