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  From the moment you arrive until the moment you leave the guide will keep you and the kids entertained. Awakeri rail is an activity for all ages and all strengths... read more

    L1533QNkyles
    October 9, 2019

  • star rating  Small train journeys in heartland New Zealand - The train was unique - whereby we had simple instructions to operate the individual carriages - and then ‘drive’ the car/train independently. It was such fun! Especially when we went... read more

    Pnolover
    June 30, 2024

  • star rating  Thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Did the Bush walk trip 2.5 hours. Paul was very entertaining and a wealth of knowledge.

    avatar thumb D8289QEmichaela
    September 8, 2023

  • star rating  What a great little adventure. Wonderful guide with great scenery a a pace that allows you to enjoy it. Thank you Paul.

    Gypsyiews
    September 15, 2019

  • star rating  Unforgettable Awakeri Rail Adventure with the Exceptional Paul! - During our guided tour through The White Pine Bush, Paul made us a cuppa and we had the opportunity to sign his 'guestbook'. Unfortunately, the pen Paul gave me --... read more

    Travel51310840625
    January 16, 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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