Wellington Train Tours: the 4 Best Rides

1.Northern Explorer Train Journey from Wellington to Auckland

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 513 reviews · from $157Our pick

Travel from Wellington to Auckland on the Northern Explorer, passing the Kapiti Coast, Tongariro National Park, the Raurimu Spiral, and Waikato farmland. You get comfortable seating, GPS audio commentary, open-air viewing decks, and a licensed café. The 7:55 am departure makes this a full day on the rails.

“Some aqueducts and the volcano. Too long and less variety than expected. Not clear that we would stop near Auckland so ended up going through to CBD”

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2.Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 54 reviews · 6 hours · from $131

Start near Kaitoke and ride 28km through native bush, old railway tunnels, bridges, and Wairarapa farmland. Your eBike, helmet, lunch, maps, and return shuttle are included. The ride is self guided after a detailed briefing from guides such as Sam, James, or Isaac William.

“What an incredible day!! The views, the physical and mental workout.. and all supported by the magical commentary and conversation with James. He is a rockstar tour host👊”

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3.Remutaka Rail Trail Mountain Bike Explorer Cycle Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 49 reviews · from $124Best value

You’ll ride 28km from Kaitoke through Pakuratahi Forest and over the Remutaka Range toward Cross Creek, using a supplied pedal bike, helmet, lights, pannier, lunch, and water. Staff brief you before the self-guided ride, with pickup from Wellington Station or the port.

“Well organised. Staff polite and informative including describing how to call for assistance when there is no cellular service. Route to be taken clearly explained including where those who may feel uncomfortable have the option of taking Read more”

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4.Remutaka Rail Trail Mountain Bike Explorer Cycle Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 30 reviews · from $124

Cycle the Remutaka Rail Trail from Kaitoke through Pakuratahi Forest and over the Remutaka Ranges. Wildfinder supplies bikes, helmets, safety gear, lunch, water, and shuttles from Wellington. The easy-to-moderate route suits many riders, with options to adjust the distance.

“I ended up being the only one on the trip so I rode solo throughout and I really enjoyed the quiet of the trail and mountains. The views were great, I got to see so many birds and listen to the water in the creeks. I chose a regular bike oRead more”

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