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  We all had a great time Paul was a fantastic host. Some nice activities along the way, with a bit of local history, some laughs and well timed stops. Good... read more

    avatar thumb Matt6000
    May 18, 2019
  • star rating  From the moment you arrive until the moment you leave the guide will keep you and the kids entertained. Awakeri rail is an activity for all ages and all strengths... read more

    L1533QNkyles
    October 9, 2019
  • star rating  Was an awesome trip, lots of knowledge and comedy, meeting up with 'animal friends' along the way. Paul was very informative and entertaining. Highly recommended. 5 stars.

    avatar thumb Miranda Cross S... T
    August 15, 2024
  • star rating  Fantastic Experience and fun  - What a fun time. Went with two older kids and what a laugh. Great way to spend time together. Paul was full of fun, full of know and made the... read more

    Margi C
    January 2, 2024
  • star rating  Lots of laughs and lots of fun - a must do for Kiwis and overseas visitors. - We had the pleasure of doing the rail adventure in Jan 2023. We made the journey across from Hamilton after purchasing the tickets at the Caravan Show in 2022. ... read more

    Sharnyn H
    January 13, 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 four types of trip. The first is an “Express Run” where you will drive over 20km of track, with one stop enroute. The Express Run takes approx 2 hours.

The second option is the “Bush Walk / Snack Run” where you will be guided on a bush walk, stop for a relaxing track side snack and other activities and still drive over the 20km of track. This trip will take approx 2.5 hours.

The third option is the “Bush Walk Run” where you travel 12km of track – enjoy a guided bush walk – wraps up in about 1.5 hours.

The fourth option is the Chicken run – travel 8 km of track and help feed the chickens and other birds (this one is ideal for the under fives).

CHICKEN RUN & BUSH WALK RUN ARE BY ARRANGEMENT ONLY.

Conveniently located just down the road from Awakeri Hot Springs

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