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
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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 Plus
Scenic Plus
Included Food and Beverage
Scenic
Auckland to Wellington: 10.5 hour train journey from Auckland to Wellington
Reviews
190 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
a
Lance c,
Oct 19, 2025
- Viator
3.00We could not enjoy the experience as the train was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. There was flooding from bad weather.
Broken train and poor handling of the problem
salvatore g,
Sep 22, 2025
- Viator
1.00The train broke down but the worst thing was the management that followed, they decided to tow the train back and let us take a replacement bus, and to do this they took more than 5 hours.
Green new zealand
Inga S,
Sep 17, 2025
- Viator
5.00When I booked this i knew it was more expensive,booking with the restaurant.$300 more...I ate at the snack bar which was ok.especially for the price difference.the scenery was just beautiful.the train ride was confortable,but I was ready to get there.the people working on the train were very nice.
Train experience
Anja,
Aug 30, 2025
- Viator
4.00The ride and impressions during the ride due to the spectacular nature were great. However, it was very noisy on the train due to the many other passengers and there can be 11 hours very long. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the ride. Thanks for the opportunity.
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.
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Operated by Great Journeys New Zealand