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 Rail-ly Awesome Time - Fantastic outing for the family. So much to see along the ride and so fun to drive a little rail car. Host is fantastic, great with kids.

    Sherpa22085054391
    January 11, 2025

  • star rating  Today, we had a wonderful afternoon at the Chicken Run with my two boys and friends.
    Paul was exceptional in engaging with the children, making the experience both interactive... read more

    avatar thumb Stephanie O
    March 5, 2025

  • star rating  Enjoyable Experience - Thoroughly enjoyed our Awakeri Rail trip. The weather wasn't too convivial, however the rail carts are well designed to keep you dry. Our host Paul, we found to be... read more

    Sharon M
    December 19, 2025

  • star rating  Awesome time, guide was awesome and knowledgeable and was very fun. The carts were fun to drive. Amazing views of the countryside. Highly recommend

    avatar thumb DanikaTeMo
    June 19, 2025

  • star rating  What a fantastic way to spend a day - Started off getting tickets for Husband's 75th Birthday. Just loved the whole experience. Paul is an excellent host, and his commentary was clear and informative. Second trip, with overseas guests,... read more

    KathM254
    December 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 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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