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  The actual rail cart experience was good, but the driver was misogynistic and very non- PC, not reading his group well at all. It was not family friendly ( with... read more

    avatar thumb Heather H
    March 9, 2025

  • star rating  Wholesome outdoor kiwiana fun! - Kiwiana guiding and hospitality at its best!

    Small tourism business owner Paul is a great host with a clear passion for rail and a great sense of humour.... read more

    esmeraldah881
    June 5, 2024

  • star rating  We had a great time. Many laughs and fun to drive. Enjoyed the bush walk and gumboot fence. Highly recommend this trip any weather.

    avatar thumb MURRAY B
    February 17, 2025

  • star rating  Family of 5 ages 13 to 57, absolutely loved it. Highly recommend without a doubt. Paul is an excellent host and made the day a very memorable experience.

    avatar thumb Passenger36929819851
    December 18, 2024

  • star rating  An absolute MUST DO Kiwi tour - This is a MUST DO!
    Paul is passionate about what he does and this tour allows you to slow down and enjoy the beautiful countryside of New Zealand.funny commentary, stunning... read more

    121nancyl
    November 22, 2023

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

Book Now