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  Really enjoyable trip, can't recommend it enough. The trip took around 2 1/2 hours but never dragged. We particularly loved the bush walk - the bird song... read more

    avatar thumb JediJan
    March 24, 2025
  • star rating  Paul is amazing he is the owner and nothing better than owner operated his knowledge is outstanding on the area. It is fun and very safe awsome for families with... read more

    avatar thumb Chantal K
    August 25, 2024
  • star rating  Awesome time, guide was awesome and knowledgeable and was very fun. The carts were fun to drive. Amazing views of the countryside. Highly recommend

    avatar thumb DanikaTeMo
    June 19, 2025
  • star rating  Great Trip Amazing Guide - Paul our guide and operator of this adventure is so customer focused. 👍🏼👍🏼

    We purchased tickets pre COVID and never got the chance to do this trip and like... read more

    camerona648
    December 17, 2024
  • star rating  Really enjoyed this, awesome commentator!
    Bush walk was lovely and the cuppa tea.

    Privet trees can be quite strong along the track and irritate people with hayfever but not... read more

    avatar thumb Road21696228984
    January 11, 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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