Explore the rural heart of New Zealand's North Island on this epic 681km journey between Auckland and Wellington by train.
Our Northern Explorer train connects multi-cultural Auckland with our bustling capital, Wellington. With unique blends of international prestige and local culture, both are excellent places to start or finish your adventure.
See the scenic wonders of Middle Earth, soar over towering viaducts, across the high plains of the volcanic plateau, and beneath three mighty volcanoes.
Book a journey like no other by travelling in either direction from Auckland to Wellington or Wellington to Auckland.
Destinations include:
Auckland • Hamilton • Otorohanga (Waitomo Caves) • Taumarunui • Tongariro National Park • Ohakune • Palmerston North • Wellington
Book your journey
Discover the onboard experience
The Northern Explorer journey offers more than just spectacular views of the heart of the North Island.
Scenic Plus Dining Experience
EXPERIENCE THE FLAVOURS OF OUR LAND
Elevate your experience with Scenic Plus, a full-sensory exploration of the lands you travel through aboard your Northern Explorer rail journey.
Using the finest ingredients carefully selected from the lands you see through your window, we've curated a menu of regional delicacies that are freshly prepared in our custom-built kitchen carriage and served at your seat throughout the journey.
Simply select a Scenic Plus fare when booking to upgrade to our dining experience.
Northern Explorer train 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.
If you are travelling on or after February 2nd 2025 - please note that due to improvements on our rail network, these times are subject to change with a slightly faster schedule.
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.
Explore our Scenic trains
Glide through New Zealand in beautiful style with our world-famous scenic trains connecting you all the way from Auckland to the West Coast.
Explore the flavours of New Zealand
Experience the natural flavours of New Zealand with our Scenic Plus experiences, each offering a full-sensory exploration of the lands you travel through aboard your New Zealand rail journey.
Discover true local gems with our Northern Explorer packages
Let us take care of the details while you relax and enjoy the best of New Zealand with our spectacular Northern Explorer short breaks and travel packages:
Take a tour of discovery through authentic Aotearoa
Join one of our unique rail tours for an intimate experience of the people, places, scenery, history, and culture that makes the North Island so special!
Explore More
Learn more about New Zealand's North Island and the things you can discover whilst travelling with us:
Ready to book?
You can book your Northern Explorer train tickets online now or over the phone.
For Tour and Package enquiries, call our Travel Centre team now:
0800 872 467
Monday to Saturday: 8am - 5pm
Save 10% with our partner discounts
Save 10% on your Northern Explorer Scenic train fares using one of our partner discounts:
Save 10% when booking with your Senior Gold Card
Senior Gold Card members can save 10% on their Scenic and Scenic Plus train fares
Save 10% with your AA Membership
Use Code AACARD10 to save 10% when booking with your AA Membership Card
Save 10% with your NZMCA Card
Use code FA5239 to save 10% when booking with your NZMCA Membership Card