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  Fun. Fact and laughter - Absolutely brilliant. Not just a rail trip but an experience. Fun. Laughter and facts.
    Thoroughly recommend

    Thank you Paul

    Carol D
    November 22, 2025

  • star rating  Xmas work do - Just amazing! Definitely a must do! Paul was an amazing guide/host, kept us informed along the way also enjoyed his sense of humor, great thing to do with kids also,... read more

    Navigate21697885244
    December 6, 2024

  • star rating  This was our first visit to Whakatane & it was specifically to go to Awakeri rail adventure. we took our 11 year old grand daughter. the trip was very... read more

    avatar thumb pinklady1963
    March 31, 2019

  • star rating  We absolutely loved this rail tour. We had sore cheeks from laughing at Paul’s jokes. He was bloody fantastic! The Russian doll was so funny. However, If you find it... read more

    avatar thumb NorthStar36232247288
    May 31, 2025

  • star rating  This was Such an enjoyable excursion. Tour guide Paul over delivered with his colourful personality, extensive historical knowledge and ensured we were well looked after in every way before during... read more

    avatar thumb Suzie W
    April 29, 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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