Upcoming Journeys
Halloween Steam
Saturday October 31
Kick off Halloween in unforgettable style aboard the Halloween Steam Express, a special series of steam shuttles running exclusively between Wellington and Plimmerton. This is your chance to climb aboard a genuine Mainline Steam locomotive and enjoy a fun, atmospheric outing along the shores of Porirua Harbour — complete with costumes, treats, coastal scenery, and the magic of heritage rail.
Raurimu Thunder
Saturday November 14
Raurimu Thunder puts you trackside and onboard as our heavy heritage steam locomotive charges into the rugged heart of the North Island to take on the legendary Raurimu Spiral. This is a full day, high horsepower assault on a brutal mountain grade. No filters, no computer assists—just pure, unfiltered vintage engineering working at the absolute limit.
Tui Express
Sunday December 06
Our tracks lead straight to Mangatainoka Station. Upon arrival, step off the platform and stretch your legs with a 15-minute walk to the world-famous Tui Brewery, or hop directly onto one of our dedicated transfer buses waiting for your group.
Once at the brewery, relax and enjoy the iconic historic grounds. To celebrate the festive season, your ticket includes a delicious, hearty BBQ lunch and a complimentary Tui beverage (or non-alcoholic alternative) to toast to a successful year!
Viaduct Spectacular
January 2027
Looking for the ultimate summer school holiday memory? The Viaduct Spectacular is back for a magnificent full-day rail adventure crafted for families, couples, and rail enthusiasts alike. Escape the summer heat in our premium, modern carriages and experience the grand scale of New Zealand’s legendary North Island Main Trunk line.
Ruapehu Mountaineer
February 2027
Celebrate Valentine’s weekend with the raw power of mainline steam on New Zealand’s ultimate long‑distance rail adventure. The Ruapehu Mountaineer delivers an immersive, full day flagship experience, making it a unique day trip for couples, families and rail enthusiasts alike.
Your ticket includes your return coach transfers from Ohakune to Whakapapa and Sky Waka Gondola Pass.
At Whakapapa you will have free time to explore the mountain in your own time. Ride the Sky Waka gondola to Knoll Ridge Chalet for a memorable lunch with panoramic alpine views. You can wander the volcanic walking tracks, capture photos of the rugged peaks or simply enjoy the clear mountain air. In the afternoon, your coach will return you to National Park Station where the train will be waiting for the evening journey home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime.
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Our heritage mainline carriages were built in an earlier era and, although beautifully restored, they do have more limited access than modern commuter trains. Boarding involves steps, and mobility assistance may be required. If you have any accessibility concerns, please contact us at bookings@mainlinesteam.co.nz or 04 233 8131.
Pets are not permitted onboard. Certified disability assist dogs are welcome in accordance with New Zealand legislation—please advise us at the time of booking if you will be travelling with an assist dog.
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All carriages have toilets located at the end of each carriage.
A café carriage is available on most excursions, offering tea, coffee, and a selection of light snacks such as pies, sandwiches, and cakes. Availability may vary depending on the journey. You are welcome to bring your own snacks and non‑alcoholic beverages.
The train is licensed. A small selection of beer and wine is available for purchase onboard. Alcohol brought onboard is not permitted, and any alcohol purchased onboard must be consumed onboard.
EFTPOS is available for onboard purchases.
An open‑air viewing carriage is available for those wishing to enjoy the sights and sounds of mainline steam. Children must be supervised at all times while using this carriage.
All carriages are climate‑controlled with heating and air‑conditioning.
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All online bookings are processed through FareHarbor, our secure booking partner. Their platform adds a small booking fee at checkout. This fee is set and collected by FareHarbor, and we do not control, receive, or have visibility of it in our own accounting.
Your ticket price remains exactly as advertised on our website. Any additional fee shown at checkout is a FareHarbor platform charge, separate from the fare you pay to Mainline Steam.
If you have any questions about how the fee appears during booking, we’re happy to help.
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Bookings are essential for all excursions, and many trips sell out well in advance. All bookings must be paid for at the time of reservation.
Children under two may travel free if seated on your lap and not occupying a seat. However, all seats face a table, which can make holding a child uncomfortable over the course of the journey.
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Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the advertised departure time. Due to tight schedules, the train cannot wait for late‑arriving passengers. No refunds are available for missed departures, so we encourage allowing plenty of travel time.
Most stations offer free parking. Please check local signage on arrival.
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The train operates in all weather. If you plan to spend time in the open‑air viewing carriage, please dress appropriately for the conditions.