Private Tour
Ultimate self-drive rail car journey
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Travel along scenic railway lines in a self-drive rail car, offering a unique perspective of Rotorua’s breathtaking landscapes, 1000 year old virgin native forests, rolling farmland and views over Lake Rotorua. With space for up to four passengers, these petrol-electric rail cars provide comfortable seating and clear views through waterproof sides, allowing you to savor the sights as you cruise at a leisurely 20km/h. Listen to the audio tour and delve into the rich history of New Zealand’s railways while enjoying stunning views of Lake Rotorua and Mount Tarawera. This innovative experience is perfect for families and adventurers alike, making it a must-do when in Rotorua.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Pet friendly
Baby changing Station at Mamaku Station
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
The Rotorua Railcruising Station is your starting point for your journey up the rails. After a short safety briefing your guide will settle you into your rail car and set you up the track. On the way you will see rolling farmlands, 1000 year old native forests, views over Lake Rotorua.
Passing through the site of the now gone Tarukenga Station, you can see to your side Toi te Whenua, a 5.5 m high aluminium sculpture positioned alongside the road to greet travelers as they enter Rotorua from the Waikato side.
What‘s Included
Audio Guide
Water
Coffee /tea / hot chocolate and a cookie available at Mamaku Station
Your own railcar/s for your trip. Each car takes up to 4 people.
Options
Ultimate self-drive rail car journey
Reviews
25 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Very disappointing
sherylr698,Apr 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00Very disappointed as the first day it was cancelled and we rebooked for next day then that was also cancelledbut wasnt told till late and we left the place we were at to go when we could have stayed longer if known. We wont be in a hurry to go back
Beautifully unique in a good way
Yvonne J,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Staff was so helpful and the railcars fun. You get to see sites from a unique vantage point. GO and Enjoy
This was a great repurposing of an abandoned section of railway.
Oscardog16,Mar 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00The purpose-built electric cars travelled approximately 15 kms between two towns on autopilot. There was interesting commentary that was geo-located. On the return leg from Mamuka to Ngongotaha, the views of the countryside and Lake Rotorua were spectacular. We cruised between 3pm – 5pm and it was sunny and approximately 20° C. It does get naturally cooler as you ascend 300m but there are blankets supplied. The car travels at about 20 km/h and is suitable for all ages. It is not a thrill ride and there are no sharp turns. We highly recommend this tour.
Drive your own train!
CathyC625,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Lots of fun travelling at some speed in your own little 'train', great way to get off the beaten track. Great views in places although some areas were enclosed by trees etc. Great to have blankets and roll down side panels to keep off the wind. Complimentary coffee and biscuits provided at the halfway point.
Loved it
Explore813375,Mar 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Loved the trip. It has been on our list to do. Perfect day, fantastic views back across the Lake. Nice areas of native bush. Good commentary covering the history and the area.
A fun train ride.
881warrenb,Mar 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00This was a fun thing to do, we had rainy weather so we had to put one side cover down to stop getting wet from the wet bushes, but a would go again.
Great trip, not to long.
LynnH2093,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Was a fun experience, some lovely views. Blankets provided as it was a little cold up in the Mamakus, the cars have see through sides if the weather is marginal. Recorded commentary provided on local history was good however while the back row of the car could hear it, we at the front could not - on the return journey in a different car all was ok. I would suggest that an update to the system like the Hop On Hop off buses overseas could be a great edition and easier for those that are hard of hearing. Another suggestion if traveling in a group of 4, swap the seating on the way back is a great idea, you get a different perspective/view. Safety briefing was good natured, fun and purposeful, all the staff we meet were great -- happy, polite and helpful.
Toot
Rodney E,Mar 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Pretty. Wear a jacket. Slow going up, great coming back with great views of the lake.................
NZ tour
Compass08369220079,Mar 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00A fabulous concept!! If you like the massive variance of greenery, this is a good chance to see it as you go. There is a great view of Lake Rotorua towards the top with some other lovely areas A couple of points to consider though... Although the views are great, there might not be enough of them Cars might be in need of an update ( a little loud) They could do with some support from businesses or attractions at the top A great idea
Suitable for all ages great fun!
karanh 12,Mar 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent fun! Book early We felt one way was enough for us Beautiful scenery, suitable for all ages
Related Experiences
Operated by Rotorua Rail Cruising