About
Experience a journey through Taranaki’s railway history with Waitara Railway, a volunteer-run heritage railway offering scenic train rides, private group charters and discounted group fares in Waitara, near New Plymouth.
Travel aboard a vintage train along the historic Waitara Branch Line, passing farmland, market gardens and countryside scenery on a return journey to Lepperton Junction.
Operated by the Waitara Railway Preservation Society, this heritage railway welcomes families, railway enthusiasts, community groups, schools and organised groups looking for a memorable experience in North Taranaki.
With regular public train rides and private charters available by arrangement, Waitara Railway offers a distinctive group outing while helping preserve an important part of the region’s history.
Why Choose Waitara Railway?
- Historic railway experience in Waitara, North Taranaki
- Scenic vintage train rides through rural countryside
- Private heritage train charters for groups
- Discounted fares for groups on scheduled public runs
- Public excursions on the first and third Sundays
- Approximately 70–80-minute return train journey
- Family-friendly activity near New Plymouth
- Ideal for clubs, schools, community groups and organised outings
- Historic locomotives, carriages and an open viewing wagon
- Volunteer-run railway preserving Taranaki’s rail heritage
Private Group Train Charters in Taranaki
Make your next group outing memorable with a private train charter at Waitara Railway.
The railway offers private group excursions by arrangement, providing an opportunity to experience heritage rail travel together while enjoying the North Taranaki countryside.
Private charters are worth considering for:
- Social clubs and community organisations
- Probus, seniors’ and retirement groups
- Schools and educational groups
- Coach tours and organised travel groups
- Family gatherings and special-interest groups
- Railway enthusiasts and heritage societies
- Corporate and workplace social outings
A private charter offers an alternative to traditional group activities and can be incorporated into a wider Taranaki day trip or group itinerary.
Contact Waitara Railway directly to discuss group numbers, charter arrangements, available dates and pricing.
Discounted Group Fares on Public Train Rides
Groups can also enjoy discounted fares on Waitara Railway’s scheduled public train services.
Public excursions generally operate on the first and third Sundays of each month, offering an easy way for clubs, families, community groups and organised visitors to travel together.
This option is ideal for groups wanting to experience the railway without arranging a separate private charter.
Contact the railway in advance to enquire about group discounts, passenger numbers and suitable departures.
Scenic Heritage Train Rides – Waitara to Lepperton Junction
Step aboard a vintage train for a relaxing return journey along the preserved Waitara Branch Line.
Departing from central Waitara, the train travels through North Taranaki’s rural landscape, passing farmland, market gardens and nurseries.
Highlights along the route include:
- The historic Waitara Incline
- The railway bridge beneath State Highway 3
- Waitara Road railway depot and yards
- The picturesque Waiongana Stream
- Lepperton Junction and the return journey
The approximately 70–80-minute excursion offers countryside views and a glimpse into traditional railway travel.
Public Train Rides, Timetable & Group Fares
Waitara Railway operates heritage train excursions on the first and third Sundays of each month, offering a memorable experience for families, visitors and organised groups.
Discounted group fares are available on scheduled public runs, while private train charters can be arranged for clubs, schools, community groups and special outings.
For current departure times, individual fares and group booking information, visit the official website.
For private charters and group discounts, contact Waitara Railway directly.
Discover Taranaki’s Railway Heritage
The Waitara Branch Line opened in 1875, becoming Taranaki’s first railway and playing an important role in the region’s early development.
Following the line’s closure, the Waitara Railway Preservation Society was established in 1999 to protect and restore this historic railway.
Regular heritage excursions began in 2003, allowing visitors and local communities to experience the railway once again.
Today, dedicated volunteers maintain the railway, locomotives and rolling stock, preserving a valuable part of New Zealand’s transport history for future generations.
A Memorable Taranaki Group Day Out
Waitara Railway is a great addition to a group outing in North Taranaki.
Combine a heritage train excursion with sightseeing, local attractions or a visit to New Plymouth and the surrounding region.
For tour organisers, social clubs and group coordinators, the railway provides an interesting heritage experience that can be included in a wider Taranaki itinerary.
Whether travelling on a scheduled public service or arranging a private charter, groups can enjoy a shared experience with a strong connection to local history.
Where to Find Waitara Railway
Location: Waitara, North Taranaki, approximately 15 kilometres northeast of New Plymouth.
Boarding point: Whitaker Street, beside New World supermarket, Waitara.
Parking is available on nearby Queen Street, Whitaker Street and West Quay.
Important: There are no toilets aboard the train. Visitors with accessibility requirements should contact the railway before travelling.
Support Local Railway Heritage
Waitara Railway is operated by the Waitara Railway Preservation Society Incorporated, a registered charity supported by volunteers.
Every visit helps support the ongoing preservation and operation of this historic railway.
By choosing a public excursion or organising a private group charter, passengers contribute to keeping Taranaki’s railway heritage alive.
Enquire Directly with Waitara Railway
Planning a group outing, club excursion, school visit or private heritage train charter?
Contact Waitara Railway directly to discuss private group charters, discounted group fares, dates and availability.
For individual passengers and families, visit the railway’s website for scheduled public services, fares and prepayment information.
Location
Where you'll find them
2 Whitaker Street, Waitara, Taranaki, 4320, New Zealand
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Where is Waitara Railway located?
Waitara Railway operates from central Waitara in North Taranaki, near New Plymouth. Trains board beside New World supermarket on Whitaker Street.
Does Waitara Railway offer private group charters?
Yes. Private heritage train charters are available by arrangement for clubs, schools, community organisations and other groups.
Are discounted fares available for groups?
Yes. Waitara Railway offers discounted group fares on its scheduled public train rides. Contact the railway for details.
When do Waitara Railway trains run?
Public trains generally operate on the first and third Sundays of each month. Check the official website for current departures.
How long is the Waitara Railway train ride?
The scenic return journey from Waitara to Lepperton Junction takes approximately 70–80 minutes.
Is Waitara Railway suitable for families?
Yes. The heritage train ride is a family-friendly experience, with children’s and family fares available.
Can Waitara Railway be included in a Taranaki group tour?
Yes. Private charters and public group excursions can be incorporated into organised Taranaki day trips and group itineraries.
How do I arrange a private train charter?
Contact Waitara Railway through its official website to discuss your group size, preferred dates and charter requirements.
Enquire
Nearby
Places to stay nearby
Places to stay nearby so you can make more of your visit.
Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park, New Plymouth, Taranaki
The Dawson Motel, New Plymouth, Taranaki
Peaceful & Peachy Holiday Homes, Stratford, Taranaki
Flamingo Motel, New Plymouth, Taranaki
Belt Road Seaside Holiday Park, New Plymouth, Taranaki
Whangamomona Accommodation – Mill House Retreat Pohokura