Driving Creek Railway, Mountain railway in Coromandel, New Zealand.
Driving Creek Railway is a narrow-gauge railway in Coromandel's mountains that runs for 3 kilometers through native forest with three tunnels and ten bridges. The line climbs steep slopes to reach the Eyefull Tower at the end of the route.
Potter Barry Brickell built the railway starting in 1975 to move clay and firewood across his mountain property. The line expanded gradually over time into the working system visitors ride today.
Art pieces and pottery works are displayed throughout the journey, created by local artists and reflecting the connection between craft and nature. These installations become part of how visitors experience the passing landscape.
The complete train journey takes about one hour and fifteen minutes from start to finish. Trains run throughout the day, so arriving early helps when crowds are expected.
The railway uses multiple reversing points where trains switch direction to climb the steep mountain slopes. This zigzag technique lets it gain elevation that would be impossible on a direct route.
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