The Heartland Explorer | Palmerston North to Waipukurau or Dannevirke & Return + Dannevirke to Waipukurau & Return. 

Experience the charm of a scenic rail journey from Palmerston North, travelling into the heart of central Hawkes Bay and return, onboard our heritage train. Relax in comfort as we wind through rolling hills, cross historic viaducts and pass over glistening rivers with breathtaking views at every turn. 

Departing Palmerston North, we travel east towards Ashhurst, the entrance to the mighty Manawatu Gorge. Enjoy the serene beauty of the Manawatu Gorge as your train gently negotiates its way along the edge of the Manawatu River, dividing the great Ruahine and Tararua ranges - an experience only possible now by rail. Leaving the gorge, we make a brief operational stop at Woodville, the junction of the Wairarapa and Napier line, before heading north towards central Hawkes Bay. 

Our train gradually climbs out of Woodville, along Papatawa and onto our first good climb up the Matahiwi bank - be sure to listen out for our classic diesel engine working hard! Beyond the grade, our train skips along the Maharahara plains. Capture the vibrant farmlands stretching as far as ther eye can see, guided by the Ruahine ranges on our left. Not long after passing Oringi and Tahoraiti, we arrive at Dannevirke, the iconic Scandinavian settled township. 

For those passengers who have chosen Option 1, you disembark here and have just on five hours to explore this proud historical town with Scandinavian roots. Check out the museum, some of the local shops and one of the many cafes on the main street, or perhaps visit family. Remember to be back at the station ten minutes before we depart at 3pm.

Options 2 & 3 passengers will carry on north towards Waipukurau. Departing Dannevirke, we will continue our journey into the rolling foothills of central Hawkes Bay. As the train glides through lush farmlands and native flora, we'll pass through the quaint towns of Ormondville and Takapau - each with their own unique history. Ormondville was once a bustling railway town in the late 1800s/early 1900s, and it still retains its charming heritage rail precinct - a window into New Zealand's railway past. Passing through Takapau, famous for its flax milling in the late 1800s/early 1900s, and the settlement of Hatuma, we soon descend towards Waipukurau, marked by the sweeping landscapes and fertile plains. 

Arriving into Waipukurau, known as the heart of central Hawkes Bay, you have just over an hour to explore the local culture, boutique stores and quaint cafes. 

Boarding at Waipukurau at 1.15pm, we retrace our steps in the afternoon warmth, back to Dannevirke to set down and pick up passengers at 3pm, then back towards Palmerston North, and through the Manawatu Gorge once again.

This journey provides not just beautiful vistas, but a true taste of the region's heritage and rural life - perfect for a relaxing and enchanting escape in the heartland.

Option 1  | Palmerston North to Dannevirke and Return!

Take a leisurely rail adventure to Dannevirke. Founded in 1872 by Scandinavian settlers, stands as a testament to New Zealand’s rich immigrant history and a thriving community rooted in Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish traditions. Check out a museum, local wares or lunch at one of the cafes. 

Timetable

Option 2  | Palmerston North to Waipukurau and Return!

A journey with all the highlights - rivers, a gorge, viaducts, bridges, charming landscapes, steeped in history. Journey with us through old New Zealand right into the heart of central Hawkes Bay. At Waipukurau, enjoy the rich local culture, architecture, as well as investigating local stores and cafes. 

Timetable

Option 3  | Dannevirke to Waipukurau and Return!

Calling all Dannevirke locals!! Once again, GVR brings you the opportunity to catch a train from YOUR very own railway station. Come join us for a journey to Waipukurau, the heart of central Hawkes Bay. A wonderful little day out retracing rails that date back 133 years. 

Timetable