Important travel update regarding the Northern Explorer train

 

We wish to inform our valued passengers of an important update for those planning to travel on the Northern Explorer train during the upcoming scheduled network upgrade periods.

Affected Dates:

15 January 2025 to 27 January 2025

12 April 2025 to 28 April 2025

 

Impact on Travel: During these periods, the tracks between Auckland Strand Railway Station and Hamilton will be closed for train travel due to essential upgrade work to prepare for the City Rail Link's opening in 2026.

From Auckland to Hamilton: Passengers will transfer by bus from Auckland Strand or Papakura Station to Hamilton Station.

From Hamilton to Auckland: Passengers will transfer by bus from Hamilton Station to either Papakura or Auckland Strand Station.

 

Important Update for All Bookings Until 27 January 2025:

All bookings made up to and including 27 January 2025 (both old and new) will automatically receive a replacement bus service for the affected section of the route.

For April 2025 travel, we are currently accepting bookings to and from Hamilton only, and passengers should consider alternative transport to and from Auckland.

 

Scenic Routes Unaffected: 
Rest assured, you will not miss a significant portion of the scenic route, as the most picturesque parts of the journey are located south of Hamilton. The train journey between Hamilton and Wellington will operate as usual, allowing you to experience the breathtaking landscapes and highlights that make this journey unforgettable.

 

Alternative Travel Options: For travelers not included in the transfer bus:

Consider arranging private transportation between Auckland and Hamilton.

Local bus or coach services may be available as an alternative.

If you need assistance identifying suitable travel options, don't hesitate to get in touch with our New Zealand Travel Team for guidance.

 

Flexibility for Travelers: To accommodate your needs, we offer the following options:

Reschedule your travel to a future date.

Request a 100% refund if you prefer not to travel.

 

We apologize for any inconvenience caused by this disruption and remain committed to providing as much assistance as possible.

For further inquiries or assistance with your travel plans, please contact our New Zealand Travel Team.

Our friendly New Zealand Travel Team is available from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm (New Zealand Time) Monday - Sunday, excluding public holidays.

For assistance and reservations during our opening hours contact our New Zealand Travel Team by email or phone.  To cancel a reservation, please email us at info@newzealandtravelteam.com before 72hrs or 3 days from the travel date.

Phone
You can call one of our English-speaking Consultants at +64 7 575 5049

Current New Zealand time: 

Within New Zealand:
Reservations only with payment -           0800-143-669

Travel planning and all other inquiries - +64 7 575 5049

Outside New Zealand: 
+61 1800 359 729      Australia Toll-free

+1   855 413 3019    USA Toll-free
+1   866 554 0304    Canada Toll-free
+44 800 0148106     United Kingdom Toll-free

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New Zealand Travel Rail Pass

ScenicRailPass

New Zealand Travel Scenic Passes are available for travel on all 3 train services and ferry travel
Valid for travel to 31 March 2025

If you‘re not sure when you’d like to travel, the Freedom Pass is for you. A New Zealand Travel Team Rail Pass is a flexible ‘Book As You Go’ travel pass that allows you to travel on New Zealand’s 3 long-distance passenger train services between Auckland and Wellington, Picton to Christchurch, Christchurch to Greymouth and ferry sailing/s between the North and South Islands by purchasing the number of ‘Travel’ days you want to use and travel whenever it suits, for up to 2 months from the date of your first journey.

New Zealand Travel Scenic Pass is suited for independent travellers, families or small groups, who are travelling together on the same routes, to the same destinations.

Reservations for train & ferry services are compulsory and should be made as soon as possible to avoid disappointment and no later than 72 Hours prior to the travel date to secure you a seat.  Reservations are subject to availability and can be made by contacting our New Zealand Travel Team.

Please note each traveller needs his or her own pass.

Pass Type Adult Child
3 Days in 1 Month New Zealand Travel Rail Pass NZ$925.00 NZ$628.00 Buy Now
4 Days in 1 Month New Zealand Travel Rail Pass NZ$1089.00 NZ$758.00 Buy Now
5 Days in 1 Month New Zealand Travel Rail Pass NZ$1199.00 NZ$819.00 Buy Now
6 Days in 1 Month New Zealand Travel Rail Pass NZ$1289.00 NZ$969.00 Buy Now
7 Days in 2 Months New Zealand Travel Rail Pass NZ$1398.00 NZ$1035.00 Buy Now

New Zealand Travel Fixed Rail Pass - Low Season

ScenicRailPass

Low Season Fares are valid on 2 trains Northern Explorer, TranzAlpine and a one-way ferry sailing between the North and South Islands
Travel must be commenced and completed between 01 May 2023 and 20 September 2025

Choose a fixed-term pass for 7, 14, or 21 days and travel on two long-distance scenic trains and ferry sailing/s between the North and South Islands. This is perfect if you want to explore over 1 week, and want to be able to use the train on any of these days. Fixed-term pass travel days commence from the start date specified when purchasing, and you can book your trips via email or by phoning us.

Reservations for train & ferry services are compulsory and should be made as soon as possible to avoid disappointment and no later than 72 Hours prior to the travel date to secure you a seat.  Reservations are subject to availability and can be made by contacting our New Zealand Travel Team. 

Reservations are subject to availability and can be made by contacting our New Zealand Travel Team.

Please note each traveler needs his or her own pass.

 

Pass Type Adult Child
7 Day New Zealand Travel Fixed Rail Pass - Low Season NZ$835.00 NZ$615.00 Buy Now
14 Day Low Season Pass NZ$935.00 NZ$769.00 Buy Now
21 Day Low Season Pass NZ$1025.00 NZ$849.00 Buy Now