The Heartland Explorer

Step onboard our lovingly restored heritage carriages, hauled by our classic diesel locomotive DBR1254 for an unforgettable journey into the true Heartland of central Hawkes Bay. Experience the Manawatu Gorge and the picturesque journey into the Hawkes Bay onboard GVR's iconic yellow carriages, enjoying premier scenic views and open air experiences. This unique heartland experience awaits you. 
 

Jump on board with the Glenbrook Vintage Railway for another relaxing day out by train! 
Hauled by heritage diesel locomotive DBR1254 - our train will make its way through the famous Manawatu gorge, before embarking on our journey into the heartlands of the central Hawkes Bay.

Travelling over a railway line opened 133 years ago, take this opportunity to travel by rail to either Dannevirke or Waipukurau for a relaxing visit to one of these historic towns. Investigate local shops or dine in one of the many cafes in either township. 

So hop on board as we step back in time – to how travel used to be – and experience the romance of traveling by rail travelling deep into the heartland of central Hawkes Bay!


 


 

The Heartland Explorer | Palmerston North to Waipukurau or Dannevirke & Return + Dannevirke to Waipukurau & Return. 

Experience the charm of a scenic rail journey from Palmerston North, travelling into the heart of central Hawkes Bay and return, onboard our heritage train. Relax in comfort as we wind through rolling hills, cross historic viaducts and pass over glistening rivers with breathtaking views at every turn. 

Departing Palmerston North, we travel east towards Ashhurst, the entrance to the mighty Manawatu Gorge. Enjoy the serene beauty of the Manawatu Gorge as your train gently negotiates its way along the edge of the Manawatu River, dividing the great Ruahine and Tararua ranges - an experience only possible now by rail. Leaving the gorge, we make a brief operational stop at Woodville, the junction of the Wairarapa and Napier line, before heading north towards central Hawkes Bay. 

Our train gradually climbs out of Woodville, along Papatawa and onto our first good climb up the Matahiwi bank - be sure to listen out for our classic diesel engine working hard! Beyond the grade, our train skips along the Maharahara plains. Capture the vibrant farmlands stretching as far as ther eye can see, guided by the Ruahine ranges on our left. Not long after passing Oringi and Tahoraiti, we arrive at Dannevirke, the iconic Scandinavian settled township. 

For those passengers who have chosen Option 1, you disembark here and have just on five hours to explore this proud historical town with Scandinavian roots. Check out the museum, some of the local shops and one of the many cafes on the main street, or perhaps visit family. Remember to be back at the station ten minutes before we depart at 3pm.

Options 2 & 3 passengers will carry on north towards Waipukurau. Departing Dannevirke, we will continue our journey into the rolling foothills of central Hawkes Bay. As the train glides through lush farmlands and native flora, we'll pass through the quaint towns of Ormondville and Takapau - each with their own unique history. Ormondville was once a bustling railway town in the late 1800s/early 1900s, and it still retains its charming heritage rail precinct - a window into New Zealand's railway past. Passing through Takapau, famous for its flax milling in the late 1800s/early 1900s, and the settlement of Hatuma, we soon descend towards Waipukurau, marked by the sweeping landscapes and fertile plains. 

Arriving into Waipukurau, known as the heart of central Hawkes Bay, you have just over an hour to explore the local culture, boutique stores and quaint cafes. 

Boarding at Waipukurau at 1.15pm, we retrace our steps in the afternoon warmth, back to Dannevirke to set down and pick up passengers at 3pm, then back towards Palmerston North, and through the Manawatu Gorge once again.

This journey provides not just beautiful vistas, but a true taste of the region's heritage and rural life - perfect for a relaxing and enchanting escape in the heartland.

 



 


 

Option 1  | Palmerston North to Dannevirke and Return!

Take a leisurely rail adventure to Dannevirke. Founded in 1872 by Scandinavian settlers, stands as a testament to New Zealand’s rich immigrant history and a thriving community rooted in Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish traditions. Check out a museum, local wares or lunch at one of the cafes. 

Fares

Return Ex Palmerston North

Adult: $59

Child (Ages 2 - 14): $39

One child under 2 may sit on each adult's knee. Children under 2 seated in the manner do not require a ticket.


Timetable

Outward
Palmerston North dep. 8.45am
Dannevirke arr. 10.10am
Inward
Dannevirke dep. 3.00pm
Palmerston North arr. 4.25pm


 

 

Option 2  | Palmerston North to Waipukurau and Return!

A journey with all the highlights - rivers, a gorge, viaducts, bridges, charming landscapes, steeped in history. Journey with us through old New Zealand right into the heart of central Hawkes Bay. At Waipukurau, enjoy the rich local culture, architecture, as well as investigating local stores and cafes. 

Fares

Return Ex Palmerston North

Adult: $89

Child (Ages 2 - 14): $69

One child under 2 may sit on each adult's knee. Children under 2 seated in the manner do not require a ticket.


Timetable

Outward
Palmerston North dep. 8.45am
Waipukurau arr. 12.00pm
Inward
Waipukurau dep. 1.15pm
Palmerston North arr. 4.25pm


 

 

Option 3  | Dannevirke to Waipukurau and Return!

Calling all Dannevirke locals!! Once again, GVR brings you the opportunity to catch a train from YOUR very own railway station. Come join us for a journey to Waipukurau, the heart of central Hawkes Bay. A wonderful little day out retracing rails that date back 133 years. 

Fares

Return Ex Dannevirke

General Admission (Ages 2+): $49

One child under 2 may sit on each adult's knee. Children under 2 seated in the manner do not require a ticket.


Timetable

Outward
Dannevirke dep. 10.15am
Waipukurau arr. 12.00pm
Inward
Waipukurau dep. 1.15pm
Dannevirke arr. 3.00pm

 

Station Information

Palmerston North Station
Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/HuAY4Wgc6xobXXKRA

Access is off Tremaine Ave.
Parking is available at the station.

Dannevirke Station
Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aj7bHRitKqzPFkXv8

Access is off Hall Street.
Ample free parking is available at the station and in neighbouring streets.

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We aim to seat passengers from the same booking together. You will be allocated at least one window seat for bookings of 2 or more (subject to availability). Where possible, seats will be turned to face the direction of travel (pairs and singles) or to face each other (groups). If you are traveling with people on a different booking or have another specific request then please email us as soon as possible at [email protected] and we will try and accommodate your request the best we can. Your allocated seat and carriage details will be on your boarding pass which will be emailed to you at least 2-3 days before your departure date.

Onboard Information

  • Smoking or the consumption of Alcohol (not served by your train crew) is prohibited anywhere onboard our trains, including on any viewing platform, this includes the use or charging of e-cigarettes.
  • Due to the heritage nature of our carriages there is limited accessibility for people traveling with Wheelchairs. Please contact us in advance to discuss your requirements.
  • Animals apart from seeing and hearing guide dogs may not travel onboard our trains.
  • Only the named passengers on your booking will be allocated seats. One child under 2 may sit on each adult's knee. Children under 2 seated in the manner do not require a ticket.
  • There are toilets onboard our train which can be used throughout the journey.
  • Cold food or drink may be brought and consumed onboard the train provided that this does not disturb our passengers and that you take all rubbish and food scraps with you. 

Refund Information

  • Refunds of fares paid, net of any payments made by GVR from those fares, requested and received by GVR up to and including fourteen clear days before the commencement of the trip or tour will be made without deduction other than a $30 administration charge per person booked. However no administration charge will apply where refunds arise as a consequence of the trip or tour being fully booked, cancelled prior to commencing, or postponed to a later date and the refund application is received within four days of the original trip or tour date.
  • No refunds will be given in the event of breakdown en route or unavailability of the advertised means of conveyance.
  • No refunds will be made if after departure, for whatever reason, passengers do not utilise the included trip or tour arrangements. Travel insurance may provide some degree of relief in limited cases.
  • No refunds of fares paid or any other form on recompense will be given as a result of any person missing any aircraft, train, bus or ferry in connection with this trip or tour for whatever reason.
  • No refunds will be given for cancellations unless the request is notified in writing to the GVR at least fourteen clear days before commencement of the trip or tour. Each such cancellation will be subject to the $30 administration charge per person booked.

Book now for The Heartland Explorer - Tuesday 12th November 2024

Your ticket includes return train travel.  

Option 1 - Palmerston North to Dannevirke and Return - Dep. 8.45am

Adult:
@ $59.00 each
Child (2-14):
@ $39.00 each

Option 2 - Palmerston North to Waipukurau and Return - Dep. 8.45am

Adult:
@ $89.00 each
Child (2-14):
@ $69.00 each

Option 3 - Dannevirke to Waipukurau and Return - Dep 10.15am

General Admission (Ages 2+):
@ $49.00 each