11 Day Shared Rail Tour of NZ North Island

Planning a trip to New Zealand often means dreaming of dramatic landscapes, fascinating history, and unforgettable adventures. This 11-day rail tour, operated by Glenbrook Vintage Railway, promises an intimate journey through the North Island’s most captivating sights aboard a private vintage train. We’ve taken a close look at what this experience offers — from scenic train rides to unique excursions — to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Kiwi adventure.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to travel on a private heritage diesel train is a rare treat, especially with the mix of scenic views and curated stops. Second, the variety of activities — such as paddle steamer rides and museum visits — add layers of authentic local flavor. Third, the accommodation in charming towns along the route offers a relaxing, immersive experience.

A potential consideration is the tour’s pricing. At over $5,300 per person, it’s a substantial investment, but one that many will find justified by the exclusivity and quality of the experiences. It’s best suited for those who value comfort, scenic travel, and curated tours over budget options, and who don’t mind the group size being limited to 40 travelers.

Who is this tour perfect for? If you love vintage trains, scenic landscapes, and authentic excursions, this tour is ideal. It also appeals to history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking a relaxed but richly curated experience of New Zealand’s North Island.

Key Points

• Luxury vintage train experience with exclusive overnight stays in picturesque towns
• Curated excursions like paddle steamer rides, museum visits, and scenic viewpoints
• Authentic local flavors showcased through specially prepared meals
• Stunning landscapes including iconic sites like the Raurimu Spiral and Cape Kidnappers
• All-inclusive pricing covers transport, activities, and most meals
• Limited group size ensures personalized attention and a comfortable journey

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Vintage Railway & Welcome Dinner

Your adventure begins at the Glenbrook Vintage Railway, where heritage diesel locomotives DC 4818 and DBR 1254 will haul you along the historic Waiuku Branch Line. This nostalgic journey offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s rail past while allowing you to enjoy the scenic countryside. The train ride lasts about 8 hours, and admission to the railway is included, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views.

Following the train experience, you’ll be welcomed with a dinner at the Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar, included in the package. The meal offers a chance to get acquainted with your fellow travelers and settle into the relaxed pace of the tour.

Day 2: Rotorua and the Redwoods

Departing early, the journey heads north from Rotorua, famous for its geothermal activity and vibrant Māori culture. The route takes you around the western side of Lake Rotorua before heading inland to Mamaku, a town with a timber milling history, until its last mill closed in 2015.

The day includes a Rotorua RailCruising experience, where you’ll enjoy a 3-hour scenic ride giving you a good sense of the region’s natural beauty. The Redwoods Treewalk then offers a two-hour walk through towering native trees, perfect for nature lovers seeking fresh air and impressive forest vistas.

Day 3: Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty

You’ll leave Rotorua by coach heading to Tauranga, where the journey continues along the waterfront past estuaries and salt marshes. The Bay of Plenty region is known for its lush landscapes and thriving kiwifruit industry, which you’ll see firsthand as the train skirts through this fertile area.

This day’s focus is on scenic travel and exploring the coastal scenery, with the option to enjoy the relaxed vibe of Tauranga in your free time.

Day 4: Whanganui River & Paddle Steamer

After traveling inland through central North Island, you’ll arrive at Upokongaro on the banks of the Whanganui River. Here, the iconic Waimarie paddle steamer awaits, offering a two-hour cruise that transports you back in time. Reviewers have noted that this activity provides a nostalgic glimpse into New Zealand’s river transport history and offers unique photo opportunities.

This day combines scenic train travel with a classic steamship experience, making it a highlight for vintage and river lovers alike.

Day 5: Taranaki Region and Tawhiti Museum

Exploring the Taranaki region, you’ll visit the Tawhiti Museum, renowned for its detailed life-size exhibits and intricate scale models depicting South Taranaki’s past. Reviewers mention that the museum’s craftsmanship is impressive, and the exhibits provide a tangible connection to the region’s history.

Additional stops include viewing the Waitara Railway, offering a glimpse into local rail history and operations, enriching your understanding of New Zealand’s rail development.

Day 6: Central Hawkes Bay and Napier

Heading south, the tour retraces its route through orchards and rolling hills, passing steep sections like the Opapa Bank. Travelers have appreciated the opportunity to witness the locomotive straining up the climb, which adds a dash of excitement to the scenic daylight journey.

Overnight stays are typically in Napier, a city famous for its Art Deco architecture and seaside charm, setting the stage for the next day’s explorations.

Day 7: Napier and Oruawharo Homestead

Departing Napier, you’ll travel northeast along the Palmerston North-Gisborne line, again aboard the vintage diesel locomotive DBR1254. The route offers more scenic views, with stops at notable heritage sites like the Oruawharo Homestead. This historic estate provides insight into early settler life, and reviews mention that the guided visit is both informative and charming.

Day 8: Cape Kidnappers and Gannet Safaris

A real highlight is the trip to Cape Kidnappers, where a tour with Gannet Safaris takes you over working farms to see New Zealand’s largest gannet colony. This experience is combined with a wine tour, offering a taste of local wines and fresh farm produce amid stunning coastal scenery.

Reviewers have called this day “a feast for the senses,” noting the impressive gannet colonies and the scenic drive over farmland.

Day 9: Napier’s Art Deco & Leisurely Exploration

The Art Deco charm of Napier shines through on this day. Visitors can choose to explore the city in vintage cars, learning about the 1936 earthquake that reshaped the city’s architecture. The Art Deco Trust offers engaging guided tours, with reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see behind-the-scenes stories of the city’s rebuilding.

Day 10 & 11: Return South and Final Journeys

The journey south retraces the scenic orchards and rolling hills of Central Hawkes Bay. The last days involve a mix of scenic train travel and nostalgic moments, culminating in a longer day’s ride through the central North Island’s rugged terrain, including the famous Turangarere horseshoe.

The final day wraps up with a 10-hour journey back to Palmerston North, leaving you with plenty of memories and photos of New Zealand’s diverse landscapes.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Scenic train rides are at the core of this experience, and the private vintage railway adds a special, nostalgic touch that many travelers find charming. The route covers a good mix of coastal, river, and inland scenery, giving a well-rounded view of North Island landscapes.

Exclusive excursions like the paddle steamer Waimarie and Tawhiti Museum add layers of authenticity, taking you beyond the typical sightseeing stops. These activities are curated to give travelers an insight into New Zealand’s maritime history, local industries, and cultural fabric.

Accommodation in small towns like Napier, Rotorua, and Upokongaro means you get a taste of local life, not just touristy hotspots. This makes the experience more immersive and relaxed.

Meals showcasing local flavors keep the journey grounded in regional produce, which reviewers say enhances the overall value and authenticity of the trip.

Group size of up to 40 travelers balances intimacy with social energy, and the inclusion of many pre-booked activities ensures a smooth, well-organized experience.

Value and Pricing: Is It Worth It?

At $5,330.72 per person, this tour is an investment. However, considering the private train experience, curated excursions, all-in transportation, and included meals, many find the value worthwhile. The exclusivity of the vintage train, combined with the variety of activities and scenic stops, justifies the price for those seeking a premium, immersive experience.

Some reviewers have pointed out the comfort of the included accommodation and the professionalism of the guides, which adds to the overall value. That said, this is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, unique experiences, and curated itineraries over budget options.

Final Words: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 11-day North Island rail adventure is crafted for those who love scenic train journeys, authentic experiences, and exploring New Zealand at a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and train aficionados who want to combine stunning landscapes with cultural insights.

Travelers who appreciate well-organized tours with curated activities and are comfortable with group travel will find this experience enriching. It’s also suitable for those who don’t mind spending a premium on a highly curated, all-inclusive journey that promises unforgettable vistas and charming local encounters.

If you’re after a unique way to see New Zealand’s North Island without the hustle of self-driving or the rush of large coach tours, this journey offers a rare opportunity to enjoy the country’s diverse scenery aboard a nostalgic, private train.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility? Unfortunately, it’s not recommended for those with limited mobility, as managing luggage and participating in all activities requires some physical mobility.

Are meals included in the tour? The tour offers curated meals featuring local flavors, with some meals included, particularly the welcome dinner and special activity lunches. Most activities are part of the package.

How many people will be on the tour? The tour has a maximum of 40 travelers, offering a balance of social atmosphere and comfort.

What kind of train will I be riding? You’ll travel aboard a private diesel-hauled heritage train, operated by Glenbrook Vintage Railway, with locomotives DC 4818 and DBR 1254.

Are the excursions optional? Most excursions are included and curated as part of the package, designed to enrich your experience. Some activities, like the museum visits and scenic drives, are integral to the itinerary.

Does this tour include overnight stays? Yes, you will stay overnight in charming towns like Napier, Rotorua, and others, providing time to relax and explore at your own pace.

To sum it up, this 11-day rail trip presents a compelling blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and vintage charm. It’s a memorable way to experience the North Island’s highlights, especially if you’re drawn to historic trains and curated excursions. The journey’s pace, combined with its authentic stops, makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a relaxed yet immersive New Zealand adventure.