Ultimate self-drive rail car journey
4.4 / 5 · 106 traveler reviews
Ride in your own self-drive RailCruiser through Rotorua’s hidden forest — a gentle adventure on a historic railway line brought back to life.” Travel along scenic railway tracks offering a unique perspective of Rotorua’s breathtaking landscapes, 1000 year old virgin native forests, rolling farmland and views over Lake Rotorua. With space for up to four passengers, these petrol-electric rail cars provide comfortable seating and clear views through waterproof sides, allowing you to savor the sights as you cruise at a leisurely 20km/h. Listen to the audio tour and delve into the rich history of New Zealand’s railways while enjoying stunning views of Lake Rotorua and Mount Tarawera. This innovative experience is perfect for families and adventurers alike, making it a must-do when in Rotorua.
Your experience
Stop 1
The Rotorua Railcruising Station is your starting point for your journey up the rails. After a short safety briefing your guide will settle you into your rail car and set you up the track. On the way you will see rolling farmlands, 1000 year old native forests, views over Lake Rotorua.
Stop 2
Passing through the site of the now gone Tarukenga Station, you can see to your side Toi te Whenua, a 5.5 m high aluminium sculpture positioned alongside the road to greet travelers as they enter Rotorua from the Waikato side.
Stop 3
A little further on, on the right hand side of the track is the Tarukenga Marae. This Marae is a Te Arawa marae located just outside Rotorua, and closely tied to Ngāti Te Ngākau and Ngāti Tura hapū of the Te Ure o Uenukukōpako iwi. Its wharenui (meeting house) is named Te Ngākau, and it serves as a cultural, spiritual, and community hub for the local people
Stop 4
Ohokeriki or Dansey Road Scenic Reserve is a 468-hectare native forest west of Ngongotahā, Rotorua, known for its ancient rimu and tawa trees, rich biodiversity, and conservation efforts. The railway drives through this native forest that is 1000s of years old.
Stop 5
Mamaku Railcruising Station stands on the site of the original Mamaku Rail station and is your turn around point, or end of your journey. Here you will disembark and able to go inside the beautiful log cabin for a hot drink. You can watch a video on the history of Railcruising, or browse through historical and local information. Bathroom facilities are also available here.
What’s included
- Audio Guide
- Water
- Blankets are available for the duration of the trip. Please bring warm clothes as weather can cool.
- Tea and coffee
- Your own railcar/s for your trip. Each car takes up to 4 people.
Meeting and pickup
Ngongotaha RailCruising Station is located 10 minutes drive north of Rotorua
Before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Pet friendly
- Baby changing Station at Mamaku Station
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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