Discover stunning scenery only accessible by rail.
Explore the best of the North Island's scenic beauty - often overlooked.
Learn about the story of New Zealand's rail history, past and present.
Join the Glenbrook Vintage Railway as we experience some of the best of the North Island's scenic railways!
Embark on an extraordinary adventure with Glenbrook Vintage Railway aboard their private Diesel-hauled heritage train, journeying through the North Island's less-traveled railway routes, offering stunning scenery and showcasing some of New Zealand's famous locations. Experience iconic landmarks like the Raurimu Spiral and Mt Taranaki, alongside charming destinations such as Napier's Art Deco cityscape. Enjoy overnight stays in captivating spots like Ohakune, New Plymouth, and Napier, with handpicked activities and exclusive tours to enrich your exploration. Our tour in November 2024 will also coincide with the award winning Taranaki Garden Festival and discover the Gannet Colony & Cape Sanctuary in the Hawkes Bay. Our tour is fully escorted, ensuring every moment is filled with discovery and enhancing the allure of rail travel for enthusiasts of history, nature, and adventure alike.
We arrive back in Hamilton/Auckland having seen some of the jewels in the crown of the North Island - often understated for its beauty.
Travel with the Glenbrook Vintage Railway as we travel East & West and experience the romance of rail travel.
"A fabulous trip from start to finish, and a great way to enjoy New Zealand's beautiful countryside from a different perspective. The off-train excursions were also thoughtfully chosen, and very enjoyable and informative. Thanks to all the GVR team for your hospitality, and I look forward to travelling with you again."
- East & West November 2024 Traveller
"I have no hesitation in recommending this trip. The organisation was superb. A wonderful relaxed way of travelling through our beautiful country."
- East & West November 2024 Traveller
Experience the real Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. Your guided tour starts with a drive through our picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Take a look at Bag End, where Frodo and Bilbo’s adventures began. Get lost among the hobbit holes and visit the Green Dragon Inn, the mill and the Party Tree. Listen to spell-binding tales of how Hobbiton came to be.
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.
Unplugged yet still on the line as you travel the entire Forgotten World Railway on this two-day Rail Cart adventure from Taumarunui to Stratford. See the remnants of the original settlements along the line. Travel through coal country, farmlands, over bridges, through hand-built tunnels and past once-thriving towns that time seems to have forgotten. Stay over in the Republic of Whangamomona’s iconic hotel. Listen to the stories and relive the memories of New Zealand’s pioneering past.
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.
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.
Today our Glenbrook Vintage Railway charter train hauled by Heritage Diesel Locomotive DA1431 and DBR1254 takes us on the historic Waiuku Branch Line, before turning right at Paerata where we join the North Island Main Trunk Line to Pukekohe for passenger pickups with connecting AT Metro Services. We then continue to head south through the lush farmlands surrounding Franklin and the Bombay Hills. We descend down to Pokeno and Mercer, where we join the mighty Waikato River - passing through significant swamplands and through rolling countryside. Arriving in Hamilton we stop here to pick up those joining us from Rotokauri or Frankton Stations before we head East on the busy - freight only - East Coast Main Trunk Line.
Departing Hamilton (Frankton) we journey under the centre of Hamilton, through the old underground station, and across the Claudelands bridge over the Waikato River. We then travel east in a straight line through the Ruakura Innovation Park and out towards Morrinsville. At Morrinsville we turn right, passing over the Piako River, and follow gentle curves through to the junction at Waharoa. Here we proceed straight ahead to continue down the Kinleith Line (the route of the old Rotorua line), to our destination of Tokoroa.
At Tokoroa we transfer to our coach which transports us to Rotorua and our nights accommodation. After our arrival into Rotorua, and with time for dinner we head to the famous Redwoods Nightlights Treewalk. Bask in the glow of our magical wonderland as the 120-year-old Redwoods forest comes to life by night. Walking high above the forest floor and beneath these gentle giants, you are transported to a captivating world of colour and light, where forest and fantasy come alive.
Today we depart central Rotorua and head around the western side of the lake before heading inland to Mamaku. Mamaku, originally Kaponga, was famous for native timber milling with the last mill closing in 2015. Mamaku was the highest point on the now-mothballed Rotorua Branch.
On our arrival in to Mamaku we embark on our first 'rail-cart' experience with the RailCruisers on the old Rotorua Branch from Mamaku to Ngongotaha.
We return to Rotorua, making a stop at the popular Skyline Rotorua Gondola and Luge. Here we stop of a buffet lunch at what can only be described as one of the best buffets in the country. There is time here for a luge ride and a coffee before we return to our accommodation where the rest of the afternoon is provided free for your leisure.
Today we depart Rotorua heading the short distance to Matamata and Hobbiton.
Fall in love with the Alexander family sheep farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did, as you journey through the unequivocal beauty of the land, with the mighty Kaimai Ranges towering in the distance. Your guide will then escort you around the set, showing the intricate detailing, pointing out the most famous locations and explaining how the movie magic was made.
You will be fully guided around the 12 acre set; past Hobbit Holes™, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth™ adventure. Experience the taste of the Shire™ with a delicious buffet lunch served in the Party Marquee. Your meal is served buffet style from a specially themed table, bursting with hobbit fare, with shared table seating to dine family style with your group.
Departing Hobbiton we spend time exploring a selection of historic sites in the area before arriving at the Zealong Tea Estate. Widely regarded as a Waikato icon, Zealong Tea Estate is the only commercial tea estate in New Zealand, producing 100% organic award-winning tea, and a world-leading destination for tea, art and hospitality.
We enjoy a high tea at Zealong and time to explore the estate and gardens before heading to Hamilton and our accommodation for the night, arriving late afternoon.
This morning we depart our central Hamilton accommodation and head to Hamilton's Frankton Station where we meet our GVR Tour Train. Leaving Hamilton and exiting out of the mighty Waikato, we glide through the rolling farmland and skirt many rivers, gorges and valleys as we enter the King Country.
We arrive in pass through Taumarunui and it is all up hill to the famous Raurimu Spiral taking us up to the central plateau. We skirt the bottom of the imposing mountains as we arrive into National Park around Lunchtime. We relocate to back to Taumarunui. We then head the short distance to Bradley's Gardens. The Gardens have been meticulously designed with nine distinct areas for you to explore, each with its own unique charm. These include the charming cottage garden, the inviting gazebo lawn, the fragrant lavender lane, the enchanting Italian garden, the serene olive grove cathedral, and the signature amphitheatre.
We depart Bradlay's Garden and are transported to our accommodation for the night.
Check in at the Forgotten World Motel and take a shuttle bus to the start of the line at Okahukura. Here you’ll board your Rail Cart and set off on your journey through the Forgotten World. Immerse yourself in the changing views of rolling hills, remote farmland and native bush, and experience wildlife close to the tracks. Stop along the way to hear stories from your guide of the land, its people and history. Travel over bridges and through hand-built brick tunnels, including the line's longest tunnel at 1.5km, and journey through the Tangarakau Gorge.
Enjoy morning and afternoon tea stops at historic settlements of Matiere and Tangarakau, and a rail-side picnic lunch at Tokirima. Arrive in the Republic of Whangamomona, explore the area and its charismatic pub. Get booked into your accommodation and enjoy dinner bed and breakfast in this iconic New Zealand town.
Those who choose Option 1 will continue on Sunday with Option 1.
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For those not wanting to travel by rail cart on the Stratford Okahukura Line, we will relocate to New Plymouth by coach via the impressive Forgotten World Highway. We make stops along the way at Laurens Lavendar Farm outside of Taumarunui before callin in at the Republic of Whangamomona for lunch. Our coach then takes us over the Whangamomona Saddle and down the valley to Stratford. We rejoin the main highway and arrive in New Plymouth late afternoon.
Those who chose Option 2 today will partake in Option 2 on Sunday.
Depart Whangamomona and continue your journey to Stratford. Discover ever-changing vistas as you learn about the history of the area and the stories of the settlers. See redwood plantations, pine forest and deer farms and get up close and personal with local wildlife in sheep and beef country. Stop for morning tea and home baking at Te Wera Station siding, and visit an organic farm with the opportunity to sample and buy locally made produce. Enjoy lunch at Douglas Station, then continue your journey and marvel at the spectacular Mt Taranaki dominating the skyline. Travel on the largest bridge over the Patea River, and discover Taranaki dairy farmland. Arrive at Victoria Road in Stratford about 3pm.
We leave Stratford by road and arrive at our accommodation late afternoon with the evening free for your leisure.
Continuing our exploring from yesterday, today we head around the area of New Plymouth, making stops at the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, an award winning garden and lunch before returning to the city where there is time to explore the Len Lye Centre and city centre - or why not try one of the popular walks.
Our departure out of New Plymouth sees us rejoin our GVR Tour Train on the New Plymouth Waterfront. The rolling countryside and mountain views entertain you as we travel through the towns of Inglewood, Stratford, Eltham and on to Hawera. Passing Stratford, we get a glimpse of the southern connection to the mothballed Stratford – Okahukura Line. South of Hawera we travel past one of the country’s busiest milk factories at Whareroa. Passing through Patea we skirt the Waipipi Wind Farm, home to some of the country’s largest wind turbines. Descending the formidable Westmere Bank, we arrive into the outskirts of historic Whanganui, the other end of the river we met at Taumarunui.
Here we disembark our train a nd relocate to the wharf for lunch and a cruise aboard the PS Waimarie - last coal-fired paddle steamer in the Southern Hemisphere. After our splendid cruise along the lower reaches of the Whanganui River, we return to our train to continue our journey south.
South of Whanganui we pass through the Fordell and Turakina tunnels. At Marton we rejoin the North Island Main Trunk Line and descend down in to Feilding and, through the Bunnythorpe dips and arrive into Palmerston North.
A short relocation to our Hotel for the night provides the evening free at your leisure.
This morning we relocate to the railway station from our hotel and we depart north-east towards Napier on the Palmerston North – Gisborne line. Passing through the breath-taking Manawatu Gorge, now only accessible by rail, we pass through Woodville where we stop briefly before we continue north.
Rolling through the meandering countryside, north of Dannevirke we cross the six famous viaducts of Mangatera, Piripiri, Mangatewainui, Makotuku, Ormondville and Kopua. We make a stop in Waipukurau for lunch at a local eatery and time to stretch the legs.
The Pekapeka Wetlands signal our entry into the horticultural heart of the Hawkes Bay, often quoted as ‘The fruit bowl of New Zealand’ where we soon greet the coastline south of Napier, shortly before arriving into the heart of town.
We are relocated to our accommodation in Napier’s scenic centre.
Today is a leisurely day in Napier with a twist. This morning we split into groups and we have the opportunity to travel by vintage car around Napier and learn about the Art Deco scene and the 1936 earthquake that made Napier in to the Art Deco capital. There is also plenty of free time and the opportunity to explore the town at your leisure. In the afternoon we venture as out to one of the Hawkes Bay's most notorius wineries for a tasting and tour.
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Today’s travel retraces our steps, back down to Woodville. Leaving Napier we once again roll through the lush orchards and growing areas of central Hawkes Bay. You hear the locomotive work hard as we head up the Opapa Bank, the steepest on this part of the line between Napier and Woodville.
Between Waipukurau and Dannevirke we pass through several old towns of New Zealand, now reminiscing at their glory days in the height of the New Zealand Railways.
At Woodville we get the chance to see the Woodville Balloon Loop, an iconic piece of rail infrastructure as we head on our journey back through the Manawatu Groge.
After a short stop at Palmerston North, having turned our locomotive, we head north for Ohakune. We retrace our steps to Marton and start our climb up to the central plateau - a journey that is equally stunning and fascinating. On our ascent we pass over the 'big three' viaducts - South Rangitikei, Kawhatau and North Rangitikei. Crossing these viaducts is a highlight of today's journey - make sure you are on an observation balcony with camera in hand! Our train snakes its way up the valleys, passing through the once busy railway depot at Taihape. Our climb continues through the stunning native forests, through 'Rabbit Hole' Tunnel and around the Turangarere horseshoe curve which is surrounded by rolling farmland and broken hillsides before we emerge in Waiouru. We pass Tangiwai and the site of New Zealand's worst rail disaster before arriving in to Ohakune.
Today you have the choice to try out Ohakune's popular walking trails - including the reknowned Old Coach Road*
Our group activity sees us retrace our steps to Waiouru to have a look around the popular Waiouru Army Museum before we having lunch. On our return we call in to the Tangiwai memorial which we passed on our train the day prior. We have some time here to reflect on the tragic loss of lives and what remains one of New Zealand's worst disasters.
Returning to Ohakune mid-afternoon, there is time for a walk around some of the popular local walking trails or a visit to the Ohakune Railway Museum. Or do the walk to and from the Hapuawhenua Viaduct(2hrs return).
This evening we have our Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant - a chance to socalise with the crew and fellow passengers and reflect on our journeys thus far.
*For those that want a bit more adventure, we can arrange an alternative to the group program for you to do the full Old Coach Road, including bike hire and transfers to Horopito. Please make a note with your booking for more information.
Our Great North Island Railway Adventure comes to end today, but not without a 'bang!'. Climbing out of Ohakune we are almost immediately greeted by the stunning and impressive Hapuawhenua Viaducts. We get two for the price of one here, as we travel on the viaduct of 1980 and to our right will be the viaduct of 1907. From here we travel through the plateau high country, past Horopito and its famous 'Smash Palace' to the highest elevation on the New Zealand rail network, before crossing the 79 metre high Makatote viaduct. Catch a glimpse of Mt Ruapehu as we skirt our way around this beautiful maunga, crossing many creeks and streams before arriving at National Park.
From National Park, we descend down onto the engineering masterpiece that is the Raurimu Spiral. We descend over 130 metres, in 7 kilometres, 2 tunnels and lots of curves, into the township of Raurimu. From here we continue our descent towards the Whakapapa river and from Kakahi, the Whanganui river will guide us all the way to Taumarunui.
North of Taumarunui we pass the northern connection of the Stratford – Okahukura Line at Okahukura, a once busy junction of freight and passenger services. The Poro-O-Tarao Tunnel signifies the divide of the King Country and the mighty Waikato region as we roll down to Te Kuiti, our next stop. Views of Mt Pirongia fill our window to the left as we travel the rolling countryside and peat swamps of south Waikato before arriving into Hamilton. After farewelling those that joined us at Hamilton we follow the Waikato river through Ngaruawahia and the Taupiri gorge, before passing through more swampland in the northern Waikato region. Pokeno sees us start the climb up the Whangarata Bank to Pukekohe and the end of our tour with a late afternoon arrival at Papakura, before returning Glenbrook.
Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
2 Nights
Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Rotorua, this hotel 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.
Ibis Hamilton Tainui
1 Night
Ibis Hamilton is situated on the banks of the Waikato River, in the city centre. Ibis Hamilton Tainui offers easy access to river walkways, cafes and restaurants. The in-house Maakona Restaurant and Bar is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner and offers contemporary New Zealand cuisine. You can also dine alfresco, on the balcony. All of the comfortable rooms are well furnished and equipped with LCD satellite TV and individually-controlled air conditioning.
Forgotten World Motel/Alexander Motel/Twin Rivers Motel or Similar
1 Night
Located just a 5-minute walk from Taumarunui's town centre, Forgotten World Motel offers accommodation with free WiFi. All accommodation includes cable TV. Each room and apartment includes electric blankets, a toaster, and tea/coffee making facilities. Your private bathroom offers a toilet and shower. Ironing facilities are available upon request.
Whangamomona Hotel or similar
1 Night - Option 1
The Whangamomona Hotel embodies the rich and one-of-a-kind history of the Whangamomona community. The current hotel, built in 1912, stands on the site of the first hotel, which was destroyed by fire in 1911 with only the kitchen coal range surviving.
Millennium New Plymouth
2 Nights - Option 2 | 1 Night - Option 1
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.
Distinction Palmerston North
1 Night
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.
Art Deco Masonic Hotel - or similar
2 Nights
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.
Ruapehu Mountain Motel - or similar
2 Nights
Nestled in the picturesque township of Ohakune at the base of the majestic Mount Ruapehu, we would love to share with you our 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.
Please note: Accommodation 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.
Ask us about options for Pre/Post Tour accommodation and activites!
A full brochure and pricing are available on request.
To Book:
Fill in the Online Booking Request (Click Here).
Email: [email protected]
Phone 020 GVR Book | 020 487 2665
