Coastal railway new zealand

The Coastal Railway in New Zealand! That's a scenic and iconic route that runs along the eastern coast of the North Island. Here's some information about it:

Route: The Coastal Railway runs from Auckland to Wellington, covering a distance of approximately 817 kilometers (508 miles). The route passes through some of New Zealand's most beautiful coastal towns and cities, including Tauranga, Whakatane, Gisborne, Napier, and Hastings.

Scenic highlights: The Coastal Railway offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, beaches, and coastal cliffs. Some of the most scenic sections include:

  1. The Bay of Plenty: The train passes through the picturesque Bay of Plenty, with views of the ocean, beaches, and surrounding hills.
  2. The East Cape: This section of the route is known for its rugged coastline, scenic lookout points, and historic Maori settlements.
  3. Hawke Bay: The train passes through the Hawke Bay region, with views of the ocean, beaches, and surrounding hills.
  4. The Manawatu Gorge: This section of the route is known for its stunning gorge, with steep cliffs and scenic views.

Train services: The Coastal Railway is operated by KiwiRail, New Zealand's national railway company. There are several train services that operate on this route, including:

  1. The Northern Explorer: This service runs from Auckland to Wellington, with stops at major towns and cities along the way.
  2. The Capital Connection: This service runs from Wellington to Palmerston North, with stops at major towns and cities along the way.
  3. The TranzAlpine: This service runs from Wellington to Christchurch, with stops at major towns and cities along the way.

Accommodation: There are several options for accommodation along the Coastal Railway route, including:

  1. Hotels: There are many hotels and motels along the route, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts.
  2. Bed and breakfasts: Many bed and breakfasts offer cozy and comfortable accommodation, often with scenic views.
  3. Holiday parks: Holiday parks offer self-contained units, campsites, and other accommodation options.

Tips and tricks:

  1. Book in advance: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
  2. Pack a picnic: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the scenic views from the train or at one of the many scenic stops along the way.
  3. Take your time: Take your time and enjoy the scenic views, as the Coastal Railway is a journey to be savored.
  4. Be prepared for delays: Delays can occur due to weather or track maintenance, so be prepared and plan accordingly.

Overall, the Coastal Railway in New Zealand is a must-do experience for anyone who loves trains, scenic views, and exploring new places.