Hundreds of visitors, many from all over the world have enjoyed the experience!

Welcome to Awakeri Rail Adventures in Whakatane. Travel along a piece of New Zealand’s rich rail history and experience the natural beauty and adventure from the comfort of a rail-cart, cleverly adapted to be self-driven along the rail tracks. Our rail cars are FULL self drive – you are in complete control of your rail vehicle – you may stop any where you wish to take photographs (or pick up your hat).

Your adventure starts from Awakeri traveling at a leisurely 25 kilometeres per hour with family and friends along a piece of historic railway line. There are 4 bridges, numerous cuttings and bush scenes along the track.

Tours Contact Us

  • star rating  Small train journeys in heartland New Zealand - The train was unique - whereby we had simple instructions to operate the individual carriages - and then ‘drive’ the car/train independently. It was such fun! Especially when we went... read more

    Pnolover
    June 30, 2024

  • star rating  Hubby and I were hosted by Paul, on 2nd January, and had a fabulous afternoon. Approx 3hrs return, with a few surprise stops along the way. Paul was very informative,... read more

    avatar thumb Toesontour19
    January 5, 2025

  • star rating  Coming from Australia we had never heard of the rail adventure but by chance, we were able to join in the fun.
    This activity has ended up being one of... read more

    avatar thumb MICHELLE W
    April 27, 2025

  • star rating  We booked last minute and Paul (owner) was happy to oblige.
    We shared the rail with one other group as well as Paul.
    Be aware that it's self-drive, but it's... read more

    avatar thumb Curious20668135712
    August 26, 2025

  • star rating  Paul was our guide. We had the best time. He was fun, informative and very likeable. It's great to see someone doing what they love. I would highly recommend this... read more

    avatar thumb Naomipineappletours
    August 19, 2025

Travel along a piece of New Zealand’s rich rail history and experience the natural beauty and adventure from the comfort of our rail-cart

Awakeri Rail Adventures offers three types of trips.

The first and most popular trip is the “Bush Walk & Snack Run.” It covers 20 km of track and includes a guided short bush walk, a stop for a relaxing track-side snack and hot drink, as well as the opportunity to feed the chickens, ducks, and geese. This trip takes 2.5 to 3 hours and departs twice daily.

The second is the “Express Trip.” It also covers the same 20 km of track, with one stop en route for the track-side snack and hot drink.

The third trip is the “Chicken Run.” Covering 10 km of track, it’s ideal for kids under 5 years old. Along the way, feed the chickens, explore an old railway hut, and meet “Pushy,” the 75-year-old bulldozer.

CHICKEN RUN & EXPRESS RUN  ARE BY ARRANGEMENT ONLY BY CALLING – 08005374724
OTHER TRIPS CAN BE BOOKED ON LINE (OR CALL US)  

Conveniently located just down the road from Awakeri Hot Springs

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