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  We absolutely loved this rail tour. We had sore cheeks from laughing at Paul’s jokes. He was bloody fantastic! The Russian doll was so funny. However, If you find it... read more

    avatar thumb NorthStar36232247288
    May 31, 2025

  • star rating  We did the railcart trip including the gentle bush walk. Was fabulous with a few surprises along the way. Paul is made for the job with... read more

    avatar thumb 433carolyn
    March 16, 2019

  • 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  Interesting and unusual. - A fun trip on a rail cart over 10km of railtrack and back. Feed the chickens, go on a bush walk and take tea by the track. Paul is an... read more

    SteveandLynn
    June 5, 2024

  • star rating  Knowledgeable and relaxing - This is the most relax railway experience I ever had ! Plus the coffee is nice.

    Paul is our best train leader and our group laugh a lot!... read more

    XIAO X
    January 26, 2023

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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