Glenbrook Vintage Railway Trips

The Ruapehu Scenic Daylight - A Vintage Train Journey Through New Zealand's Heartland

Step aboard a lovingly restored heritage coach, hauled by the iconic diesel locomotives DBR1254 and DC4818, for a unique and scenic rail journey through the North Island. From Waiuku, Glenbrook, and Pukekohe to Ohakune and return, experience the romance of train travel as we venture through spectacular landscapes and historic engineering marvels.

Journey Overview: On this unforgettable day out, you’ll travel down the Main Trunk Line, weaving through the heart of the North Island's King Country and Central Plateau. Along the way, enjoy complimentary refreshments and breathtaking views, including the famous Waiteti Viaduct and the Poro-O-Tarao Tunnel, both landmarks of New Zealand’s rail history. The journey also includes the Raurimu Spiral, a brilliant feat of civil engineering that takes you through tight curves and tunnels as you ascend to National Park.

Optional Adventures: Once at National Park or Ohakune, choose from three exciting experiences:

• Option 1: Mt Ruapehu & Sky Waka Gondola Alight at National Park and take a bus transfer to Whakapapa Ski Area. Here, enjoy a scenic ride on the Sky Waka gondola, offering panoramic views of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngāuruhoe, and beyond. At the summit, visit Knoll Ridge Chalet, New Zealand's highest year-round eatery, before heading back to the train.

Fares

Return Ex Auckland (Waiuku/Glenbrook/Pukekohe)

Adult $195 | Child (2-14) $135

Return Ex Hamilton (Rotokauri/Frankton)

Adult $165 | Child (2-14) $119

• Option 2: Free Time in Ohakune For a more relaxed option, travel to Ohakune where you’ll have time to explore the charming town. Visit the local railway museum or take a short walk before returning to the station for your journey home.

Fares

Return Ex Auckland (Waiuku/Glenbrook/Pukekohe)

Adult $155 | Child (2-14) $115

Return Ex Hamilton (Rotokauri/Frankton)

Adult $119 | Child (2-14) $89

• Option 3: The Raurimu Spiral Explorer For railway enthusiasts, this option gives you the chance to descend the iconic Raurimu Spiral while witnessing a steam train from Steam Incorporated. After a thrilling climb, you’ll return to Ohakune to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Central Plateau before heading back home.

Fares

Return Ex Auckland (Waiuku/Glenbrook/Pukekohe)

Adult $175 | Child (2-14) $135

Return Ex Hamilton (Rotokauri/Frankton)

Adult $139 | Child (2-14) $109

Food and Drink: Enjoy a licensed train service with a selection of food and drinks available onboard. For a special treat, pre-order the Burger and Bevvy Combo for $15, which includes a burger and a refreshing beverage.

This journey is one not to be missed. Whether you're a train enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking for a memorable day out, The Ruapehu Scenic Daylight offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Book now and step back in time with us!

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Raurimu Spiral Explorer | Ohakune to Raurimu and Return

Step aboard the lovingly restored heritage coaches of the Glenbrook Vintage Railway, hauled by diesel locomotives DBR1254 and DC4818. Sit back and relax as we embark on a scenic journey along the Main Trunk Line, traveling from Ohakune to Raurimu and back.

Our journey begins with the train ascending out of Ohakune, crossing the spectacular Hapuawhenua Viaduct—an impressive 414m long and 51m high. As we continue upwards, we reach the "Last Spike," the historical point where the railheads met in 1908. From there, the train climbs to the highest point on New Zealand's rail network before crossing the mighty Makatote Viaduct. Stretching 262m and towering 79m above the valley floor, this viaduct offers breathtaking views of Mt Taranaki on one side and Mt Ruapehu on the other, on clear days.

As we pass through National Park, you'll enjoy stunning views of the Tongariro National Park, including the iconic Mt Ngauruhoe and the majestic Mt Ruapehu.

The highlight of the journey is the famous Raurimu Spiral, a marvel of civil engineering. Using the natural contours of the land, this ingenious spiral allows the train to climb over 200 metres without the need for viaducts, relying instead on two short tunnels and tight curves. From your window, you'll catch glimpses of the small township of Raurimu as we loop and wind our way upward. This engineering feat is unique to New Zealand and offers an unforgettable experience.

Upon reaching Raurimu, the train engines will switch ends, and the main event begins—the ascent of the Raurimu Spiral! This is a rare opportunity to witness the power and precision of vintage diesel locomotives working their way up the iconic spiral, a feat that every rail enthusiast will cherish.

The entire family can enjoy this train journey, with its captivating scenery and fascinating history. After the climb, we’ll return to Ohakune, where another special train from Steam Incorporated will be waiting, making for a memorable day of rail adventures.

Fares

Return Ex Ohakune

Seat (Ages 2+) $35

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