Tours/Auckland/Northern Explorer Train Journey from Auckland to Wellington
Viator · group up to 15 pax

Northern Explorer Train Journey from Auckland to Wellington

4.2(224)Auckland1 hour
VIATOR4.3(122)TRIPADVISOR4.2(102)

Description

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.

Tour Options

Scenic
  • Auckland to Wellington: 10.5 hour train journey from Auckland to Wellington
Scenic Plus
  • Scenic Plus Included Food and Beverage

Highlights

All taxes, fees and handling charges
GPS triggered audio commentary
One Way Rail Journey

What's included

Included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
GPS triggered audio commentary
One Way Rail Journey
Not included
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and Drinks (available to purchase)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Excess luggage charges (where applicable)

Traveller Ratings

4.2
224 reviews
5
127
4
57
3
19
2
6
1
15

Important Information

  • 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

Reviews(224)

P
Peter_B
June 26, 2026
There are no headphones...

There are no headphones so you have to bring your own Service in dining carriage is very slow App needs updating of information Wonderful viewing

L
lynettemV1526FB
June 23, 2026
Stunning Views and Amazing Staff

Just amazing! Stunning views of volcanic landscapes, countryside, and the famous Raurimu Spiral. Comfortable seating and amazing staffs and delicious local food with local wine. One of the highlights of our 12 days New Zealand trip.

K
kevingF7897FE
June 9, 2026
Had a very nice time

People in charge,all were very nice.train comfortable,people all very nice ,thank you

S
Samuel_B
May 25, 2026
Expect the un expected

Due to northern explorer and general north island outage of all trains we were held up around fifteen minutes mid travel The courteous service made up for it

K
kabouter2018
May 14, 2026
Relaxing train travel with good scenery

Well worth doing this trip if you're in New Zealand and enjoy train travel. Great travelling from top to bottom of North Island in a relaxed manner. The open air carriage was the highlight for me. Plenty of toilets on board. Make sure you check in early. Do book larger bags in, however be prepared to wait when collecting at the end of the journey as there are many bags to unload. There are mobile device charging points at every seat. Plenty of leg room. There's a decent cafe-restaurant carriage. Prices are very reasonable. Have cash with you in case WiFi connectivity has fallen away. Snacks can be pre-booked online. The crew are helpful. Have your ticket readily available to show. There is good commentary throughout the journey without needing the website "app". The scenery is lovely, even if the weather is cloudy. Be prepared for windy and chilly Wellington. The train was very busy. Book well in advance.

C
Claire_B
May 11, 2026
Amazing experience

The staff are friendly, food is amazing and the views spectacular, would highly recommend and family

L
Leslie_M
May 8, 2026
Counting Sheep

Wonderful way to see New Zealand’s north island countryside. Made it a full day adventure round trip Auckland to Wellington and back with a flight back on Air New Zealand. Long day though we enjoyed the experience.

R
Road29707055788
May 4, 2026
Pleasure

I liked the staff attention, order, cleanliness, train comfort, beautiful scenery

R
Rudolf
May 2, 2026
Cannot be topped

From Auckland to Hamilton a lot of industry. But then, you must have seen it for yourself. The Northern Express very nice and extensive food all day.

L
Lindsay_R
April 13, 2026
Scenic trip of a lifetime to see New Zealand by train.

Long but scenic. The crew are very helpful and the process to board was streamlined. The food covered a lot of tastes and well priced. A must do trip for anyone. Just try to go on a clear day to enjoy the scenery. Highly recommended.

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