Gisborne Steam Train Adventure
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Port
Gisborne, New Zealand
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$149.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
The Journey by rail back in time with a ride on the sole surviving WA-Class steam locomotive in New Zealand.
Following a bus shuttle from the pier to the station, climb aboard and take your seat in one of the three restored, heritage carriages for a memorable 40-minute steam train ride down the scenic Poverty Bay coastline to Muriwai. Built in 1897, WA 165 was brought to Gisborne in 1911 to work the steep sections of rail to the north. It worked on that line until 1942, before being turned into the star attraction in a children's playground until 1986. Finally, this beautiful piece of equipment was re-discovered and fully restored by the local vintage railway enthusiasts, to run again in all its Victorian glory.
Following a shuttle bus from the pier, you'll settle into upholstered seats and toast to your good fortune with a glass of sparkling wine or juice. You will pass the Captain Cook Statue and enjoy views across the bay to the famous Young Nick’s Head (Te Kurī-a-Pāoa) headland.
At Muriwai, a small settlement 15 miles south of Gisborne, you will alight while the steam train will be turned around for the return to Gisborne. While waiting, you'll be entertained by a lively Maori cultural performance by local school children*
Notes:
Participants must be physically able to climb three very steep stairs to board the train. The platform at Muriwai is grass.
* For Westerdam's call on 30th December 2024, due to the holiday period, the entertainment at Muriwai will be by a local performance group.