Train Service Guide

All Aboard the Guide to New Zealand Train Services! Say Hi to all the ways to travel by train across both Islands!

North Island

Auckland

Operator: Auckland Transport (AT)

Key Lines:

• Western Line: Auckland CBD to Waitakere and Swanson, passing through New Lynn and Glen Eden.
• Southern Line: Britomart to Papakura, stopping in Otahuhu and Middlemore.
• Eastern Line: Britomart to Maukau, Glen Innes, and Panmure.
• Onehunga Line: Links Auckland CBD to Onehunga and the southern suburbs.

Payment with Cash or AT HOP Card (AT HOP Card = Better Savings)

AT Website and App for timetables and real-time tracking.

Wellington

Operator: Metlink

Key Lines:

• Wairarapa Line: Connects Wellington to Masterton and other Wairarapa towns.
• Hutt Valley Line: Wellington to Upper Hutt, passing through Lower Hutt and Petone.
• Johnsonville Line: Wellington CBD to Johnsonville and suburbs between.
• Kapiti Line: Wellington to Waikanae, covering the Kapiti Coast.

Payment with Cash or Snapper Card (Snapper Card = Better Savings)

Metlink website and app for timetables and real-time tracking

Christchurch

Operator: KiwiRail Scenic Journeys

Key Routes:

• TransAlpine: One of NZ's most famous train lines, connecting Christchurch and Greymouth.
• Coastal Pacific: Christchurch to Picton
• Great Journeys of New Zealand: Includes Transalpine and Coastal Pacific as part of its offerings.

Payment Options

• Online via KiwiRail Scenic Journeys 
• Travel agents or other booking platforms

KiwiRail Scenic Journeys Website shows timetables and real-time tracking.

Queenstown

No local train service, but nearby regions offer scenic rail journeys.

Nearby Train Routes:

• Taieri Gorge Railway: Dunedin through the Taieri Gorge
• The Kingston Flyer: Kingston to Fairlight offering historical and scenic experiences.

General Tips for Train Travel

• Book in Advance to save a seat and get the best prices
• Check timetables on the operator's website or app before traveling.
• Consider travel passes or multi-ride options for multiple journeys. Some operators offer special passes!
• Know and follow luggage policies, and check for comfortable seating and amenities.
• Check other local transportation options to complement your train travels.