SOLD OUT | Transcend the ordinary on a journey like no other, to a show like no other. This extraordinary experience brings you two of the greatest stages on Earth.
Departing: Thursday, 24 September 2026
Beginning in Auckland or Hamilton, you'll witness the unique landscapes of the North Island aboard the Northern Explorer WOW Train. A very special service, full of all things WOW, you’ll be treated to a VIP welcome*, special WOW garment appearances with accompanying commentary, a WOW goodie bag and full catering during your journey.
In Wellington, your journey ascends yet further with premium Gold seats at the World of WearableArt (WOW) Show. This is a WOW experience like no other!
*VIP welcome only in Auckland
Highlights
- Gold ticket to the 2026 World of WearableArt (WOW) Show on Friday, 25 September
- A unique VIP-style Northern Explorer WOW Train experience to Wellington
- Onboard WOW garment appearances
- WOW goodie bag
- Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea on the train
- 2-nights stay in Wellington with breakfast at a 4 star hotel
- Return flight with Air New Zealand
Garment credit for top image: Boobie Trap, Ashley Scott, Shelley Scott & Holly Neilson, NZ
You'll love this break
If you are looking for the ultimate WOW Show experience, then this is the ticket!
Indulge your senses with a unique WOW Train experience through the volcanic heart of the North Island on your way to our stunning capital, Wellington. There, you will continue your journey into the extraordinary with a Gold ticket to see the 2026 World of WearableArt Show.
This magical 3-day experience is set to be one of the greatest journeys of all time!
Inclusions
- Exclusive WOW Train journey on the Northern Explorer departing Thursday, 24 September (where everyone will be going to WOW in Wellington!)
- A Gold ticket for the WOW Show performance on Friday, 25 September
- A WOW Show Programme
- WOW garment appearances on the train journey with accompanying commentary
- A WOW goodie bag
- Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea aboard the train
- 2-nights stay at a four star hotel including breakfast
- Hotel transfer
- Return flight with Air New Zealand
- $2199.00NZD per person, twin share
Garment Credit: Our Lady of the Dryer Duct, Grandy C, Canada
- VIP-style WOW welcome at the Strand Station
- Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea during your journey to Wellington
- WOW garment appearances with an accompanying commentary onboard the Northern Explorer
- A WOW goodie bag for each passenger
- Hotel accommodation
- Hotel transfer
- Breakfast
- Hotel accommodation
- Gold ticket to see the 2026 World of Wearable Art (WOW) Show
- WOW Show Programme
- A Gold ticket for the World of WearableArt Show
- WOW Show Programme
- Breakfast
- Return travel on an Air New Zealand flight
Northern Explorer VIP Train
Your WOW Train experience begins the moment you arrive at the Auckland Strand Railway Station, where you’ll receive a special VIP welcome.
Your day continues with a Northern Explorer journey like no other. Against a backdrop of gorgeous New Zealand landscapes rolling endlessly through our panoramic windows, inside the WOW Train we'll be wowing you with a selection of WOW garment appearances. From your seat, you’ll be treated to an intimate appreciation of wearable art from WOW’s permanent collection accompanied by a commentary sharing interesting insights about the garments showcased.
While you meander through the heart of the North Island and its heavenly volcanic plateau, enjoy the festivities and tasty treats from our one-off exclusive menu.
And as the day flies by, you'll also have plenty of time to enjoy refreshments from our licensed Scenic Café on board the train.
On arrival into Wellington, the evening is yours to enjoy the city's exceptional international cuisine and nightlife after a brief transfer to your chosen hotel.
Inclusions:
Explore the sparkling capital
Enjoy a leisurely morning with options to explore Wellington's Cuba Street for some shopping, delve into New Zealand's stories at Te Papa Museum, or visit the Zealandia Eco-sanctuary to meet rare and endangered native wildlife.
Lunch in Wellington will be a highlight, thanks to the city's abundant bars, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants nestled throughout this charming city.
Don't miss the chance to pick up unique WOW souvenirs at the WOW Hub, open from 11am to 4pm, 90 minutes before and 30 minutes after each performance.
The highlight of your evening is the 2026 World of WearableArt (WOW) Show. Arriving an hour early lets you soak up the exciting pre-show atmosphere. Prepare for an unforgettable night!
Inclusions:
World of WearableArt Show
As evening falls, the lights will go up on New Zealand's single largest theatre production, and you'll be sitting in premium Gold seats to enjoy the spectacle.
Described as part Cirque du Soleil, part Broadway play, and part avant-garde couture show, the World of WearableArt Show is like nothing else on earth. Every night the stage comes alive with incredible works of wearable art, dancers, aerialists, captivating music, and moments that will take your breath away.
With the TSB Arena located conveniently at the heart of Wellington's waterfront, there is no shortage of places to go for refreshments before and after the show if you want to continue into the night.
Inclusions:
Image credit: 2025 World of WearableArt (WOW) Show: RISE, Myths and Legends Section
Farewell
Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Spend some leisurely time exploring the vibrant city of Wellington at your leisure, soaking in its rich array of attractions. For those with morning flights, proceed to the airport to catch your flight back home.
Experience the iconic Wellington Cable Car ride to the scenic Kelburn hills, wander through the verdant Wellington Botanic Garden, indulge in a tea break at the Rose Garden, explore the local history at the Wellington Museum, and delve into the city's artistic scene at the City Gallery in Civic Square. Later, enjoy a leisurely lunch and some retail therapy on the bustling Cuba Street. When the time aligns with your flight schedule, head to the airport to embark on your return journey.
Inclusions
A train like no other!
Was well worth taking the WOW Train, lots of amazing scenery, incredible WOW garments, fabulous goody bag. Bucket list trip and would do it again!
WOW Train experience
Travel amongst the buzz of a train where all passengers on board have one thing in common – they’re off to the WOW Show!
On board the train you'll receive a WOW goodie bag that includes your WOW Show Programme and other special treats. Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea are all included.
Best of all, you will have the unique opportunity to see a few WOW garments up close so you can appreciate the astonishing detail and workmanship that goes into an award-winning wearable art design. An accompanying commentary will share interesting insights about each garment.
If you are looking for a unique experience to go hand-in-hand with the 2026 WOW Show, then it doesn't get better than this!
Images and garment credits; One and Two: Aurealis - Keeper of Infinite Wisdom, Carolyn Gibson, NZ; Three: Knight of Fire, Maria Tsopanaki & Dimitri Mavinis, UK ; Four: Sgàthach the Singed, Fifi Colston, NZ; Five; Six: Cheers to WOW Train passengers, Six; Garment: Le Spectacle!, Erna Van Der Wat and Karl Van Der Wat, NZ; Seven; 2025 WOW Show: RISE; Eight: 2025 WOW Show: RISE, Myths and Legends Section; Nine: 2025 WOW Show: RISE, NEON Section
Journey beyond ordinary
Your indulgent weekend starts in relaxing style, with morning tea served while you glide through the rolling green pastures of Waikato, followed by a spiralling ascent onto the Volcanic Plateau.
Soon the soaring peaks of Ngauruhoe, Tongariro, and Ruapehu will dominate the horizon, while a series of stunning viaducts provide astonishing views.
A steady descent provides yet more outstanding moments, winding around white cliffs of the Rangitikei River gorge. As the sun descends, the Kāpiti Coast will be the final stage before rolling into Wellington.
Indulge in a central stay
Your Wellington getaway is complemented by four star hotels handpicked for their convenience and comfort.
Nestled in the heart of the city and designed for those seeking a weekend of effortless access to the city's treasures. Your perfect urban retreat awaits.
Ready to book?
Click the Book now button at the top of this page to secure your WOW package today.
Alternatively, if you would like to book over the phone or have any questions, then contact our Travel Centre team right now:
0800 872 467