Frequently Asked Questions

We have several methods available. Online via the link on this website or using the Bookit online booking app on our facebook page; by phone 0800 783 264; or download a booking form and either post or email it to the addresses shown on it.

If booking online then by credit card only. If booking direct with us in addition to using a credit card you could also pay via internet banking or making a deposit at a BNZ branch.

Sorry, no.

We offer a child fare for children under 13 years old. However there is no charge for infants under two years sitting on an adult’s lap and not occupying a seat.

If you booked online we will email your seating details and an information update about the excursion a couple of days beforehand. You will also receive a confirmation email immediately after making your booking.

Our carriage fleet is made up of restored heritage carriages. Many are over 100 years old with open end balconies. Others were built in the early 30’s to early 40’s and still retain their original appearance. Two cars have modernised interiors with carpet and fabric upholstered seats. There is no division into different fare classes for the above carriages. You can request your seating preference when booking although we will not always be able to guarantee that your preference will be granted.

A new addition to fleet is lounge car which is being marketed as “Gold Class”. A fare surcharge will apply to travel in this carriage.

Most seats are configured in a 2 x 2 arrangement. That is two seats on either side of a central aisle. Apart from the end bulkhead seats the remainder are reversible to either face the direction of travel or to face other travellers in your group.

Yes for day excursions seating is preallocated. For very short rides (less than an hour) we are not likely to reserve seats.

No. All seats are padded. For a long trip you are welcome to bring your own cushion for extra comfort.

Yes, most carriages have a toilet at one end. If a particular carriage does not then there will be a toilet in the adjacent carriage. The toilet cubicles are compact. They may be used during station stops.

Yes, Passengers are welcome to move from car to car. However, care must be exercised when moving between cars, no bare feet and children must be accompanied by an adult. Standing on the gangways between carriages is not allowed. Restrictions on moving about the train while passing through tunnels may apply.

Yes, there is a buffet counter usually positioned near the centre of the train. On some trips there will also be enroute refreshment stops or the option of preordering an evening meal that will be delivered to the train.

Yes.

Sometimes. You will be advised before the trip if it is licensed. A small amount of BYO is permitted on occasions when we do not have a liquor license.

From time to time we have limited EFTPOS available subject to cell phone coverage. Cell phone coverage is poor for many of the routes we travel. Cash is preferred.

Sorry, no, but the carriages do warm up after a short time of being occupied. Temperatures vary on the train so we do suggest that you wear layers that can be added or removed as required. If it looks like being a very cold day you consider bringing a blanket.

Due to the age and design of the carriages it is not possible to board whist seated in a wheelchair. However we will be pleased to convey passengers of limited mobility whenever possible provided they can step onto the train from the platform, climbing a step and move to their reserved seats with the help of an able bodied carer. Our crew would assist guiding the passenger up the step onto the train and arrange for the storage of the wheelchair in the guards van. The wheelchair must be able to be folded up and cannot be used on the train. We request that you advise us of your needs when booking so that we can provide appropriate assistance. Sorry we are unable to convey mobility scooters.

As long as the pushchair is foldable then it will not be a problem to bring it on the train. It will be stored in the luggage area. We can usually accommodate one or bicycles. Please let us know at time of booking that you want to bring a cycle. Wheelchairs would take priority.

No. By law smoking is not allowed on the train. This restriction applies to all areas of the train including outside on the open end balconies.

For the comfort of all passengers the, the only dogs allowed on the train are guide dogs, hearing dogs and mobility assist dogs.

Think of the train like an aircraft. We are unable to carry flammable liquids, explosives (including fireworks), solvents & fuel (including gas bottles), ammunition, etc.

Our tours operate over a variety of routes so boarding locations can vary. For the majority of trips that originate from Paekakariki they will depart from the main Paekakariki Station platform and not from our depot. There is good car parking nearby.

Trains running north from Paekakariki will typically pickup at Paraparaumu, Waikanae, Otaki, Levin, Palmerston North, then stations depending on the route. Trains running south from Paekakariki will pick up from one or two intermediate suburban stations.

We welcome volunteers and it is easy to join our team. Either approach one of our members on the train or via the website link.