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  We had a fun trip today with Paul as our guide. The carts were easy to operate and the stops were interesting and informative. We enjoyed the chooks... read more

    avatar thumb Alison K
    October 21, 2025
  • star rating  Fun morning with Awakeri Rail Adventures, lots of laughs and things to see and do along the way. Even our two teenage sons had fun! Recommend as a fun way... read more

    alisoncM6668MA
    January 18, 2020
  • star rating  Absolute blast! - What a fantastic rail ride! Paul is an absolute blast great host super funny. We had the best time far exceeded our expectations! Thanks so much Paul will be telling... read more

    GrandTour56193678832
    April 22, 2025
  • star rating  My husband and I absolutely loved this rail experience. Paul was an awesome guide who was very knowledgeable on the Awakeri area, bush and pest trapping and his sense of... read more

    fluteytootie
    January 2, 2020
  • star rating  We were pleasantly surprised on our 'chill out', Saturday morning trip where we were the party crashers on a large family birthday tour. Whilst Paul (the owner/operator loves what he... read more

    avatar thumb OnAir12067008570
    August 17, 2024

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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