Ride Your Own Self Drive Rail Car in Rotorua
Discover one of the most unique things to do in Rotorua with RailCruising Rotorua. Drive your own petrol-electric rail car along the historic Rotorua Railway, taking in spectacular lake views, native forest, rolling countryside and fascinating railway history on an unforgettable self-drive adventure.
Departing from either Ngongotaha Station or Mamaku Railway Station, RailCruising Rotorua offers return and one-way journeys through scenery normally only seen from the railway itself. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, family or small group, this all-weather experience is unlike anything else in New Zealand.
Why Choose RailCruising Rotorua?
Rotorua rail cruising combines railway heritage, stunning scenery and a one-of-a-kind self-drive experience that can’t be found anywhere else in New Zealand.
- Drive your own self-drive rail car
- One of Rotorua’s most unique experiences
- Travel along the historic Rotorua Railway
- Spectacular views of Lake Rotorua and Mt Tarawera
- Journey through native forest and rural landscapes
- Comfortable covered rail cars with panoramic views
- Audio commentary sharing local railway history
- Suitable in most weather conditions
- Perfect for couples, families and small groups
- Book direct for the best availability
Your RailCruising Experience
Each self-drive RailCruising vehicle comfortably seats up to four adults, or two adults and up to three children, allowing you to enjoy the journey at your own pace while travelling safely as part of a guided convoy.
The petrol-electric rail cars travel at approximately 20 km/h, giving you plenty of time to admire the scenery, photograph the landscape and listen to the informative onboard audio commentary.
With clear waterproof sides, blankets for cooler days and comfortable seating, RailCruising Rotorua is an enjoyable experience throughout the year.
Choose Your Railway Journey
RailCruising departures operate from both Ngongotaha Station and Mamaku Railway Station, offering several journey options.
Ngongotaha Station
Just 10 minutes from Rotorua, Ngongotaha Station offers:
- 1-hour return trips to Tarukenga
- Longer return journeys to Mamaku
- Beautiful lake views
- Easy access from Rotorua
Mamaku Railway Station
Located around 20 minutes from Rotorua, Mamaku Station offers:
- 1.5-hour return journeys
- Scenic native forest
- No public road crossings
- Historic log cabin station
One-way journeys between Ngongotaha and Mamaku are also available by arrangement.
Comfortable Self Drive Rail Cars
Every RailCruising vehicle includes:
- Comfortable seating
- Petrol-electric operation
- Clear weatherproof sides
- Blankets for cooler weather
- 360-degree panoramic views
- Excellent visibility for photography
The open design means everyone enjoys uninterrupted views throughout the journey.
Discover the Historic Rotorua Railway
Originally planned in 1877, the Rotorua Railway was built to bring visitors to the famous Pink and White Terraces before the Mt Tarawera eruption dramatically changed the landscape.
Today the restored railway has been brought back to life through RailCruising Rotorua, allowing visitors to experience this remarkable piece of New Zealand railway history while travelling through landscapes once used by timber workers, sawmill operators and early settlers.
Scenic Views Along the Way
Your journey travels through some of Rotorua’s beautiful countryside, including:
- Lake Rotorua
- Mt Tarawera views
- Native forest
- Rolling farmland
- Historic railway cuttings
- Gentle curves and railway bridges
- Peaceful rural scenery
Group & Family Friendly
RailCruising Rotorua is suitable for:
- Families
- Couples
- Friends
- Small groups
- Visitors of all ages
- Domestic travellers
- International visitors
Each rail car provides a private experience while travelling with other vehicles along the railway.
Book Direct
Book your Rotorua rail cruising adventure direct with RailCruising Rotorua for the best availability and departure times. Advance bookings are strongly recommended, especially during weekends, school holidays and peak visitor periods, as each departure has limited rail cars available.
Explore More of Rotorua
Continue your adventure by exploring geothermal attractions, lakes, mountain biking, Māori cultural experiences and family activities throughout the region.
Read our Bay of Plenty Travel Guide for more things to do, places to visit and unforgettable experiences around Rotorua.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does RailCruising Rotorua depart from?
Tours depart from both Ngongotaha Station, around 10 minutes from Rotorua, and Mamaku Railway Station, approximately 20 minutes from Rotorua.
Do I drive the rail car myself?
Yes. Every booking travels in its own self-drive petrol-electric rail car while following a safe guided convoy.
How many people fit in one rail car?
Each rail car carries up to four adults, or two adults and up to three children.
Is RailCruising suitable in wet weather?
Yes. The rail cars feature clear waterproof sides and provide an enjoyable all-weather experience.
How fast do the rail cars travel?
The rail cars cruise at approximately 20 km/h, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Advance bookings are recommended as departures have limited availability.
Is RailCruising suitable for families?
Absolutely. RailCruising is one of Rotorua’s most popular family-friendly activities and is suitable for visitors of all ages.
