Step into a world where the timeless romance of classic rail travel meets the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand. Mainline Steam preserves, restores, and operates a living fleet of historic steam and diesel locomotives, bringing the thrill of the main trunk line to life for passengers across the country.
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Moving far beyond simple transit, our signature rail excursions pair the thundering power and nostalgia of vintage locomotives with warm hospitality, spacious climate controlled carriage comfort, and spectacular regional access. From dramatic gorge crossings and coastal wine country escapes to high country alpine ascents, every excursion is crafted to deliver an unforgettable day out on the tracks
Discover New Zealand By Rail
Where We Are Heading Next
​Get ready for big scenery, thundering power, and an unforgettable day out on the tracks! Step aboard our next mainline adventure as we travel through breathtaking landscapes and over iconic engineering marvels. Enjoy panoramic views from our comfortable carriages, grab a cold drink from the onboard café, or step onto the open air viewing platform to feel the breeze and experience the roar of our historic locomotives up close. Carriages fill quickly, so explore the timetable below, choose your ideal seats on our interactive map, and secure your place today!
Our Signature Journeys
Step beyond ordinary travel and embark on Aotearoa’s finest rail passages. Our Signature Journeys represent an exclusive collection of flagship expeditions, uniting the raw majesty of restored mainline steam power with modern comfort, breathtaking panoramic landscapes, and celebrated regional hospitality.
Help Us Keep History On The Rails
Mainline Steam relies on the generosity of supporters across New Zealand to keep our locomotives and carriages running. Every donation directly supports the costly work of rebuilding engines, restoring classic passenger carriages, and maintaining our facilities in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.
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Whether you are helping us overhaul a steam boiler, restore a vintage diesel engine, or maintain our open air viewing carriages, your contribution ensures future generations can experience the power and thrill of mainline steam on the open tracks.