Bay of Islands Scenic Railway Line

The Bay of Islands Scenic Railway Line is a heritage railway in the Far North District that runs through farmland and native wetlands between Kawakawa and Opua. The service operates with historic steam and diesel locomotives, offering approximately 45-minute round trips through the landscape of the Far North.

The railway was established in 1985 following the end of New Zealand Railways Corporation services in the region. The operation inherited locomotive J 1211 and initially ran multiple daily trips for passengers.

The railway preserves New Zealand's transportation heritage through its collection of steam and diesel locomotives that represent different eras of rail development. Visitors experience these machines in active use and see how such vehicles once carried people and freight across the country.

The railway operates on multiple days per week, mainly on weekends and during school holidays. Visitors should check the schedule in advance, as the frequency of services varies by season.

A notable feature is that the track runs directly through Kawakawa's main street. This creates an unusual moment where the train passes through the heart of town activity and daily life.

Location: Far North District

GPS coordinates: -35.35600,174.11000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:01