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Wed. Aug 20th, 2025


SEARCH NEW ZEALAND RAILWAYS

New Zealand’s railway system is a key part of the country’s transport network, with a strong focus on freight and a smaller but highly popular passenger service that caters to both tourists and local commuters.1 The network is owned and operated by KiwiRail, a state-owned enterprise.2

Key Aspects of New Zealand’s Railway

  • Freight is the Main Business: The railway network primarily functions as a bulk freight carrier.3 It transports a wide range of goods, including timber, coal, dairy products, and other agricultural exports and imports.4 The freight network links major cities and ports across both the North and South Islands.5
  • A Different Gauge: New Zealand’s railway network uses a narrow gauge of 1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in), which is different from the standard gauge used in most other countries.6 This choice was made in the early days of construction to make it quicker and cheaper to build the lines across the country’s challenging terrain.7
  • Passenger Services: While the network is heavily focused on freight, there are two distinct types of passenger services:
    • Commuter Rail: Urban passenger services are available in Auckland and Wellington, where they are managed by local transport authorities.8 These lines serve as a vital part of the public transport system for daily commuters.
    • Scenic Rail Journeys: This is what New Zealand is most famous for in terms of passenger trains.9KiwiRail operates three main scenic routes under the “Great Journeys of New Zealand” brand.10These journeys are designed to be a unique travel experience, showcasing landscapes that are often inaccessible by road.11

The Great Journeys of New Zealand

These three routes are a major draw for tourists and offer a comfortable and relaxing way to see some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. The trains feature large panoramic windows and open-air viewing carriages for photography and fresh air.12

  1. TranzAlpine: This is arguably the most famous of the three. It travels across the South Island, connecting Christchurch on the east coast to Greymouth on the west coast.13 The journey takes you through the Canterbury Plains and the majestic Southern Alps, crossing viaducts and passing through tunnels.14
  2. Northern Explorer: This long-distance train runs the length of the North Island, from Auckland to Wellington.15 The route passes through lush farmland and the central volcanic plateau, offering views of the three volcanoes in Tongariro National Park, including the famous Raurimu Spiral, a marvel of engineering.16
  3. Coastal Pacific: This route on the South Island runs along the picturesque east coast, from Picton to Christchurch.17 The train travels for almost 100 kilometers right next to the Pacific Ocean, offering views of the sea, the Kaikōura Ranges, and local wildlife.18

Heritage and Other Rail Operations

In addition to the main national network, there are numerous heritage rail operators and societies throughout New Zealand.19 These groups run historic lines, museums, and special excursion trains using restored steam or diesel locomotives, providing a glimpse into the country’s rich railway history.20 Notable examples include the Kingston Flyer and the Glenbrook Vintage Railway.



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