Taieri Gorge Railway
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port
Port Chalmers (Dunedin), New Zealand
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activityLevel
Moderate Activity
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excursionType
12,All
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wheelchairAccessible
No
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startingAtPrice
$250
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minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
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duration
Approximately 5½ hours
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mealsIncluded
Meals included
Disembarking the ship, you’ll be transferred to Dunedin’s Iconic Railway Station by Heritage shuttles, lovingly preserved vintage coaches, used in film shoots and events across Otago. Welcomed aboard by the friendly crew as you settle in for an amazing excursion into areas only accessible by train.
Leaving the city behind, your train will first pass through the fertile farmland of the Taieri plains before climbing into the Taieri River Gorge. Famous for its sheer cliff faces and dramatic ravines that frame the paradoxically tranquil Taieri River, the kaleidoscope of spectacular scenery that unfolds before you is quite simply, breath-taking. The railroad itself is a true marvel, having been built by early pioneers through some of New Zealand's most rugged terrain; its very existence is considered by many to be a remarkable feat. From your vantage point aboard the train, you'll get an up-close look at the intricate work of the skilled railway gangs, stonemasons and engineers who carved the high bridges and produced the labyrinth of latticework that supports the soaring viaducts that comprise this historic train route.
As you relax and enjoy the magnificent landscape passing by, you will be served a meal on the journey as the train delves into the heart of the region.. During the course of your journey, the train will wind its way through the gorge, passing one unspoiled panorama after another while navigating through rock tunnels and crossing dramatic bridges suspended high above the river below.
Returning to the city, the tour concludes at the Dunedin Railway Station and a return to port on the Heritage coaches, a superb example of Victorian architecture.