Western Wine and Dine Express

Step onboard our lovingly restored heritage coaches, hauled by diesel locomotives DC 4818 and DBR 1254. Settle into your seats to enjoy this special trip on the Western Line to Swanson for a buffet dinner at Soljans Estate Winery.

Join us for a dinner out with a difference. With options for a luxurious dining experience at Soljans Estate Winery, a dinner cruise on the Willam C Daldy or a dining experience onboard our train as we traverse the Auckland Rail Network.
So hop on board, tempt your tastebuds and senses – and experience the romance of traveling by rail to a dining experience with a difference!

Western Wine and Dine Express

Treat yourself or someone you love to a special dinner out with a difference. Leave the car at home and join us as we travel from Waiuku, through the Auckland network. Choose from one of three dinner options.

Travel the Western Line to Swanson then on to Soljans Estate Winery in Kumeu for a sumptuous buffet meal complimented by local wines. Soljans is one of New Zealand’s pioneer wineries, founded in Henderson in the 1930’s, and over 80 years later, is still proudly family owned and operated. The third oldest family winery in New Zealand and the only one to have the 5th generation of family actively involved. Dine with friends or family and enjoy the perfect blend of elegance and comfort at one of Auckland’s top wine estates.

Try a dinner with a difference on the steam tug William C Daldy. Disembark at the Strand before being taken into the Viaduct Harbour to board the largest operational steam ship in the country. With the sun setting, a delicious buffet style dinner awaits as you cruise the Waitemata Harbour.

Dine on the rails. Take in the full rail experience and have a dinner served to you on the train. Strictly limited numbers, we will be providing a multi course meal at your seat as we travel back to the heart of the city and return to Swanson.

This day is sure to be a unique and special treat, a rare chance to travel the Auckland network by heritage train with unique dining options to suit all tastes.

Soljan's Estate Buffet Menu

Warm Turkish Pide Bread with Olive Oil & Red Muhammara
Main:
Mustard Crusted Roast Sirloin, Caramelised Onions, Shallot & Jus
- Pulled Pork Shoulder Roast, Mustard relish, Apple sauce
- Oven Baked Chicken Thigh, with Saffron and Preserved Lemon
  Three Cheese Potato Gratin
  Steamed Broccolini and Burnt Carrot with Confit Garlic
- Caesar Salad w Crisp Bacon and Croutons
- Farro, Zucchini, Charred Corn, Chickpea, Chilli & Romesco Dressing
Dessert:
Seasonal Fruit Salad
White Chocolate Brownie with Softened Cream
Pavlova, Vanilla Bean Cream, Fresh Summer Fruits and White Chocolate
Beverages: Cash bar at the venue

Option 1 | Buffet Dinner at Soljans Estate Winery

The highlight of the journey, an indulgent buffet dinner at the award-winning Soljans Estate Winery. Set among vineyards in the heart of West Auckland’s wine country, this unforgettable dining experience offers generous, expertly prepared dishes paired with the winery’s acclaimed vintages. Enjoy warm hospitality and a relaxed atmosphere, the perfect setting to unwind, savour, and celebrate.

After arriving at Swanson Station, guests board a waiting coach for the short transfer to the Estate. With plenty of time to savour both the food and atmosphere, it’s a dining experience that celebrates the best of local hospitality. And for those who discover a favourite drop, selected wines will be available for purchase and enjoyment back on board the train.

Fares

Return Ex South Auckland (Waiuku/Glenbrook/Pukekohe/Papakura)

Soljans Estate Dinner: Adult $165 | Child (2-14) $120

Return Ex East/Central Auckland (Otahuhu/Panmure/The Strand/New Lynn)

Soljans Estate Dinner: Adult $145 | Child (2-14) $99

Timetable

Outward

Waiuku	dep.	1.55pm
Glenbrook	dep.	2.25pm
Pukekohe	dep.	3.10pm
Papakura	dep.	3.35pm
Otahuhu	dep.	4.00pm
Panmure	dep.	4.15pm
Auckland - The Strand	dep.	4.30pm
Grafton	dep.	4.40pm
Swanson	arr.	5.18pm
Swanson (Coach)	dep.	5.30pm
Soljans Estate Winery	arr.	5.50pm

Inward

Soljans Estate Winery	dep.	8.00pm
Swanson (Coach)	arr.	8.20pm
Swanson	dep.	8.40pm
Grafton	arr.	9.12pm
Auckland - The Strand	arr.	9.18pm
Panmure	arr.	9.35pm
Otahuhu	arr.	9.43pm
Papakura	arr.	10.00pm
Pukekohe	arr.	10.20pm
Glenbrook	arr.	11.05pm
Waiuku	arr.	11.30pm

William C Daldy Dinner Menu

Main:
Dessert:
A sweet treat to water the mouth and finish off what is set to be an enjoyable dinner and cruise!
Beverages:
An onboard cash bar will operate throughout the cruise. A selection of Alcoholic and non-Alcoholic beverages will be available.

Option 2 | Sunset Cruise and Dinner on the William C Daldy

Step aboard the historic steam tug William C Daldy for a sunset dinner cruise on Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour. As the city skyline begins to glow, enjoy a relaxed evening on the water with a buffet dinner served on deck. Disembarking at The Strand, your coach awaits to transfer you along the waterfront to the Viaduct Harbour to board the Daldy. Dine aboard a working piece of maritime history while taking in the sights of the Waitematā as day turns to night.

For those with simply a maritime desire we also have an option for dinner and a cruise only (no train travel). Meet us at the wharf, near the Maritime Museum, and cast off for the evening.

Make sure to have some warm clothing as it can get cool on the water.

Fares

Return Train Travel All Stations

"Daldy" Dinner Cruise and Train: Adult $165 | Child (2-14) $120

Dinner on the William C Daldy Only (Dinner Only - Excludes Train Travel)

"Daldy" Dinner Cruise only: Adult $139 | Child (2-14) $115

Timetable

Outward

Waiuku	dep.	2.00pm
Glenbrook	dep.	2.25pm
Pukekohe	dep.	3.10pm
Papakura	dep.	3.35pm
Otahuhu	dep.	4.00pm
Panmure	dep.	4.15pm
Auckland - The Strand	arr.	4.30pm
Auckland - The Strand (Coach)	dep.	4.40pm
Viaduct Harbour	arr.	4.50pm
William C Daldy	dep.	5.30pm

Inward

Viaduct Harbour	arr.	8.30pm
Viaduct Harbour (Coach)	dep.	8.50pm
Auckland - The Strand	arr.	9.05pm
Auckland - The Strand	dep.	9.15pm
Panmure	arr.	9.35pm
Otahuhu	arr.	9.43pm
Papakura	arr.	10.00pm
Pukekohe	arr.	10.20pm
Glenbrook	arr.	11.05pm
Waiuku	arr.	11.30pm

On Board Train Menu

Entrée

Chicken satay. Grilled Thai inspired marinated chicken thigh, served with fresh herbs and daikon pickle. – GF, DF

Vegetarian option: Balsamic glazed mushroom. Oven baked portobello mushroom, finished with sweet and sour balsamic vinegar. – GF, DF

Main:

Option 3 | Dinner on the Rails - Explore the Auckland Rail Network

Take in the full rail experience and have dinner served to you on the train. A delicious multi course meal awaits, served to your seat as we travel back down the Western Line around the water front and back through the heart of the city to Otahuhu, returning again to Swanson to pick up our passengers who disembarked earlier.

On board, passengers are served a seated degustation style meal designed to showcase a variety of flavours in a relaxed, progressive format. Each course is brought directly to your seat by onboard hosts. The menu features a carefully curated selection of dishes, each highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients. With no need to leave your seat, the experience blends comfort and convenience with thoughtful presentation and locally inspired cuisine. A bar is also available in each carriage.

Fares

Return Ex South/East Auckland
(Waiuku/Glenbrook/Pukekohe/Papakura/Otahuhu/Panmure)

Dinner on the Rails : General Admission - $125

Return Ex Central/West Auckland
(The Strand/New Lynn/Swanson)

Dinner on the Rails : General Admission - $115

Timetable

Outward

Waiuku	dep.	2.00pm
Glenbrook	dep.	2.25pm
Pukekohe	dep.	3.10pm
Papakura	dep.	3.35pm
Otahuhu	dep.	4.00pm
Panmure	dep.	4.15pm
Auckland - The Strand	dep.	4.30pm
Grafton	dep.	4.40pm
New Lynn	dep.	4.55pm
Swanson	dep.	5.40pm
Otahuhu	arr.	7.00pm

Inward

Otahuhu	dep.	7.20pm
Henderson	arr.	8.10pm
Swanson	arr.	8.20pm
Grafton	arr.	9.12pm
Auckland - The Strand	arr.	9.18pm
Panmure	arr.	9.35pm
Otahuhu	arr.	9.43pm
Papakura	arr.	10.00pm
Pukekohe	arr.	10.20pm
Glenbrook	arr.	11.05pm
Waiuku	arr.	11.30pm

Station Information

Waiuku (Victoria Ave) Station
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/Sh1MFtQDmrET45w89

Access is off Victoria Ave or Kitchener Road (old New World).
Street parking is available along Victoria Avenue. Please do not park in the Waiuku Cosmopolitan Club on Victoria Ave.

Glenbrook Station
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/PoopdP7Y9mPnCG6H9

Departing from the Short Loading Platform.
Access is via Glenbrook Station Road.
Free parking is available in the main carpark.

Pukekohe Station

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VEuQhiJmxXLcrjF2A

Departing from Platform 3
Access is via Station Road or Customs Street.
Parking is available on the street on Station Road or in the Park and Ride off Customs Street.

Papakura Station
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xzR9MBA8BUs5uDRD8

Access is via Railway Street West or Ron Keat Drive.
Parking is available on the street near by or in the Park and Ride carpark.
Papakura is also accessable via the Auckland Transport rail network. For more info visit AT.govt.nz

Otahuhu Station
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uQpJghL3HjgEUVSU7

Access is via Station Road West off Walmsley Road.
Limited parking is available on nearby streets.
Otahuhu is also accessable via the Auckland Transport network. For more info visit AT.govt.nz

Panmure Station
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XpHvtnkgMrFBc3sv5

Access is via Te Horeta Road.
Limited parking is available on nearby streets or in the Park and Ride Carpark.
Panmure is also accessable via the Auckland Transport network. For more info visit AT.govt.nz

The Strand Station
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uabj8yCdysx95gq17

Access is via Ngaoho Place.
Limited parking is available on nearby streets or in the Carpark.
The Strand is not directly serviced by AT trains but a bus stop is located near by. For more info visit AT.govt.nz
The Strand is a 15-20 minute walk from either Parnell or Britomart Stations.

Grafton Station
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rLytUA7JtoQ9aCMb9

Access is via Khyber Pass Road.
Limited parking is available on nearby streets or in the Park and Ride Carpark.
Grafton is also accessable via the Auckland Transport network. For more info visit AT.govt.nz

Henderson Station
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jPAQ2A3tyxSmh1D98

Access is via Railside Ave or Smythe Road
Limited parking is available on nearby streets or in the Park and Ride Carpark.
Henderson is also accessable via the Auckland Transport network. For more info visit AT.govt.nz

Swanson Station
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/62Zb5j2hfZbXA7Av5

Access is via Swanson road.
Limited parking is available on nearby streets or in the Park and Ride Carpark.
Swanson is also accessable via the Auckland Transport network. For more info visit AT.govt.nz

Seating Information

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.

Check out Full Terms and Conditions.

Book now for The Western Wine and Dine Express - Saturday 13th September 2025

Your ticket includes return train travel. Tickets for Option 1 - Buffet Dinner at Soljans Estate Winery Winery includes bus transfers and Buffet Dinner. Option 2 - William C Daldy Dinner and Cruise incluse bus transfers to the wharf, buffet dinner and harbour cruise. Option 3 - Dinner on the Rails includes return Train travel and dinner served onboard.

Option 1 - Buffet Dinner at Soljans Estate Winery

Adult:

@ $165.00 each

Child (2-14):

@ $120.00 each

Boarding Location:

Select up to X from the following options

Dietary Requirements:

None:

@ $0.00 each

Vegetarian:

@ $0.00 each

Vegan:

@ $0.00 each

Dairy Free:

@ $0.00 each

Other - please email us. :

@ $0.00 each

Option 2 - William C Daldy Dinner Cruise and Train Travel (all stations)

Adult:

@ $165.00 each

Child (2-14):

@ $120.00 each

Boarding Location:

Select up to X from the following options

Dietary Requirements:

None:

@ $0.00 each

Vegetarian:

@ $0.00 each

Vegan:

@ $0.00 each

Dairy Free:

@ $0.00 each

Other - please email us. :

@ $0.00 each

Option 2 - William C Daldy Dinner Cruise Only (EXCLUDES Train Travel)

Adult:

@ $139.00 each

Child (2-14):

@ $115.00 each

Select up to X from the following options

Dietary Requirements:

None:

@ $0.00 each

Vegetarian:

@ $0.00 each

Vegan:

@ $0.00 each

Dairy Free:

@ $0.00 each

Other - please email us. :

@ $0.00 each

Option 3 - Dinner on the Rails - Ex. South/East Auckland

General Admission:

@ $125.00 each

Boarding Location:

Select up to X from the following options

Dietary Requirements:

None:

@ $0.00 each

Vegetarian:

@ $0.00 each

Vegan:

@ $0.00 each

Dairy Free:

@ $0.00 each

Other - please email us. :

@ $0.00 each

Option 3 - Dinner on the Rails - Ex. Central/West Auckland

General Admission:

@ $115.00 each

Boarding Location:

Select up to X from the following options

Dietary Requirements:

None:

@ $0.00 each

Vegetarian:

@ $0.00 each

Vegan:

@ $0.00 each

Dairy Free:

@ $0.00 each

Other - please email us. :

@ $0.00 each