Bay of Islands Vintage Railway

Join us for a fun, family-friendly adventure on the oldest passenger railway line in New Zealand (1864). The Bay of Islands Vintage Railway is an awe-inspiring 90-minute journey through the bustling town of Kawakawa on State Highway 1, travelling east across farmland towards Opua. Visit Taumarere Station and then travel over Long Bridge, the longest curved rail viaduct in the Southern Hemisphere. Spot rare and endangered birds and unique wetland landscapes through to Te Akeake, alongside the beautiful Taumarere River. There's the option to walk or cycle one way on the Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast Cycle Trail or sit back and relax. The all-weather journey covers spectacular river views and unique flora and fauna, and we have both closed-seated carriages, outdoor-seated carriages, and a large open deck for standing and bicycles. Our Guards on each journey talk to the local history, environment, and culture, and the train journey, combined with a tour of the Te Hononga visitor centre, art gallery, Hundertwasser toilets, and a look around the local gift shops in Kawakawa, provides a wonderful excursion. Experience the magic of steam with our flagship steam engine, Gabriel (1927), and our fleet of six vintage diesel engines and eight carriages, making for a vibrant and informative visit.