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.

Tours Contact Us

  • star rating  Highly recommended for everyone - A fantastic 2.5hour outing. We thoroughly enjoyed the adventure and Paul's entertaining tales and personal touch. Great fun, lovely scenary and easy to drive rail carts.

    Traveler60993700581
    August 24, 2024

  • star rating  Went on the morning trip and joined a bunch of locals. Really enjoyed the scenery, the professionalism of our guide and the laid back atmosphere. It’s a... read more

    avatar thumb EuanK19
    September 27, 2024

  • star rating  Great afternoon of fun...
    We got to ride on the rails, bush walk, see the gum boot fence.
    We even fed the chooks not to mention the great scenery... read more

    avatar thumb Janice W
    February 16, 2025

  • star rating  Our railway tour. - The knowledge of our guide Paul on our bush walk. His stories about the fauna, also the history of the railway.

    68darrylm
    August 21, 2023

  • star rating  Perfection! - Outstanding in every way. Great for anyone, local or tourist, young or old. Paul is amazing with his customers, very thorough with safety and a great sense... read more

    blueeyedfem
    March 14, 2024

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

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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 Express Trip is available only during summer months as an 8 a.m. early bird trip.

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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