Info icon
Service Alert: Important Travel Update for Northern Explorer Train Travelers . View Details

Service Alert: Important Travel Update for Northern Explorer Train Travelers

We wish to inform our valued passengers of an important update for those planning to travel on the Northern Explorer train during the upcoming scheduled network upgrade periods.

Affected Dates:

  • 15 January 2025 to 27 January 2025
  • 12 April 2025 to 28 April 2025

 

Impact on Travel: During these periods, the tracks between Auckland Strand Railway Station and Hamilton will be closed for train travel due to essential upgrade work to prepare for the City Rail Link's opening in 2026.

  • From Auckland to Hamilton: Passengers will transfer by bus from Auckland Strand or Papakura Station to Hamilton Station.
  • From Hamilton to Auckland: Passengers will transfer by bus from Hamilton Station to either Papakura or Auckland Strand Station.

 

Important Update for All Bookings Until 27 January 2025:

  • All bookings made up to and including 27 January 2025 (both old and new) will automatically receive a replacement bus service for the affected section of the route.

  • For April 2025 travel, we are currently accepting bookings to and from Hamilton only, and passengers should consider alternative transport to and from Auckland.

 

Scenic Routes Unaffected: 
Rest assured, you will not miss a significant portion of the scenic route, as the most picturesque parts of the journey are located south of Hamilton. The train journey between Hamilton and Wellington will operate as usual, allowing you to experience the breathtaking landscapes and highlights that make this journey unforgettable.

 

Alternative Travel Options: For travelers not included in the transfer bus:

  • Consider arranging private transportation between Auckland and Hamilton.
  • Local bus or coach services may be available as an alternative.
  • If you need assistance identifying suitable travel options, don't hesitate to get in touch with our New Zealand Travel Team for guidance.

 

Flexibility for Travelers: To accommodate your needs, we offer the following options:

  • Reschedule your travel to a future date.
  • Request a 100% refund if you prefer not to travel.

 

We apologize for any inconvenience caused by this disruption and remain committed to providing as much assistance as possible.

For further inquiries or assistance with your travel plans, please contact our New Zealand Travel Team.

Our friendly New Zealand Travel Team is available from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm (New Zealand Time) Monday - Sunday, excluding public holidays.

For assistance and reservations during our opening hours contact our New Zealand Travel Team by email or phone.  To cancel a reservation, please email us at info@newzealandtravelteam.com before 72hrs or 3 days from the travel date.

Phone
You can call one of our English-speaking Consultants at +64 7 575 5049

Current New Zealand time: 

Within New Zealand:
Reservations only with payment -           0800-143-669

Travel planning and all other inquiries - +64 7 575 5049

Outside New Zealand: 
+61 1800 359 729      Australia Toll-free

+1   855 413 3019    USA Toll-free
+1   866 554 0304    Canada Toll-free
+44 800 0148106     United Kingdom Toll-free

  • Home
  • Train Services
    • The Northern Explorer
    • The Coastal Pacific
    • The Tranz Alpine
    • National Train Timetable
    • Major Railway Stations
    • Regional Train Services
    • Local Trains
  • RailBus Passes
    • Scenic RailBus Passes
  • Train/Bus Passes
    • Scenic Train Passes
    • Scenic Bus Passes
  • Ferry
    • Interislander Ferry
    • BlueBridge Ferry
    • Stewart Island Ferry
  • Travel Packages
  • Day Tour/Attractions
  • Accommodation

 

 

 

Newzealand Rail
Newzealand Rail

 

Newzealand Rail
Newzealand Rail
Newzealand Rail
Newzealand Rail
  • Get Your Ticket

Please Select a Service

Train
Bus
Ferry
Hotel
X
    Gift Voucher

    Gift Voucher

    Buy a gift that that will be remembered for a life time

    View More
    Day Tours

    Day Tours

    Explore our selection of Day Tours. Visit Milford Sound, Hobbiton plus more!

    View More
    Travel Package

    Travel Package

    Explore our selection of Travel Packages.

    View More
    Rail Bus Passes

    Rail Bus Passes

    Combine our Rail & Bus Passes to take full advantage of your visit to New Zealand!

    View More
    Interislander

    Interislander

    Cruise the Cook Strait between the North and South Islands of New Zealand!

    View More
    Bluebridge

    Bluebridge

    Cross Cook Strait on a Bluebridge Ferry and enjoy real Kiwi hospitality.

    View More
  • Newzealand Rail
  • TIA
  • Train Services
  • The Northern Explorer
  • The Coastal Pacific
  • The Tranz Alpine
  • National Train Timetable
  • Major Railway Stations
  • Regional Train Services
  • Local Trains
  • Other Services
  • Train Services
  • RailBus Passes
  • Train/Bus Passes
  • Ferry
  • Travel Packages
  • Day Tour/Attractions
  • Accommodation
  • About
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy

© 2025 All Rights Reserved.

Login Here

Forgot Password ?
Register Now !

New Registration



You have already registered, please click here

Forgot Your Password ?

Bus Search

Ferry Search

  • Travel Details
  • Select Sailings

Choose Infant