The Bay of Islands Vintage Railway
The Bay of Islands Vintage Railway journey is a unique part of the Pou Herenga Tai – Twin Coast Cycle Trail.
Why do we have a train connection?
The Pou Herenga Tai – Twin Coast Cycle Trail was completed in 2017, utilising sections of the disused railway corridor.
The Bay of Islands Vintage Railway started a three-phased restoration project to see the iconic train journeys reinstated. The first phase of the restoration project saw 3.2km of railway line restored. This section ran from Taumārere Station to Te Akeake Platform. Phase two has seen the restored railway line extend another 2.8km, bringing the restored railway line to a total of 5km, running from Te Akeake Platform to Whangae Tunnel Platform. The third phase of this project will see the railway line extended further.
Cyclists can no longer access the railway corridor due to live railway line safety regulations. However, the train service offers a unique connection transporting cyclists from either Kawakawa Station or Taumārere Station to Whangae Tunnel Platform or vise-versa.
Meanwhile plans are underway to create a new trail that will run alongside the train, keeping cyclists’ safety a priority. This is a large project that will take time to complete. Once the project is underway, you will be able to find project updates on our News webpage.
What does the train connection mean to me as a cyclist?
The Cycle Trail that runs from Kawakawa – Ōpua currently includes a 5km train journey.
This connection is a 30-minute journey on the oldest passenger railway line in New Zealand will take you right through the bustling town of Kawakawa, east across farmland, through beautiful countryside, past rivers, and native wetlands, and over the longest curved wooden bridge in the Southern Hemisphere towards Ōpua.
Load your bike onto an open deck lined with bike racks where a helpful team will ensure your bikes are secure.
Cyclists can catch the train at the Kawakawa Station or at Taumārere Station if traveling to Ōpua; if travelling Ōpua – Kawakawa, you must catch the train at Whangae Tunnel Platform. There is no option to cycle this 5km stretch.
Don’t want to catch the train?
We understand that there are people who do not wish to catch the train—or who will be on the trail outside of the train’s operating schedule. An alternative road trail has been put in place to accommodate those who wish to cycle this section. Find out more about the Ōpua/Whangae Road Trail here:
Bookings are essential
For more information and details on Train Fares, Timetables and Bookings please contact Bay of Islands Vintage Railway.