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.

  • star rating  Fun even in the rain - This was such a fun quirky adventure. The weather was less than ideal but it was such fun! Loved the views, driving the cart on the rail and learning about... read more

    Snoosin75
    March 10, 2024
  • star rating  Fabulous day out - Fabulous trip today. Well worth it, kids loved it as did we. Paul is a fabulous guide, very informative and also great sense of humour. Highly recommend.

    Familyfun1012
    February 6, 2023
  • star rating  A fun and no stress activity to end our holiday. The tweens (ever hard to please) enjoyed it which says alot. Informative bush walk, fun ride, great health and... read more

    MedKitOwner
    January 24, 2020
  • star rating  On arrival paid $70 each having a discount of $20 each. Were met by a man who attempted to be humorous, but was not. Has a hopeless Health and Safety... read more

    Edgewood48
    February 21, 2020
  • star rating  Awakeri Rail - Such a fun experience shared with my grandsons & neice.A beautiful summer day.
    Enjoyed the commentary & knowledge sharing of the district. Would definitely recommend this to... read more

    Camper35743922953
    January 12, 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 and snack run 9am-12:30pm & 1pm-4.30pm. 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 TWILIGHT TRAIN IS AN EVENING TRIP OPERATING IN THE SUMMER MONTHS ONLY, FOR VISITORS WHO HAVE OTHER ACTIVITIES EARLIER IN THE DAY. A FANTASTIC TRIP ON A SUMMERS EVENING. IT STARTS AT 5.30 PM AND CONCLUDES AT ABOUT 9PM .   (IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR SMALL  CHILDREN.) FARES ARE THE SAME AS THE BUSH WALK AND SNACK RUN.

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 & TWILIGHT TRAIN  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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