From the bustling cities to the wide open spaces you can see it all with Trains Unlimited, Tours and Mainline Steam on this outstanding New Zealand tour. We will present to you some of the best steam operations and most spectacular scenery to be found anyplace in the world. During the course of this tour we are planning on using up to six different steam locomotives and several photo run-bys will be made each day. This tour is not all about trains either. New Zealand has much to offer and we give you the chance to visit some of the most spectacular areas of the country and time to explore at your leisure in some of the most beautiful cities and meet the people. Also as an added bonus we will be taking part in the Centenary Celebrations for the North Island Main Truck Line in Feilding with a large gathering of steam locomotives from all over New Zealand including a number of excursions. This is definitely a tour you don't want to miss.
OCTOBER 8 WEDNESDAY (D) Independent arrivals in Auckland with easy airport to hotel transfer by airporter bus or taxi if you prefer. For groups arriving on the same flight we will arrange a charter bus and guide to meet and transfer to the hotel. Independent check-in at the 4 star Mercure Hotel Auckland which is situated on the picturesque Waitemata Harbor in the heart of Acukland's shopping and business district and right next to the big Britomart Transportation Center and train station which has several hundred train departures and arrivals on three lines during weekdays. The hotel is also within walking distance to the waterfront area as well as the ferry terminal. Welcome dinner will start at 7:00pm at the hotel and will be hosted by Trains Unlimited, Tours and Mainline Steam staff.
OCTOBER 9 THURSDAY (B-D) Today we will offer you an Auckland city tour and points of interest in the region. Auckland has always been a place of outstanding beauty. Set between two magnificent natural harbors, and surrounded by lush green hills, its landscape boasts nearly 50 volcanic cones and many islands of the Hauraki Gulf. Auckland is rated as one of the top "lifestyle" cities in the world. You will also have plenty of time to explore the downtown area and ride some of the commutter trains out of the Britomart Transportation Center, if you like. In fact you can ride one of the push-pull commutter trains to nearby Parnell and pay a visit to the vast Mainline Steam workshops which has several steam locomotives including the ex South African GMAM garratt and a class 25 4-8-4. The shops will be open all day for visitors and several egines will be spotted outside for photos. 2nd night at the Hotel Mercure Auckland.
The above three photos at taken at the busy Auckland Britomart Transportation Center train station.
All tour members are welcome to visit Mainline Steam's Auckland workshops where the South African GMAM Garratt and the class 25 4-8-4 are under repair along with other steam locomotives and rolling stock. Mainline Steam has 15 steam locomotives in their fleet shopped in Auckland, Plimmerton and Christchurch.
OCTOBER 10 FRIDAY (B-D) We depart onboard the "Overlander" passenger train heading south for Wellington. This train departs Auckland at 7:25AM from the Britomart Transportation Center which is next to our hotel. This train links New Zealand's commerical and political capitals and gives a unique opportunity to capture a big slice of the North Island's extraordinary range of scenery. Travel through rolling green farmland and virgin bush, past quaint country towns and along rocky coasts. The journey through Tongariro National Pakr, with it three spectacular volcanic mountains is a highlight. This is a place of extremes and surprises where snow capped peaks, ancient lava flows and dense forests can be seen side by side. Also the train runs around the famous Raurimu Spiral and through several stunning river gorges. All railroad cars feature the large panoramic windows giving sweeping views of the magnificent North Island. The unique observation car at the rear of the train offers lounge seating with a view of the scenery just passed. Also the open air viewing decks allow you to set out side for some great photos. All passenger cars have full A/C. The "Overlander" arrives in Wellington at 7:25PM. Transfer to the 4 star West Plaza Hotel for check-in.
The scenery between Auckland and Wellington that the "Overlander" travels through is spectacular.
OCTOBER 11 SATURDAY (B-D) After breakfast we transfer to the ferry terminal and depart at 8:25AM onboard the Interislander Ferry for the three hour curise to Picton. The city of Wellington is set around a magnificent harbor and there is no better way of appreciating this setting than from the ferry as it cruises south towards Cook Strait. This is a narrow stretch of water named after the explorer Captain James Cook between the North and South Islands. The ferry is only in the Strait for a short time before entering Queen Charlotte Sound. The cruise down this Sound to Picton is sure to be a highlight as the hills surrounding the Sound are particularly picuresque. Upon arrival in Picton it is a short walk to the train station where we board the "Tranz Coastal" train for Christchurch which departs at 1:00PM. You will have plenty of time to explore remote Picton if you like. The first half of the journey follows the coastline much of the way with the Kaikoura Ranges on the right and the Pacific Ocean on the left. Travel through some of New Zealand's finest farmland and vineyards with an extra bonus of seeing dolphins, seals and penguins from the comfort of the train. This line passes through 22 tunnels and crosses 175 bridges. All passenger cars have A/C with reclining seats and panoramic viewing windows. There is a buffet car and an open air viewing car for your enjoyment. Arrival in Christchurch is at 6:20PM. Transfer and hotel check in at the 4 star Hotel Grand Chancellor.
Cook Strait and crusing the Queen Charoltte Sound between Wellington and Picton
Exploring the small Picton Harbor
The route of the "Tranz Costal" follows the New Zealand Coastline for most of the journey between Picton and Christchurch running through 22 tunnels with spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean and even seals on the rocks.
OCTOBER 12 SUNDAY: (L-D) We start heading south from Christchurch onboard our private steam charter crossing a
number of rivers that flow down from the
Southern Alps. Photo run-bys with our steam train will be made today. At Timaru we will stop to visit the
Pleasant Point Railway, which is situated 15 minutes
west of Timaru. Board the train at the original Railway
Station, built in 1875, which is in the centre of the
quaint country town of Pleasant Point. Travel down the
track to the Keanes Crossing complex where there is
vintage Railway Rolling Stock including Steam
Locomotives:
* 85 ton Ab699 built 1922
* 16 ton D16 built 1878.
Travel by steam train or the world's only Model T Ford
Railcar through the tree-lined centre of the town, to the
Keanes Crossing complex. There will be time to explore the fascinating museum before we reboard
our train for the rest of the trip to Dunedin.
Originally founded on the picks, harpoons and hard toil of gold miners, whalers and early Scottish
settlers nearly 150 years ago, much of Dunedin's early wealth and enterprise have left a tangible
mark on today's City. "Edinburgh of the South", the "Victorian City of New Zealand", "City of Spires
and Towers", the "Athens of the South" ... Whatever phrase is used to describe Dunedin, it usually
pertains to its distinctive 19th and early 20th century architecture. Our arrival is at the magnificent
Dunedin Railway Station which recently celebrated its 100th Anniversary.
Overnight Dunedin.
Our Charter steam train heads south out of Christchurch
Above three photos at the Pleasant Point Railway near Timaru
The magnificent Dunedin Railway Station
OCTOBER 13 MONDAY: (B-D) Free morning in Dunedin to sleep in or explore this colorful city. For those with a sweet tooth try the tour of the Cadbury Chocolate factory. In the afternoon we will board the Otago Excursion Train running on the Taieri Gorge Railway. This is considered one of the world's greatest train trips. Travel in comfort on this award winning train and experience an amazing variety of landscapes of the city, farmland, forests and the wild and rugged Taieri River Gorge. Cross magnificent stone and wrought iron viaducts and bridges and gasp at the sheer drops to the river below as the train plunges into a series of tunnels on this 38 mile line. We will have some photo stops on this run at spectacular locations in the gorge. At the end of the gorge we board our charter motorcoaches for the remainder of the journey to Queenstown. The route up the central Otago has spectacular scenery from bizarre rock pilars, desert landscapes, orchards, vinyards, blue lakes, high mountains and will river gorges. Our charter trains will have a buffet car in the consist each day that will serve sandwiches, chips, snacks and drinks at very reasonable prices.
OCTOBER 14 TUESDAY: (B-D) Wake up to the refreshing mountain air in the resort of Queenstown. Wide open
spaces, spectacular peaks, pristine lakes and gorgeous gardens is a good
description for Queenstown. This is New Zealand's most popular tourist destination
and is a year-round delight. Nestled on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu,
this city is surrounded by the majectic Remarkables Mountain Range in the snow rich
Southern Alps. The town sits at only 1020 feet in elevation, but is considered a
special place with spectacular Alpine type scenery. This was originally a gold
mining camp from the 1860's but is now known as the "Adventure Capital of the
World". This morning we have wonderful breakfast crusie planned for you onboard
the TSS Earnslaw steamship on Lake Wakatipu.
Spectaular Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu with the Remarkables Mountain Range in the background.
TSS EARNSLAW CRUISE
Relive the elegance of bygone days with a cruise
aboard the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw, one
of the last remaining coal fired passenger carrying
vessels operating in the southern hemisphere.
Affectionately known as the “Lady of the Lake”,
the TSS Earnslaw has a special place in the
hearts of Queenstown people. She has been
transporting goods to remote settlements and
conveying passengers on beautiful Lake Wakatipu
since 1912. What better to have breakfast and to view the magnificent scenery than by taking a
cruise a board the TSS Earnslaw.
Spectacular scenery in and around Queenstown
In the afternoon we have chartered the famous Kingston Flyer steam train which runs
out of Kingston on the southtern shores of Lake Wakatipu. This charter will include
photo run-bys for the railfan photographers. Transportation between Queenstown and
Kingston will be by charter motorcoach. You are also welcome to stay in Queenstown
and explore the city or the countryside. We spend a 2nd night in the city.
OCTOBER 15 WEDNESDAY: (B,D) Board the tour coach for the journey back to Christchurch through the beautiful and isolated Central
Otago. Stop at Lake Tekapo for photo opportunities with the lake and the mountains.
At Ashburton we will be making a stop at the Plains Railway. Amongst other things they have two
beautifully restored Rogers K locomotives. Overnight in Christchurch at the 4 star Hotel Grand Chandcellor.
OCTOBER 16 THURSDAY: (B,D) (Christchurch to Arthurs Pass, return) Prepare yourself for one of the most scenic sections of railway in the world. From Christchurch we
head west across the Canterbury Plains drawing closer to the rocky spine of the South Island. As
our train leaves Springfield we start climbing into the heart of the Southern Alps. Before long we are
surrounded by magnificent vistas with turquoise rivers and soaring snow capped mountains. We
cross viaducts and twist through tunnels as we make our way to the Alpine settlement of Arthurs
Pass. It is breathtaking scenery all the way.
At Arthurs Pass you will have time to explore this quaint Alpine Village while our train is turned and
serviced for the return journey to Christchurch. 2nd overnight in Christchurch.
OCTOBER 17 FRIDAY: (B-D) Free day. Today is your chance to explore the Garden City. There is so much to see and do it will keep you busy all day. Perhaps you might like to visit the Antarctic Center, take a ride on the tram which makes a loop around the downtown historic area and gives you a good feel for this very scenic and green city with many museums, plazas, parks, gardens and rivers. The streetcar makes a number of stops on this loop and you only need buy one ticket for the entire day. Get off and back on as you please. This is the best way to explore the city. Stops include Cathedral Square, Punting on the Avon, Art Gallery, Arts Center, Museum-Botanic Gardens, Clock Tower, Hagley Park, Cranmer Square, Casino, Victoria Square, New Regent Street and Cathedral Junction. Be sure and spend extra time at the historic Museum with the many displays of New Zealand history and walk the many trails in the nearby Botanic Gardens with thousands of plants and flowers. In the afternoon we suggest taking the Gondola up to the top of the mountain overlooking the city. Now, if you want to top off the day with a touch of class book reservations on the unique Tramway Dinner Restaurant. Book eary in the day, as the tram can only seat 36 persons and boards at 7:30PM at the Cathedral Junction Station.
For an added dining experience book yourself on the Christchurch Restaurant Tram for a wondering dinner onboard as you see the city at night.
OCTOBER 18 SATURDAY: (B-D) Today we make the day long journey to Picton.
Along the route we travel today we pass through
22 tunnels and travel up the Kaikoura Coast
sandwiched between the sea and the cliffs. It is
not uncommon to see seals sunning themselves
on the rocks in this area. We will stage a number of photo run-bys
at scenic locations as we make our way north along the Pacific Ocean.
OCTOBER 19 SUNDAY: (B-D) This morning we travel on the Interislander Ferry out of Picton, through the Queen Charlotte Sound,
and across Cook Strait to New Zealand’s capital city Wellington. On arrival in Wellington we transfer
to our Hotel and then the rest of the day is yours to explore the city. You will be welcome to visit the
Mainline Steam Depot at Plimmerton which is easily reached via the suburban rail network.
We know you will enjoy taking photos of our charter passenger train being loaded on the ferry.
Yes, we will bring our train with us to Wellington. Wellington is also the home to New Zealand’s national museum Te Papa which is certainly worth a
look. You can also ride the cable car. From the upper end of this line you gain terrific views over the
city and harbor.
Views of Wellington from the hillsides are wonderful.
Everyone is welcome to visit Mainline Steam's Plimmerton workshops which can be reached by the suburban rail network. View the rebuilding work on the newest steam locomotive in the fleet, a Zimbabwe class 14A Garratt.
OCTOBER 20 MONDAY: (B-D) Departing Wellington our train takes us along the Hutt line
towards the Wairarapa. After travelling through the suburbs we
pass through the 8km long Rimutaka Tunnel and arrive at
Featherston where we will stop to visit the Fell Museum.
Where we came under the Kaimai Ranges trains used to have to
travel up and over. They were hauled up, from the northern side,
by Fell locomotives and the only survivor is kept here at the
museum which also gives an excellent insight into this unique
operation from days gone by.
The above two photos are from the Fell Museum collection of the unique Fell steam locomotives pulling trains up and over the rugged Kaimai Range before the 5 mile long Ramutata Tunnel was completed. We will stop at
Featherston to visit the Fell Museum and view the last steam locomotive from this collection.
From here we continue through the Wairarapa and the rolling green pasture land where the rail line climbs up one hill and down into the next river valley several times with many curves, steep grades and wonderful bridges. We will stage several exciting photo run-bys today. Late afternoon we arrive in Napier, the famous New Zealand "Art Deco City" . In 1931 New Zealand's dead;oest earthquake devastated the cities of Napier and Hastings with a magnitude 7.8 earthquake. The city rose from the ashes and today boasts some of the finest Art Deco buildings to be found anywhere in the world.
OCTOBER 21 TUESDAY: (B-D) Today we depart northbound out of Napier on one of the most scenic and remote lines in all of New Zealand. The Gisborne Branch line is laid with lite rail and travels north up the Pacific Coast of New Zealand and through the rugged costal range to the seaport of Gisborne. This line was only just re-opend to special steam excursion traffic in 2007 and is one of the highlights of the entire tour. It climbs, descends, twists and turns through the rugged mountains and along the coastline and even at times runs almost on the beach. It clings to cliffs high above the ocean and runs through 24 tunnels and soars over countless viaducts, including the famous Mohaka which is the highest in New Zealand. Freight traffic is very light with trains only running two or three times a week. This is good news for us, as we can have the entire day to stage as many photo run-bys as time will permit on the most remote and rugged line in the country. To top of the off upon approaching town the rail line runs right across the runway of the Gisborne Airport and planes must stop for the trains! Overnight in Gisborne
The rugged Pacific Coastline and Rocky Range between Napier and Gisborne.
Approaching Gisborne the rail line runs across the airport runway and planes must stop for trains.
As we arrive with our charter train in Gisborne the distance mountains glow in the fading sunlight.
OCTOBER 22 WEDNESDAY: (B-D) When you wake this morning you will be among the first to greet the day as Gisborne is the first day, as the international date line is just east of the city. After breakfast at the hotel we return to the station to reboard our charter steam train and head back south towards Napier. We will again have the full day to retrace our steps over this rugged railroad and we will again stage as many photo run-bys as time will permit. Late afternoon arrival back in Napier, the Art Deco city and hotel check-in.
OCTOBER 23 THURSDAY: (B-D) Today is your chance to get out and really explore this city. The Napier Museum is worth a look with
its excellent display of memorabilia. There is also a huge aquarium and many tours to the
surrounding countryside. If you are interested in learning more on the Art Deco history there are
guided walks available. Overnight Napier. B,D.
You will have a full day to explore colorful Napier, the famous "Art Deco City"
OCTOBER 24 FRIDAY: (B-D) We depart Napier and retrace our route as far as Woodville
where we branch off and head down the Manawatu Gorge
to Palmerston North. Overnight Palmerston North.
OCTOBER 25/26/27 SATURDAY/SUNDAY/MONDAY: (B each morning) (Main Trunk Centenary Celebrations) Yes it’s the 100th Anniversary of the North Island Main
For the next three days the North Island Main Truck Line will be celebrating it's 100th Anniversary and we will be part of this event. Steam locomotives, diesels, rolling stock and passenger trains will be gathering to make this an outstanding event, including our train and steam engine. You will have the chance to photograph and ride a large variety of trains over different rail lines during the three days. This event will be held in the small town of Fielding which is only 10 miles north of Palmerston North. The organisers are still making plans and we will update our information as it is given to us.
MAIN TRUCK CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS
7 OPERATING STEAM LOCOMOTIVES
ALL IN EXCURSION SERVICE.
THIS IS THE STEAM EVENT OF 2008.
OCTOBER 25:
*SILVER FERN RAILCAR AUCKLAND TO PALMERSTON NORTH
*MAIN TRUCK DOUBLE HEADER WITH Ka942 & Ja1271
*PALMERSTON NORTH TO FEILDING SHUTTLES
*PALMERSTON NORTH TO WOODVILLE GORGE EXCURSION
OCTOBER 26:
*WELLGTON TO FEILDING & RETURN EXCURSION
*PALMERSTON NORTH TO FEILDING SHUTTLES
*LOCOMOTIVE CAVACADE AT FEILDING
*SILVER FERN RAILCAR EXCURSION FROM FEILDING TO WANGANUI
*FEILDING TO WOODVILLE GORGE EXCURSION
*FEILDING TO TAIHAPE EXCURSION
OCTOBER 27:
*SILVER FERN RAILCAR PALMERSTON NORTH TO AUCKLAND
*FEILDING TO TAIHAPE EXCURSION
*FEILDING TO PAEKAKARIKE EXCURSION ONEWAY
*PALMERSTON NORTH TO FEILDING SHUTTLES
As of the first of March there are now 7 operating steam locomotives planned to attend this event plus the Silver Fern Railcars and the classic RM31 railcar and of course passenger and freight equipment and diesel power. The list of steam includes: F163, Wab794, Ab663, J1211, Ja1275, Ka942, Ja1271.
THE PHOTOS BELOW GIVES YOU A GOOD SAMPLE OF
WHAT YOU WILL SEE AT THIS GRAND STEAM EVENT
OCTOBER 28 TUESDAY:(B-D) On our last day of steam action we head north from Palmerston North on the Main
Truck Line to Auckland onboard our charter steam excursion. The first part of the day we will be running through the green rolling hills of the North Island with a number of tunnels and high bridges. Later in the day we enter Tongariro National Park with its active volcanoes and breathtaking scenery. Once over the mountain range we drop down towards the Hamilton region and the famous Raurimu Spiral before arriving in Auckland. Photo run-bys will be made today .
Over night lodging at the Hotel Mercure Auckland.
OCTOBER 29 WEDNESDAY: Independent departures from our hotel in Auckland. End of the tour. If you plan on spending extra nights in Auckland either before or after the tour and want extra lodging at the Hotel Mercure Auckland you can go to the hotel website and reserve directly with them. Their individual internet rates are much better than what we can get. Go to www.mercure.co.nz
PRICES ALL PRICES ARE PERSON
DOUBLE ROOM OCCUPANY FULL TOUR.............$5795
DOUBLE ROOM OCCUPANY JOIN OCTOBER 12.......$5495
SINGLE ROOM FULL TOUR......................$6695
SINGLE ROOM JOIN OCTOBER 12................$6395
DEPOSIT TO HOLD SPACE......................$2500
FINAL PAYMENT DUE JULY 1, 2008
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