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  A delightful Kiwi experience - Highly recommend! - Highly recommend this delightful, fun, quirky activity - and great for the family too! Whereas other railtrails we have done, comprise only of a trip, Paul was hands on... read more

    Susan_from_Auckland
    April 15, 2025

  • star rating  Fantastic trip with 4 young grandchildren. We did the “Chicken Run” and Paul made it so much fun for the kids. Highly recommend, and look forward to doing a longer... read more

    avatar thumb Paula A
    January 28, 2025

  • star rating  Always wanted to do this, and it did not disappoint!! Thank you so much for an awesome experience, loved the banter and the kids had a blast!! Spiderman will... read more

    avatar thumb Paradise45895065853
    January 5, 2025

  • star rating  Part comedy, with some spooky elements and history thrown in for balance. Paul is quite a character, it’s a very unique experience. I find the whole back story and thought... read more

    avatar thumb Connector09634221944
    January 16, 2025

  • star rating  Wonderful time had by all - Fun trip, very enjoyable, many surprises along the way. Great guide too. Very entertaining. We loved the bush walk and cuppa too.

    DonnaL159
    March 19, 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 Express Trip is available only during summer months as an 8 a.m. early bird trip.

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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