The Bay of Islands Vintage Railway trains depart from Kawakawa on New Zealand’s North Island and run right through the middle of the charming main street before taking you across several bridges to a picnic area by the river at Taumarere.
Since 1985 this historic railway has been operating fun rides in vintage carriages. Jump aboard for the almost 3-mile (4.5-kilometer) trip to hear all about the history of the railway as you are transported through the rolling hills of Northland.
Just over 150 years ago this railway was constructed to transport coal from the local mines to the port in Opua. It was the island’s first metal train track. The trains soon also carried the region’s meat and dairy products and passengers to the harbor.
As of 2019, restoration works are underway by the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway Trust to extend the railway to Opua once more, a change which would take passengers along 14 bridges and through a longtunnel.
Traditionally the carriage is pulled by Gabriel the steam engine from 1927, which was moved and restored here in 1986. Volunteer engineers, with the help of local unemployed youth, make sure the old locomotive won’t run out of puff.
When Gabriel is undergoing repairs, other classic engines take over. A popular diesel model is the black-and-yellow painted Esmae, nicknamed “the Bumble Bee.”
Back at the station, you can also admire other models like Charlie (1967) and Ruby (1973),imported from Burton-on-Trent in the U.K. Have drinks or lunch in the heritage-listed station café to chat with locals and fellow passengers.
Trains are running Friday to Sunday year round and daily during the longer school breaks. Get your tickets locally or via the Paihia i-Site. There are discounts for young kids, families and seniors. If you are doing the Twin Coast Cycle Trail, you can “cheat” by taking the train for part of the way at no extra charge for your bike.
The historic Bay of Islands Vintage Railway station is located on the northern side of Kawakawa and on-site parking is free. While in town, don’t miss the artistic Hundertwasser toilets in the main street, one of the worlds most “out there” public toilet blocks.
