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 relaxing and fun way to spend the day. Trip starts with the wonderful guide, Paul, giving a humorous safety brief and then off on the track for a unique... read more

    avatar thumb 760cathrinev
    February 22, 2025

  • star rating  Querky trip through countryside in little self-drive (easy) rail cars + a short interesting bush walk with Morning Tea, lead by competent & informative owner.

    avatar thumb SMILYEXPLORER
    May 7, 2019

  • star rating  Highly Recommended - Paul's operation is a gem! The family and friends enjoyed the trip. Had some good laughs and learnt a bit more about the area and rich history. ... read more

    Nikki v
    March 9, 2025

  • star rating  Great family fun! We did the chicken run which was perfect for our young family.
    Paul is a great conductor who brings a quirky fun sense of humor to the... read more

    avatar thumb Traveler55358501067
    July 2, 2025

  • star rating  Rail fun, facilities lacking - Was fun running the rail cars. Really enjoyed listening to Ben’s talk about the trees and walk through the bush was great. Was disappointed that when we stopped for bbq... read more

    Vacation52599592661
    February 23, 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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