- Scenic class experience
- Scenic plus experience
- Dedicated Scenic Plus hosts
Scenic train
Northern Explorer train
Wellington Auckland
Journey between Auckland and Wellington on an unforgettable rail adventure through the heart of New Zealand's North Island. From rolling farmland and volcanic landscapes to dramatic river gorges and rugged coastlines, every stretch of the Northern Explorer reveals something new.
Travel in either direction and experience the full journey or hop on for the section that suits your travel plans, with stops including Hamilton, Waimarino National Park, Ohakune, Palmerston North and Wellington.
Timetable
Northern Explorer Auckland to Wellington trains depart southbound on Monday, Thursday and Saturday.
Northern Explorer Wellington to Auckland trains depart northbound on Friday, Sunday, and Wednesday.
Northern Explorer does not run between 25 December 2026 through to the 11th January 2027.
Discover the onboard experience
Learn more about our
Scenic comfort.
At the heart of our Scenic experiences, you'll find spacious carriages, panoramic windows and skylights. With tables set for four, along your journey you'll have the chance to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. As you traverse New Zealand's rugged terrain, our state-of-the-art premium carriage guarantees a smooth and comfortable adventure.
Upgrade to our Scenic Plus experience.
Scenic Plus takes our travel experience to a new level, providing a full-sensory exploration of New Zealand. It combines our award-winning Scenic carriages' panoramic viewing experience with storytelling and an inclusive dining menu from the regions you pass through, paired with local wines.
Let us entertain you.
Naturally engaging, our Scenic Plus hosts will ensure you are superbly catered for throughout the journey. From topping up your drink to explaining the origins of the grapes, pointing out unmissable landmarks to sharing the stories of our lands, our hosts will ensure you leave fulfilled in every sense. With our Scenic Plus experience, our hosts will ensure you feel completely relaxed and comfortable from the moment you arrive.
- Open air viewing carriages
- Scenic cafe
- Onboard infotainment and the Great Journeys New Zealand app
Open-air viewing carriages
Step outside into the fresh air and take in uninterrupted panoramic views. The open-air viewing carriage offers a unique perspective, making it easy to capture unforgettable photos and immerse yourself in New Zealand's spectacular landscapes.
Scenic Café
Enjoy a selection of light meals, snacks, hot and cold drinks, and local favourites from the onboard Scenic Café. It's the perfect place to relax and savour the journey while the scenery unfolds outside.
Onboard Infotainment & the Great Journeys New Zealand App
Enhance your journey with the Great Journeys New Zealand app. Access GPS-triggered commentary, fascinating stories, points of interest, maps and travel information, all designed to help you discover more as you travel through New Zealand.
Upgrade to our Scenic Plus experience
Discover the flavours of the North Island aboard the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus experience, with a seasonal menu inspired by the regions and fresh local ingredients along the journey.
Scenic Plus dining
Enjoy a taste of New Zealand aboard the Northern Explorer, with a seasonal menu showcasing fresh local produce.
Start the day with dishes such as vanilla chia pudding or a warm vegetable frittata, followed by regionally inspired meals, local cheeses paired with New Zealand wine, and indulgent desserts.
From light bites to hearty mains, every dish is designed to complement the spectacular North Island scenery unfolding outside your window.
Scenic vs Scenic Plus
Our menu
Our menu is subject to seasonal change. Please advise us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
View our winter menu
Find our Northern Explorer railway stations
View our Northern Explorer station page to find out more about each of our stations.
Get directions, parking information, and check-in requirements for each of our Northern Explorer Railway Stations, from Auckland to Wellington.
Carbon Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate how much you could reduce your carbon emissions by travelling on the Northern Explorer.
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