Northern Explorer

Great Journeys New Zealand
New Zealand
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The Journey

Navigate from Auckland Strand to Wellington across a span of 681km.

Scenery Highlights
  • Raurimu Spiral
  • Mt Ruapehu & Tongariro
  • Kapiti Coast
Quick Facts
  • Duration

    11 hours

  • Distance

    681 km

  • Est. Price

    NZD 269–549 per person (Scenic/Scenic Plus one-way)

Official Booking Provider
Classes & Accommodations

Meals: Meals not included; onboard cafe available

Ensuite: No

Meals: Regional Menu & Wine Included

Ensuite: No

Engine / Locomotive

GE Power or locomotive-hauled

Track Gauge

1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in) Cape gauge

Braking Technology

Air brakes

Route Engineering Challenges

  • Raurimu Spiral – 180-degree loop conquering 132m elevation gain

  • Crossing volcanic plateau near Tongariro National Park

  • Navigating steep coastal sections approaching Wellington

Carriages

Purpose-built panoramic sightseeing carriages with open-air viewing deck

Electrification

Diesel-hauled (not electrified)

Maximum Speed

100 km/h

Quick Facts
  • Duration

    11 hours

  • Distance

    681 km

  • Est. Price

    NZD 269–549 per person (Scenic/Scenic Plus one-way)

Official Booking Provider