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Steam Train to Muriwai

Gisborne, New Zealand

Steam Train to Muriwai

DETAILS

  • 3
    hrs Estimate Duration
  • Age

Take a ride on a vintage steam train through a scenic landscape that includes coastal views and fertile fields. A Maori cultural performance done by the local school children and photo opportunities await at Muriwai before retracing your route back to Gisborne.


The Golden Age of rail travel is celebrated on one of the last steam trains in New Zealand—the sole surviving WA Class locomotive. After a short walk from the pier, you’ll be welcomed on board the train for the forty minute ride to Muriwai.


Take your seat in one of several lovingly restored heritage carriages and set off on a picturesque ride along the Poverty Bay Coastline, past the Captain Cook Statue, and fertile areas where local produce is grown. You will also have views across the bay to the ship and Young Nick’s Head.


Built in 1897 in the Dunedin railway workshops, WA 165 was brought to Gisborne in 1911. It faithfully worked the north line until 1942, when it was retired to a children’s playground. In 1986, this beautiful piece of equipment was rediscovered and fully restored by local railway enthusiasts. Today you’ll settle into upholstered seats and toast to your good fortune with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine or fruit juice as you sit back and enjoy the passing scenery which is further enhanced by informative commentary during your ride.


Your destination is Muriwai, a small settlement 15 miles south of Gisborne. Here, you’ll alight on a rural grass platform and enjoy several photo opportunities as well as a charming Maori cultural performance performed by the local school children.


Maori is very much a living culture in this area, and while you wait for the train to be turned around for your return trip, you’ll be entertained by a lively performance, featuring the songs and dances of the local Maori people. This performance is locally produced and often includes school children who bring a special sweetness to the ceremony.


On your return journey, enjoy the company of your fellow travelers as you travel back to Gisborne.


Need to Know:

Note: There is limited required walking on this tour; however, guests must be able to negotiate 3 steep steps to enter and exit the train cars and the surfaces at Muriwai are natural and uneven. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and may not be suitable for those with mobility concerns who are cautioned to carefully evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Weather appropriate clothing; sun cap; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Three of the train carriages are air-conditioned but the Heritage carriage is not. There are restrooms on the train.

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ACTIVITY ATTRIBUTES

Excursion Type:

Scenic & City Tours
Wildlife Tours
Shopping

Activity Level:

Image Title
  • 1
    Easy
  • 2
    Moderate
  • 3
    Challenging
Tours with this activity level involve walking over relatively level terrain, possibly some cobblestone, gravel, or a few steps. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
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