Service Announcement: Northern Explorer Bus Replacements – Auckland to Hamilton/ Hamilton to Auckland

We wish to inform our valued passengers of an upcoming service change on the Northern Explorer train due to scheduled network maintenance.

Affected Dates:

  • 27 June – 12 July 2025

  • 19 – 30 September 2025

  • 3 – 4 October 2025

Impact on Travel:
During these dates, the tracks between Auckland Strand Railway Station and Hamilton will be closed due to essential rail maintenance.

  • 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 Papakura or Auckland Strand Station.


Scenic Routes Unaffected:
Rest assured, you will not miss a significant portion of the scenic route. The most picturesque parts of the journey are located south of Hamilton, and the train journey between Hamilton and Wellington will operate as usual.


Flexibility for Travelers:
To accommodate your plans, you may:

  • Reschedule your travel to a different date.

  • Request a 100% refund if you prefer not to travel during this period.


We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused by this disruption and remain committed to providing a safe and comfortable journey.


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
 
Show Notification Close Notification
  • ScenicRailPass
View Cart (0)

Passes

3 Days in 1 Month New Zealand Travel Rail Pass

3 Days in 1 Month New Zealand Travel Rail Pass

  • 3 Days in 1 Month Pass is valid for unlimited train and ferry travel over 3 flexible days during a 1-month period.

  • New Zealand Travel Rail Pass is valid for travel on all 3 train services and ferry travel.

  • Scenic Rail Pass can be used to travel north to south or south to north.

  • Scenic Rail Pass is suited for independent travelers, families, or small groups, who are traveling together on the same routes, to the same destinations.

  • Reservations for train, bus/coach & 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.

  • Reservations can be made by contacting the New Zealand Travel Team

  • RailBus Scenic Passes are valid for travel until 30 June 2025

  • All prices are per person as each traveler needs his or her own pass

  •  

Travel Itineraries
Fare Type
Adult
Child
Pass Validity
Action
Rail Pass(3 Days in 1 Month New Zealand Travel Rail Pass)
NZ$925.00
NZ$628.00
25 Sep 2022 to 30 Jun 2025