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.

  • star rating  Absolutely must do in Awakeri  - What an amazing hidden gem in Awakeri!!! I couldn't recommend this journey enough to everyone. We had the absolute pleasure of joining Paul, our guide for an awesome 3hr trip,... read more

    Paula T
    October 4, 2023
  • 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  Christmas train fun! - We were given this trip as a Christmas present from family and what a fabulous experience it was. Paul was great, his stories were very funny and he engaged the... read more

    Lesley T
    December 28, 2023
  • star rating  We had a great family outing!! My family of 10, from 3 months to 72 years of age had a wonderful day. We had a couple of activities,... read more

    avatar thumb Vivien A
    March 30, 2025
  • star rating  A Must Do Experience! - We had a FANTASTIC time at the Awakeri Railway! Myself and 3 others (including our elderly grandma) were all super impressed by the sense of humour & knowledge of our... read more

    Rachel P
    March 13, 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 & 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 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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