The Spiral Sensation | Palmerston North, Feilding, Marton & Taihape to Raurimu or Waiouru and Return. 

Our friendly staff will be waiting to board you at Palmerston North or Feilding station where once you are seated, our train will begin its journey north through the gentle foothills of Halcombe and Kakariki then onto Marton where we truly begin our journey up the 'old trunk line'.

Sit back and enjoy the complimentary tea and coffee service as we follow State Highway One towards Hunterville. A little further up and we are soon to cross the first of our famous viaducts today, towering 73 metres high over the Makohine stream, this 229 metre long viaduct was completed in 1902. Next up, we burst through the Mangaweka tunnel, being greeted by the township of the same name along the way. The railway line here was diverted during 1980s, which saw the construction of three large viaducts over the Rangitikei and Kawhatau rivers. Marvel at the beauty of the Rangitikei river and its sheer vertical paapa cliffs (unique to this part of New Zealand), as we cross over the Rangitikei south viaduct (78 metres high, 315 metres long). Then onto the 73 metre high, 160 metre long Kawhatau viaduct where you can catch a glimpse of the joining of the Kawhatau and Rangitikei rivers. Finally crossing the third of the big three viaducts, the Rangitikei north viaduct at 81 metres high and 160 metres long. Not far from our destination now, we cross over the Toi Toi viaduct whilst clinging to the cliffs edge of the Rangitikei river as it guides us north through Utiku and into Taihape for a quick passenger stop. 

As we depart Taihape, we enter the penultimate of our climb towards the mountains. Weaving our way around tight curves, through tunnels and farming settlements, listen to the roar of the diesel locomotives as they grinds their way north towards Waiouru. Guided by the Hautapu River, be sure to count the many times we cross over this quant and picturesque river. Check out the Turangarere Horse Shoe Curve, so named as it is in the shape of a horse shoe. Through Hihitahi and into Waiouru shortly after to drop off our Army Museum passengers off.

Down the Waiouru bank and across the Tangiwai plain. Of course, Tangiwai is the location of the 1953 Tangiwai rail disaster - New Zealand's worst rail disaster claiming 151 lives. On from Tangiwai, we pass through the settlements of Karioi and Rangitaua before descending into the alpine village of Ohakune.

Departing from Ohakune we climb north over the Hapuawhenua viaduct, to the highest elevation on the New Zealand rail network, before crossing the 79 metre high Makatote viaduct. Catch a glimpse of Mt Ruapehu as we skirt our way around this beautiful maunga before arriving at National Park. From National Park, we descend down onto the engineering masterpiece that is the Raurimu Spiral, arriving into the small township of Raurimu.

Here the train engines will run around the train and couple to the other end of the train for the main event... the ascent of the Raurimu Spiral!

The Raurimu Spiral is a notable feat of civil engineering, masterly using the natural land contours so that no viaducts are needed, and only two short tunnels to overcome a climb of over 200 metres (between Raurimu and National Park) at a manageable 1 in 50ft grade (climb 1ft for every 50ft traveled). Looking out your windows, you should catch glimpses of Raurimu three times as we climb the spiral. Check out the tunnels, embankments, cuttings and tight curves! This engineering masterpiece is unique to New Zealand and is certainly an experience not to miss!

We then re-trace our steps south, with a chance to take in the sights and views that you may have missed on the trip north.

A great train trip through the countryside and up to the central plateau - suitable for the whole family!
 

Option 1  | Palmerston North, Feilding, Marton & Taihape to Raurimu and Return!

Take the full adventure to Raurimu, travelling over the grand Hapuawhenua and magnificent Makatote viaducts. 

This incredible journey encompasses nearly all of the best viaducts on the North Island Main Trunk as is a great relaxing day out!
  

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Option 2  | Palmerston North, Feilding, Marton & Taihape to Waiouru and Return!

Hop off the train at Waiouru and take a 5 minute walk to the National Army Museum. Here you will have at least three hours to explore the various exhibits and grab a bite at 'The Mess Tent' cafe. Visit https://www.armymuseum.co.nz/ for visitor information including current exhibitions.

 

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