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.

  • star rating  After trialling this experience a couple of months earlier with a view to arranging a possible group booking for a group of seniors, I was convinced this would make an... read more

    avatar thumb Z9146YCrossb
    April 7, 2025
  • star rating  We thoroughly enjoyed our adventure with Paul. He was loads of fun and very informative. Our bush billie tea at the end of the line was delicious. A worth... read more

    avatar thumb Diane W
    May 20, 2025
  • star rating  The best afternoon we have had for ages! - Honestly this is just so much fun, well worth the time and money. Paul and Denise are such characters, enjoyed their funny stories. Felt like we left as friends. Fabulous... read more

    Explore13122402121
    October 18, 2025
  • star rating  A fun family day. - Awakeri rail adventure is a fun unique experience. We took a 4 year old and a 11 year old and they loved the journey. Highlights were feeding the bird... read more

    Seaside07824690429
    September 27, 2023
  • star rating  Interesting commentary with humourous anecdotes. A lot of work has gone into this attraction. Remember to book ahead to avoid disappointment.

    avatar thumb pulhamfamily
    January 23, 2019

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 & Snack Run.” 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 second is the “Express Trip.” It also covers the same 20 km of track, with one stop en route for the track-side snack and hot drink.

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 & EXPRESS RUN  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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