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A small train with people on it, labeled RC03, moving on tracks. 1
A dense forest of tall trees with sunlight filtering through. 2
A forested area with a railway track. 3
A group of people gathered around two vehicles with 'raikursing' branding, in front of a building with a wooden roof. 4
A railcruising vehicle with the label RC10 on the front, traveling on railway tracks surrounded by greenery. 5

Ultimate self-drive rail car journey

By Rotorua Rail Cruising
Free cancellation available
Price is NZ$79 per adult
See tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 2h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation

Overview

Travel along scenic railway lines in a self-drive rail car, offering a unique perspective of Rotorua’s breathtaking landscapes, 1000 year old virgin native forests, rolling farmland and views over Lake Rotorua. With space for up to four passengers, these petrol-electric rail cars provide comfortable seating and clear views through waterproof sides, allowing you to savour the sights as you cruise at a leisurely 20km/h. Listen to the audio tour and delve into the rich history of New Zealand’s railways while enjoying stunning views of Lake Rotorua and Mount Tarawera. This innovative experience is perfect for families and adventurers alike, making it a must-do when in Rotorua.

Activity location

  • Rotorua RailCruising
    • 45 Ngongotaha Road
    • 3010, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty Region, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Rotorua RailCruising
    • 45 Ngongotaha Road
    • 3010, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty Region, New Zealand

Check availability

Ultimate self-drive rail car journey

  • Activity duration is 2 hours2h
    2h
  • English
Language options: English
Starting time: 3:00 PM
Price details
NZ$79.00 x 1 AdultNZ$79.00
Total
Price is NZ$79.00
Until Tue, 7 Jul

What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's included
    Audio Guide
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Water
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Coffee /tea / hot chocolate and a cookie available at Mamaku Station
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Your own railcar/s for your trip. Each car takes up to 4 people.

Know before you book

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transport options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travellers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Pet friendly
  • Baby changing Station at Mamaku Station

Activity itinerary

Rotorua RailCruising

  • 10m
The Rotorua Railcruising Station is your starting point for your journey up the rails. After a short safety briefing your guide will settle you into your rail car and set you up the track. On the way you will see rolling farmlands, 1000 year old native forests, views over Lake Rotorua.

State Highway 5 (Pass by)

Passing through the site of the now gone Tarukenga Station, you can see to your side Toi te Whenua, a 5.5 m high aluminium sculpture positioned alongside the road to greet travellers as they enter Rotorua from the Waikato side.

Tarukenga Marae Road (Pass by)

A little further on, on the right hand side of the track is the Tarukenga Marae. This Marae is a Te Arawa marae located just outside Rotorua, and closely tied to Ngāti Te Ngākau and Ngāti Tura hapū of the Te Ure o Uenukukōpako iwi. Its wharenui (meeting house) is named Te Ngākau, and it serves as a cultural, spiritual, and community hub for the local people

Dansey Road Scenic Reserve (Pass by)

Ohokeriki or Dansey Road Scenic Reserve is a 468-hectare native forest west of Ngongotahā, Rotorua, known for its ancient rimu and tawa trees, rich biodiversity, and conservation efforts. The railway drives through this native forest that is 1000s of years old.

Mamaku

  • 20m
Mamaku Railcruising Station stands on the site of the original Mamaku Rail station and is your turn around point, or end of your journey. Here you will disembark and able to go inside the beautiful log cabin for a hot drink. You can watch a video on the history of Railcruising, or browse through historical and local information. Bathroom facilities are also available here.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Rotorua RailCruising
    • 45 Ngongotaha Road
    • 3010, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty Region, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Rotorua RailCruising
    • 45 Ngongotaha Road
    • 3010, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty Region, New Zealand

Best Deals on Things to Do

Experience the wonders of the world up close with great deals on things to do near and far. We offer one-of-a-kind activities that allow you to explore Rotorua your way. Whether you love nature, culture, food or a bit of adventure, we have the perfect activity for you.