Explore a piece of New Zealand’s rich rail heritage while relaxing in the luxury of a rail-car, which has been cleverly modified to be self-driven along the rail tracks. Enjoy the natural beauty and adventure of New Zealand from the comfort of a rail-car. Our rail cars are completely self-driven, which means you have complete control over your rail vehicle and are free to stop wherever you want to take photographs (or pick up your hat).
Your journey begins in Awakeri, where you’ll travel at a leisurely 25 kilometres per hour with family and friends along a section of historic railway line that has been preserved. Along the way, there are four bridges, various cuts, and bush landscapes to enjoy.
Experience and travel along a portion of New Zealand’s rich rail history from the comfort of your rail-car, enjoy the natural scenic landscapes and adventure.
You will be escorted on a bushwalk and will have the opportunity to unwind with a cup of hot coffee or tea at our trackside bush café.
Our adventure starts from Awakeri traveling at a leisurely 25 kilometers 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.
What to Bring
Kirsty Brown (Local Guide) – 3 months ago
★★★★★
“Fun times on Awakeri Rail Adventures with Paul Francis, a former NZR engine driver who created this adventure using recycled golf carts. Paul is quite a character with plenty of hi-jinx along the way. We especially enjoyed Dead Man’s Curve!”
Warren Blunden (Local Guide) – 3 weeks ago
★★★★★
“Great little trip full of humour, stories, history, and true ‘Kiwiana’. I’d absolutely do it again – just be sure to bring your sense of humour!”
Rebecca Macnamara – 6 months ago
★★★★★
“Such a cool experience for both adults and kids. Paul is awesome and makes the whole trip interesting. It’s perfect for families, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they added a summer arvo beer cruise next time. Thanks, Paul!”
Grant Smith (Local Guide) – 8 months ago
★★★★★
“100% recommend – totally worth your time and money. Paul is a hilarious, safety-conscious guide with cracker jokes. There’s plenty to see and do along the way, making it a perfect gift too!”
Marian Bellamy – 2 weeks ago
★★★★★
“Awesome trip. Paul is a great host with lots of little surprises along the way.”
Logan Bull (Local Guide) – 2 months ago
★★★★★
“Not the most scenic experience, but still a good one – well worth the money. Paul was a great host.”
Christine Derbyshire – 2 weeks ago
★★★★★
“A good trip if you haven’t done this before. However, our group felt that Paul was a bit too familiar with his innuendo jokes and political views—there were a few cringe moments.”
Nina (Local Guide) – 2 months ago
★★★★★
“Real Kiwi experience at its finest. We’re locals, but we thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon adventure with the very capable Paul.”
Roman Gordon (Local Guide) – 11 months ago
★★★★★
“It was a very enjoyable trip, definitely worth doing if you’re in the area. Paul was great, and the stops to feed the chickens and geese added a fun touch.”
Ryan Johnson-Hunt (Local Guide) – 2 months ago
★★★★★
“Great for both kids and adults alike. Our 4-year-old had a blast. Be sure to book well in advance – it’s very popular!”
Cat Vink (Local Guide) – 2 weeks ago
“Fantastic self-drive guide experience – fun for both young and old!”
★★★★★
jan kinloch (Local Guide) – 2 months ago
★★★★★
“A very enjoyable experience riding the rail with Paul. This is our fourth visit with family, and the Kiwi humour makes it so much fun. Thank you!”
Vicky Brewin (Local Guide) – a year ago
★★★★★
“A great morning out for adults and kids alike! Paul was friendly and funny. I definitely recommend this tour if you’re in the area. Tip: bring fly spray as there were quite a few mosquitoes at the bush café.”
Claire Downs (Local Guide) – a year ago
★★★★★
“What a great little trip. Paul was an excellent guide – informative, humorous, and even made great coffee. The kids loved feeding the chickens and enjoying the bush walk.”