Spirit of the Antipodes; Private North Island Train Tour

Embark on a remarkable private, heritage North Island train tour and uncover the heart and soul of Te Ika-a-Māui.

Journey through a landscape rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and captivating contrasts, from volcanic peaks to rolling farmland, from historic townships to sweeping coastal vistas. This exclusive North Island train tour offers a truly unique way to experience New Zealand, combining the romance of rail travel with hand-picked experiences in some of the island’s most iconic destinations.

Travelling by rail is one of the most relaxing and rewarding ways to see New Zealand. Sit back in comfort as the scenery unfolds, marvel at impressive feats of railway engineering like the legendary Raurimu Spiral, admire the majestic silhouette of Mt Taranaki, and soak up the character and charm of Napier’s Art Deco cityscape.

Along the way, enjoy overnight stays in memorable destinations such as Ohakune, New Plymouth, and Napier, where handpicked excursions bring each region to life. Explore fascinating museums in the Taranaki region, discover the artistry of Napier’s streets, and witness the awe-inspiring gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers.

Fully escorted throughout, this North Island train tour is designed for travellers who appreciate history, nature, and the timeless appeal of rail adventures. You’ll return to Hamilton or Auckland having experienced some of the North Island’s true hidden gems – landscapes, stories, and connections that make this North Island train tour an unforgettable journey through the beating heart of New Zealand.

North Island Train Tour Highlights

Skyline Rotorua – Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar offers one of the best buffets in New Zealand with incredible views overlooking Lake Rotorua and the city. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring a stunning array of freshly prepared dishes highlighting locally sourced seafood, meat and produce. The contemporary ambience features luxurious Italian marble, granite, schist, timber and David Trubridge lights, while the panoramic view of Lake Rotorua offering a sight to behold.

Rotorua Rail Cars – An extraordinary experience totally unique to New Zealand. The Rail Cruising journey is the world’s first fully automated, state of the art petrol-electric four seat self-drive hybrid Rail Cruiser. Cruise along the Rotorua Railway Line in our Rail Cruiser with comfortable seats, unobstructed views and listen to the history of Mamaku, Rotorua and the Railway.

Tawhiti Museum – Widely regarded as the best private museum in NZ, Tawhiti Museum features thousands of life-size models and scale figures to tell Taranaki’s history. Tawhiti Museum presents South Taranaki history in a lively informative way, using lifesized figures, scale models, light and sound effects and of course artifacts. From early Maori settlement to the present day the museum presents stories of the people of South Taranaki.

Art Deco Napier – Napier is renowned for its art deco architecture, a charming relic of its post-earthquake rebuilding in the 1930s. This coastal city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with galleries, boutique shops, and cafes lining its streets, offering visitors a taste of its eclectic charm.

PS Waimarie – As the last coal-fired paddle steamer in operation in the Southern Hemisphere, the Paddle Steamer Waimarie offers an unforgettable journey through time. Step back into history and experience the charm of the riverboat era while cruising the tranquil waters of the Whanganui River.

Your Exclusive Private North Island Train Tour

Experience rail travel as it used to be on board Glenbrook Vintage Railway’s exclusive private train. Step aboard our lovingly restored carriages and relax in the comfort only rail travel can provide. All the while being treated to the best hospitality on the rails. Access railway lines no longer traversed by by regular passenger trains, and see sights that are only accessible by rail.

Your North Island train tour is operated by the Glenbrook Vintage Railway will be hauled by restored locomotive DBR1254. Originally built by General Motors of Canada in 1965, this locomotive was rebuilt by Clyde Engineering Australia in 1981.

In 2017 the GVR took ownership of DBR1254 which underwent an intense overhaul before returning to mainline service in 2019. The carriages date from 1909 – 1940 and would have made thousands of journeys up and down the country. The carriages retain key features including the iconic flip-over seats. The seats are well-sprung allowing for a comfortable ride. Open-air platforms along the train are great vantage points to view the countryside as the wind blows through your hair!

Noth Island Train Tour Accommodation

Rotorua – Novotel Rotorua Lakeside. Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Rotorua, the Novotel Rotorua Lakeside offers tranquil surroundings with sensational views of the stunning natural scenery and geothermal wonders. With a central location that provides easy access to cafés, restaurants, there’s plenty to enjoy at the Novotel Rotorua Hotel. Idyllic nature and geothermal pools makes this the ultimate destination. We stay here for 2 nights.

Ohakune – Nestled in the picturesque township of Ohakune at the base of the majestic Mount Ruapehu, the Ruapehu Mountain Motel provides access to the regions spirit of pure outdoor freshness. From the snow covered peaks to the lush native bush and the bubbling mountain streams Ohakune links you to all that is good in life. We enjoy a 1 night stay in Ohakune.

New Plymouth – The Millennium Hotel New Plymouth is located in the heart of the Central Business District with panoramic views of the Tasman Sea. Overlooking the Len Lye Wind Wand and the Coastal Foreshore Walkway, this property is within walking distance of many of the city’s attractions including the Pukeariki Museum & Information centre, the Len Lye Centre and Govett Brewster Art Gallery, main street shopping, bars, cafes and the world famous Pukekura Park. We stay here for 2 nights.

Palmerston North – The 5 storey Distinction Hotel boasts 85 well appointed guest rooms and free WIFI; it is the ideal Palmerston North accommodation choice for travellers who appreciates great value, convenience and excellent accommodation. The Palmerston North hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from shops, the museum, Palmerston North Conference & Functions Centre on Main St, art galleries & theatres. The tour enjoys two separate nights here.

Napier – Located on the waterfront with panoramic Pacific Ocean views, the Art Deco Masonic Hotel features free WiFi and historic Art Deco architecture. Guests enjoy 2 bars and 2 restaurants. It is 2 minutes’ walk from the main street of Marine Parade and located opposite MTG Hawke’s Bay and The Art Deco Centre. Each individually styled studio and apartment includes a flat-screen TV, a small refrigerator and tea/coffee making facilities. All accommodation includes a modern en suite bathroom. Most rooms have access to a large rooftop balcony with ocean views. We stay in Napier for 3 nights.

Please note: Accommodation on your North Island train tour may change or be different to that which was advertised. You will be accommodated in an equivalent or better accommodation should the advertised option not be available or not able to accommodate our group in one place. 

For a detailed itinerary, departure details, and booking conditions, please see below or contact us to receive an easy read brochure.

Click here for alternate Heritage Rail Tours designed for steam enthusiasts or rail-fans.