New Zealand's
Rail Wonders
Main Tour: October
10-28, 2002
Pre-Tour: Oct. 6-10
Optional Pre-tour
Oct. 6
LOS ANGELES - AUCKLAND
Our trip begins with our flight from Los Angeles bound for Auckland,
New Zealand. Air New Zealand Flight #1, departs at 9:30 p.m.
Oct. 7
INTERNATIONAL DATELINE
Move ahead one day when we cross the International Dateline.
Oct. 8
ARRIVE AUCKLAND
Kia Ora! Welcome to New Zealand! Our non-stop flight is scheduled
to arrive at 6:15 a.m. today in Auckland, New Zealand's largest
city. It is situated at the north end of the country on a narrow
isthmus of land between the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean. The
city, built around two harbors and their waterways, is called
"City of Sails."
After completing customs and
immigration formalities, we are met by our local guide and coach
driver and transferred into the central city. Our hotel rooms
have been pre-registered for immediate use. You will have time
to rest, have lunch and freshen up before this afternoon's tour
of the city.
Our first stop is the downtown waterfront, remodeled to host various yachting syndicates and the thousands of visitors who came for the America's Cup yachting regatta in 1999/2000. We step aboard a sleek 50-foot yacht for a short sailing experience on Auckland's stunning Waitemata Harbor. These waters and the Hauraki Gulf beyond, with its America's Cup-class sailing breezes and many pretty islands, provide Aucklanders with a nautical playground at their backdoor.
Later, we tour the Auckland War Memorial Museum. It is situated on an extinct volcanic cone with great views of the city and harbor. The museum houses a world-renowned collection of Maori and Polynesian treasures and nowhere else can one so quickly and so compellingly be introduced to the people of the Pacific and New Zealand, the remarkable flora, fauna and geography of these islands. The current Museum Building (opened 1929) is a memorial to New Zealand war dead who sacrificed their lives in the First World War, Second World War and other conflicts.
To complete our tour of just some of Auckland's highlights we take a ride up Sky Tower. The Tower is 1,066 feet to the very top - higher than the Eiffel Tower - and from the glass-floored observation deck you have spectacular views of the city, harbor and the islands of the Hauraki Gulf.
Back at the hotel this evening we enjoy a festive cocktail reception to mark the beginning of our New Zealand rail adventure.
Accommodation: Stamford Plaza, Auckland
Oct. 9
AUCKLAND: Mainline Steam Workshop; Glenbrook Vintage Railway
(B,L,D)
After a hearty breakfast, we set out for our first experience
of New Zealand's rail history. We visit the Parnell Locomotive
Depot, workshop of the Mainline Steam Heritage Trust, the organizers
of the New Zealand Steam tour that we are joining tomorrow. As
the name suggests, the Trust is a volunteer-staffed organization
devoted to the restoration and operation of main line steam locomotives.
At times, up to 12 steam locomotives are shedded at the workshop,
including a GMAM Garratt from South Africa. Ja1275 will be seen
undergoing a full restoration after sitting idle for over 25
years. Jb1236, one of the tour train locomotives, has recently
emerged from a 10-year extensive restoration. Also at the depot
will be Ba552, which will be featured on the tour train as well.
This is an NZ built in 1912, 4-8-0, coal burner.
The Trust currently has four restored locomotives in use: J1211, Ka942, and AB663 and Ba552, and as mentioned, Jb1236 will be returning to service after a major rebuild. These are used to haul excursion trains on all parts of the New Zealand rail system, ranging from day trips to multi-day tours.
For lunch today, we will experience some rural "kiwi" hospitality over a delicious home-cooked meal served by Raewyn and Hugh Ross, owners of an 80-acre farm currently leased to local farmers. Within their garden is a collection of magnolias and old-fashioned roses surrounded by lovely rocks and pottery; in spring the avenue of flowering cherries is a magnificent sight leading to "Cornelia Cottage" - a children's playhouse built by our host. The white doves add to the vibrancy as they fly freely through the foliage.
Not far from the Ross property is our next stop - Glenbrook Vintage Railway. This operational steam-hauled railway will take us on a 7.5-mile round trip through rural South Auckland. The Railway provides us with a nostalgic trip back to the past when steam locomotives hauled passenger trains. Hand and jigger rides are available to experience another form of rail transport. Steam and diesel locomotives, including the only Mallet Bush Steam locomotive in New Zealand, haul lovely, restored vintage wooden carriages. A visit to the workshop is included during our hosted visit.
We return to Auckland later this evening for dinner together at the Harbourside Seafood Restaurant on the waterfront in the historic ferry building.
Accommodation: Stamford Plaza, Auckland
New Zealand Mainline
Steam Tour
October 10-28, 2001
Oct. 10
AUCKLAND - ROTORUA (B,D)
Early this morning we transfer to the railway station and join
other rail enthusiasts from the UK, Europe, USA, New Zealand,
Australia and other parts of the world for the annual Mainline
Steam Tour of New Zealand. Mainline rail guides travel with us
for the duration of the Steam Tour, providing commentary and
arranging interesting photo stops, footplate rides and optional
sightseeing along the way. The train has a licensed buffet car
where refreshments, food, and souvenirs can be purchased, and
there is also an open viewing platform.
On our first day, we travel south to Hamilton and on to Rotorua. Features of today's trip include: the Waikato Plains, some of the country's most fertile cattle and sheep farming country, and the tall twin stacks of the coal burning electric power station at Huntly on the banks of the Waikato River, waters sacred to the native Maori people. We'll travel on through Ngaruawahia - home for the Maori Queen - and Hamilton, a busy commercial and agricultural city. This is a generally level route, apart from moderate grade on the Karaka bank. The line branches at Hamilton on to the East Coast Main Trunk (ECMT), where we have a flat run with minor curvature. We depart the ECMT at Waharoa and continue on to Matamata in the heart of prime dairy pasturelands. From here the line begins to climb to Putaruru and Kinleith, where a large pulp mill is situated to process timber from the surrounding giant Kinleith Forest. On return to Putaruru, we branch on to the Rotorua line, which climbs into the Mamaku Ranges through areas of native bush on gradients of 1:36 - a hard workout for a steam locomotive. There are two original brick water towers dating back to early 20th century, one in Tirau yard, and one at beginning of grade after leaving Putaruru for Rotorua.
Rotorua, center of New Zealand's indigenous Maori culture, is one of the world's most active geothermal areas. Rotorua is set in a line of live and extinct volcanoes that stretches across New Zealand's North Island. Underground there's superheated thermal activity - you can see and smell this almost immediately on arrival. We are met and transferred to our overnight accommodation.
After settling in we'll be treated to a concert of Maori song, dance and story-telling. Dinner will feature food from the traditional Maori hangi feast - cooked in the ground using the abundant natural geothermal steam and heat in this area.
Our hotel is set near Lake Rotorua and the delightful Polynesian Spa thermal pool complex. Bathing in these hot mineral baths is a wonderful way to relax while savoring the superb views out over Lake Rotorua - a perfect way to finish any day! (Open early morning until late evening). Therapeutic massages also available; admission is at your own expense.
Accommodation: Millennium Rotorua, Rotorua
Oct. 11
ROTORUA - HAMILTON (B,D)
This morning we set off to visit Rotorua's highlights. Our first
stop is the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, where
a local Maori will be our guide. See young Maori at work, learning
carving, weaving and other ancestral craft skills. We'll then
be driven by special vehicle through the Whakarewarewa thermal
valley - the shooting geysers, bubbling mud pools and steaming,
sulphurous lakes give evidence of nature's frightening, yet fascinating,
power. There's also a kiwi-house, specially designed to allow
you to view this shy, nocturnal bird. The house is part of a
kiwi-breeding program being undertaken in partnership with the
NZ Department of Conservation.
Next we head to the Agrodome, an agricultural show incorporating some 19 different breeds of New Zealand sheep on stage. It is great entertainment, but also an opportunity to learn why farming has played such a vital part in New Zealand's economy.
There may be some time at leisure to look around Rotorua City or waterfront on your own before rejoining the Steam Tour this afternoon. As we backtrack, our train makes the severe climb out of Rotorua on 1:36 gradient until the Mamaku Saddle is reached, then downhill to Putaruru and the level run to Hamilton, where we stay the night. Enjoy dinner at our hotel this evening.
Accommodation: Novotel Tainui Hotel, Hamilton
Oct. 12
HAMILTON - OHAKUNE (B,D)
Today's rail journey begins with
an undulating run from Hamilton to Te Kuiti, after which the
line climbs to the Porootarao Tunnel with moderate to severe
curvature. The Waiteti viaduct is crossed just after departing
Te Kuiti. A downhill run to Taumarunui, the site of major locomotive
depot in steam days, is followed by a level run for 3 miles out
of Taumarunui, a moderate climb from Piriaka to Kakahi and a
heavy climb from there to Owhango. We enjoy some nice bush and
river scenery today. Our tracks make the moderate climb to the
bottom of the famous Raurimu spiral and then we begin the 1:50
climb up the spiral to National Park, the second highest station
in New Zealand, with mountain views of Tongariro National Park
on this central North Island volcanic plateau. We then make a
downhill run to Ohakune, the site of another major locomotive
depot in steam days. We cross several high viaducts after leaving
National Park. This is a day of steady work for our train - from
Taumarunui to National Park the line climbs 1800 feet in 16 miles.
Our hotel is situated at the base of Mt. Ruapehu, a live volcano which spectacularly erupted in 1996, showering the surrounding areas with a thin layer of ash and disrupting air traffic over the central north island. The sleeping giant also has several ski fields on its slopes; it will be skiing season when we visit. The Powderhorn Chateau has been uniquely designed and developed to provide a relaxed social environment in one of New Zealand's most spectacular alpine areas. It has all the ingredients of a traditional ski chalet, with large open fireplaces and a warm and friendly atmosphere, offering the closest accommodation to Turoa Skifield. We'll enjoy dinner at this lovely hotel this evening.
Accommodation: Powderhorn Chateau, Ohakune
Oct. 13
OHAKUNE - NEW PLYMOUTH (B,D)
This morning we retrace our journey
with a heavy climb from Ohakune to National Park, down Raurimu
Spiral, then on to Taumarunui, where the route branches onto
the Stratford to Okahukura line into the depths of the King Country
and Taranaki. There are 24 tunnels on this section, with severe
gradients and curvature. The line travels through areas of native
bush; the King Country is a region of great spiritual significance
to both the Maori people and New Age followers. The dormant volcanic
Mt. Taranaki (8261 ft.) is spectacularly visible on a fine day
as we approach our destination, the city of New Plymouth.
The mild air coming off the Tasman Sea has blessed New Plymouth with an ideal growing climate; the region has many impressive parks and gardens with the symmetrical profile of Mt. Taranaki always at hand. Some of the best gardens are situated on the slopes of the mountain and, because of the alpine micro climate, feature grand plots of rhododendrons, camellias and other species originating in such far off places as the Himalayas.
The surrounding land forms one of New Zealand's most productive dairy districts. The port of New Plymouth was reputedly once the world's largest exporter of cheese. New Plymouth used to be the site of several Maori Pas including Paritutu, the prominent peak next to the port. Today the city is an important provincial center boosted in recent years by the growth of the oil, gas and petro-chemical industries in the region specifically geared around the huge drilling rigs offshore.
Accommodation: The Devon Hotel, New Plymouth
Oct. 14
NEW PLYMOUTH - PALMERSTON NORTH (B,D)
The 5th day of our steam journey is a pleasant run through to
Palmerston North - undulating country with areas of moderate
to severe curvature and short steep climbs. We make a 1:33 descent
of the Westmere Bank near East Town, originally the site of major
workshops that have since been demolished. The train may stop
to provide an opportunity to ride on a restored paddle steamer
on the Wanganui River (optional and at own expense). Our train
passes through one notable tunnel, the Turakina, 1.2 miles in
length, and a major locomotive depot and marshalling yard on
our way into Palmerston North. Today and tomorrow we may catch
a glimpse of some of the large dedicated Milk Trains that also
use this route.
The city of Palmerston
North was first settled about 1870 and is situated on the bank
of the Manawatu River. Palmerston North serves as a center for
the surrounding farming areas as well as boasting research facilities
for grasslands, seed testing, artificial breeding and dairying.
The region is also well known for breeding champion racehorses.
The city is home to Massey University, the most progressive university
in New Zealand, noted for its excellence in agricultural studies.
The central district of the Palmerston North is noted for its
"Square," containing 17.3 acres of gardens (which composed
the railway until 1963).
Enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.
Accommodation: Quality Hotel, Palmerston North
Oct. 15
PALMERSTON NORTH - NAPIER (B,D)
Today, our rail trip is a relatively short one, travelling north
through the spectacular narrow Manawatu Gorge and over several
viaducts between Dannevirke and Kopua, the highest being 128
ft. We arrive at Napier on the Pacific coastline. The city is
the main center for the wine and fruit growing industry that
thrives in the warm, dry Hawkes Bay climate. The region is an
important producer of sheep wool and meat, but has been hard-hit
by severe drought in recent years. However, Napier is fast gaining
an international reputation for its award-winning wines.
Napier is no stranger to surviving through difficult times. In 1931, a violent earthquake and subsequent fires destroyed most of the heart of Napier and killed 256 people. Napier's harbor sustained a massive upheaval, forming 9,884 acres of new land for development. Nowhere else can you see such a variety of buildings in the styles of the 1930s Stripped Classical, Spanish Mission and above all Art Deco in such a concentrated area. Napier's Art Deco style is unique with its Maori motifs and the buildings of Louis Hay.
This afternoon we have a chance to appreciate the bold rebuilding and savor the spirit of the optimistic Art Deco area with a walking tour of the central city. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. The arts have played a major role in the establishment of Hawkes Bay. Wander among the antique shops and art galleries, or visit the studios of local artists, potters and wood turners - ceramics, glass, and sculpture too. There are parks and gardens to be explored, and a golf course if you feel like a round.
This evening, regroup and venture out to Te Awa Farm Winery, best known for its production of quality Merlot base red wines and elegant Chardonnays. You have an opportunity to tour the winery and taste some wines before enjoying a sumptuous dinner at the hands of an award-winning chef.
Our hotel is situated on the oceanfront. Marine Parade and the Esplanade are lined with Norfolk Pines decorated with brightly colored lights, which make an impressive sight by night.
Accommodation: Napier Travel Inn, Napier
Oct. 16
GISBORNE DAY EXCUSION (B)
Today the train makes a trip to neighboring Gisborne and back.
Shortly after departing Napier, we make a challenging ascent
of the Esk Valley on sharp curvature. We pass over six high viaducts
between Waikoua and Waihua, including New Zealand's highest -
the Mohaka at 318 ft. Near Gisborne, the line travels through
a group of 9 tunnels, the longest being 1.8 miles. Enjoy the
coastal scenery at Beach Loop before returning to Napier.
This evening is at leisure and dinner is on your own. Perhaps this may be the perfect opportunity to take a stroll along the Esplanade and dine downtown.
Accommodation: Napier Travel Inn, Napier
Oct. 17
NAPIER - WELLINGTON (B,D)
Day 8 of our steam tour takes us south to Woodville before we
branch on to the Wairarapa Line via the Balloon Loop. Our featured
stop today is an optional visit to the Fell Locomotive Museum
at Featherston. This museum houses one of the six special locomotives
used for 77 years on the Rimutaka Incline. The locomotive has
been restored superficially (not steamable) and is mounted on
plummer blocks so that the wheels can be electrically driven
to show the value gear in motion. This class of locomotive (H
class) is unique in design: there is one steam engine which propels
the driving wheels, and another engine mounted underneath, which
has horizontal driving wheels that grip the center rail in order
to gain more adhesion and climb the 1:11 incline. There is also
a scale model of the incline and other artifacts.
Our train continues through
the 5.5 mile Rimutaka Tunnel to Wellington, New Zealand's Capital,
a truly energetic, cosmopolitan city on the shore of a glistening
harbor. The city is surrounded by the rugged beauty of green
hills, and has the most spectacular skyline of all major cities
in New Zealand - a result of major high-rise construction. The
rapid modern growth has not, however, been at the expense of
the older buildings in and around the city. Even today, the strong
Victorian influence is testimony to Wellington's early establishment
as the country's center of political life. Of particular note
is the "Government Building," the second largest timber
building in the world, built in 1876. Next door is the more modern
"Beehive" building, home for New Zealand's parliament
and recently established MMP style of government.
This evening we enjoy dinner at The Tugboat Restaurant on the
waterfront.
Accommodation: James Cook Centre, Wellington
Oct. 18
WELLINGTON - PICTON - BLENHEIM (B,D)
This morning is at leisure in Wellington. Optional sightseeing
and other excursions will be offered. These offerings may include:
Silver Stream Railway
at Upper Hutt, which restores and operates steam locomotives
including Ka 935 and vintage railcars at Silverstream in the
Hutt Valley.
The Kelburn Cable Car operates daily between Lambton Quay in
Wellington's city center and Upland Road. Society members who
visited two years ago enjoyed this jaunt. Kelburn was and is
one of the city's earliest forms of transport.
Optional city tours which include such highlights as: The Botanical
Gardens featuring the Begonia House and Rose Garden in early
spring 
bloom; Victoria University; The
"Beehive" and Parliament Buildings; old St. Paul Church;
Mt. Victoria and Cook Strait.
Tapa (meaning "our place"). Leading up to its opening
in February 1998, Te Papa was the biggest national museum project
anywhere in the world. Set on the magnificent Wellington waterfront
and using an exciting combination of displays and leading edge
technology, Te Papa brings to life the stories of the people
who live in New Zealand.
This afternoon, the Steam Tour regroups and our train, its engine, service cars and buffet car, will be loaded onto a large, ocean-going ferry for the three-hour passage to Picton at the North end of the South Island. Landing at the picturesque waterfront town of Picton, a motorcoach will transport us on the 30-minute journey to Blenheim. Blenheim, considered Napier's southern counterpart, is the sunniest city in the South Island and produces world-class, award-winning wines and a range of pip and stone fruit. Dinner will be at our hotel this evening.
Accommodation: Blenheim Country Lodge, Blenheim
Oct. 19
BLENHEIM - CHRISTCHURCH (B,D)
We rejoin our train this morning and head south, climbing over
Dashwood Pass at a gradient of 1:50 and down past the Grassmere
Salt Works. Soon the tracks are running beside the Pacific Ocean,
with magnificent seascapes all the way to the small town of Kaikoura.
This section, hemmed between the snow-capped Kaikoura ranges
on one side and the Pacific on the other, is the most scenic
coastal rail journey in New Zealand.
Our train will likely make a lunch stop at Kaikoura before continuing south. Kaikoura is a small coastal town with a resident fishing fleet and a colorful history, and is famous for its crayfish or lobster. A little further south the coastline has yielded some exciting and highly significant sea-mammal fossil discoveries. This stretch of coast is also unique in that the continental shelf extends only a few miles offshore, then plunges thousands of feet to the ocean floor below. Rich upwellings of plankton, krill and other marine organisms provide a rich feeding ground for Sperm whales, migratory Humpback whales (June and July), Orca (summer months), New Zealand's tiny Hector's dolphin, and the Dusky dolphin. Fur seals and Royal Albatross also frequent the area.
We pass through several rail tunnels in order to skirt the steep rocky coastline before heading inland through river valleys. We'll emerge onto North Canterbury farmlands and the flat plains that characterize the run through to Christchurch.
The City of Christchurch started out as a pioneer church settlement established by settlers who braved the long, hazardous voyage by sailing ships from England and other parts of Europe. Before dinner this evening we'll hear a storyteller recount what it was like to leave the old world and travel to life in the new lands. Centered around a cathedral and hemmed by a square of avenues, Christchurch still displays its delightfully English character. There's a special enthusiasm on the streets: a love of fine architecture, a passion for scented blooms, towering trees and parkland. The City recently won a prestigious International Garden City award. There's also a fondness for the ornate trams, which have made a welcome return after 40 years. The Canterbury Museum, with its Antarctic display and the renowned Botanical Gardens, lies just a short stroll from the hotel - well worth a visit at this time of year! Cafés and restaurants are many and varied. Evening theatre and the Arts Center lie at the heart of this "most English City outside England."
This evening we drive up onto the Port Hills overlooking Christchurch - the same hills that the early settlers trudged over from the Port of Lyttleton to reach their new settlements on the Canterbury Plains. The Sign of the Takahe roadhouse was built on these hills to offer shelter and lodging to the settlers on their walk over from the Port. It is here that we will enjoy dinner while glimpsing the sun setting behind the snow-capped Southern Alps in the west, with the city lights below us.
Accommodation: Rydges Christchurch, Christchurch
Oct. 20
CHRISTCHURCH - GREYMOUTH (B,D)
Another spectacular rail journey
awaits us today: the Trans Alpine, world renowned as "The
Great New Zealand Rail Adventure," and the main rail attraction
on the South Island. This route crosses the mountainous spire
of the country at Arthur's Pass, elevation 2,063 feet. Today
we will we steam up and follow in its tracks, setting out west
across the vast fertile patchwork of farmlands known as the Canterbury
Plains, which stretch between the Pacific coast and the base
of the Southern Alps.
It's a slightly uphill climb all the way to the small village of Springfield, site of a major locomotive depot in steam days. Here our gradient increases as we climb through the foothills of the Alps. With gradients ranging from 1:70 to 1:50, the train winds its way over viaducts, through spectacular gorges and river valleys, and through a total of 16 tunnels to reach the settlement of Arthur's Pass in a National Park by the same name.
The prevailing westerly weather systems that bring generally warm, dry weather to the east bring heavy rainfall to the mountains at Arthur's Pass and westward. You can note the distinct change of scenery and vegetation - the dry hills giving way to dense beech forest. Arthur's Pass offers a wild wilderness of boulder-strewn riverbeds, forested valleys and striking alpine peaks popular with hikers and climbers. At this time of year, heavy snowfalls can still blanket the Alps and the track. We may make a lunch stop at the village with time to explore the Visitors Center before reboarding the train and entering the 1:35, 5.34 mile Otira Tunnel. This magnificent engineering feat was accomplished in the early 1900s by teams of hardy laborers using picks, shovels and dynamite. The tunnel, which opened in 1923, bores its way through the Main Divide of the Alps and emerges on the West Coast. Until recently, electric locomotives were used to take trains through the tunnel; they have now been superseded by diesel locomotives. The main rail traffic on this line is massive coal trains transporting west coast coal to Lyttleton near Christchurch for export. Several of these trains should be seen today or tomorrow on our return journey through the Alps.
Green pastures, old mining towns, weathered farm houses, "rickety" homebuilt fences and rain - lots of it! - are trademarks of the West Coast. Modernization has come slowly and "Coasters" are well known for their hardy, determined, and practical-minded approach to life that was characteristic of their forebears.
Our journey travels past Lake Brunner; the flax bushes and bare tree trunks at the water's edge, and tall dense native forests are typical of the wild West Coast. Our destination is Greymouth, a predominantly coal- mining and saw-milling district and the largest town on the West Coast. Its port was developed in the 1860s, following the discovery of gold in the area. Water transport was very important at this time, and the first coal exported was brought down the Grey River in canoes to the port. Now the port serves as haven and base for a coastal fishing fleet trawling, crayfishing, and lying set lines in the rich fishing grounds off the West Coast. Sudden storms, high seas and floods on the Grey Rivers allow only the hardiest and most skilled fishermen to make their livelihood from these waters.
You will have some time at leisure later this afternoon to explore Greymouth on your own. Optional tours of the region may also be offered. Dinner will be at the hotel.
Accommodation: Quality Hotel Kings, Greymouth
Oct. 21
GREYMOUTH - CHRISTCHURCH (B)
Today we retrace the Trans Alpine route back to Christchurch
- an exciting trip we're taking as a result of past travelers'
evaluations. IRT members suggested that we take the route both
ways since the journey from West to East presents quite a different
perspective - a distinct scenery contrast to yesterday's trip.
We return to the hotel and have the evening at leisure. You may
want to spend it dining at one of the superb cafés on
the strip beside the hotel, overlooking the Avon River.
Accommodation: Rydges Christchurch, Christcurch
Oct. 22
CHRISTCHURCH (B)
Today is at your leisure. You may wish to take a punt ride down
the Avon River, stroll through the Botanical Gardens or Museum
nearby, or perhaps do a little shopping. Lunch and dinner are
on your own today.
Optional tours may be
offered/arranged to such rail sites as:
The Ferrymead Historic Park -
originally site of ferry which began operating in 1850, taking
Canterbury's early settlers across the Heathcote River during
their travels between the port of Lyttelton and the new settlement
of Christchurch. Today, the Ferrymead Historic Park consists
of an Edwardian township and an exhibition area. The township
contains a church, chapel, schoolhouse, print shop, barber, bakery,
solicitor's office, the Magic Lantern Theatre, drapery, three
cottages, two residential houses, Police House and Jail, photography
studio, the Heathcote Studios, a railway station, railway running
sheds, a blacksmith, livery stables, post and telegraph office,
bootmaker, cooperage and sawmill. The exhibition contains: the
largest fire museum in Australasia, an aeronautical museum, the
Hall of Wheels and a model railway display. At Bridle Path Rd,
the park also has a Tram Barn, Sound Museum and active radio
station - 3XP. The Ferrymead Railway is a project of the Canterbury
Railway Society, which restores and operates steam locomotives
and vintage railcars at the site of the first section of New
Zealand's railway system. The Ferrymead Tramway restores and
operates electric and horse-drawn trams.
McLean's Island Railway on the western outskirts of the city
recreates a bush tramway typical of the type operated on the
West Coast of the South Island.
Weka Pass Railways is a historic rural railway using both vintage
steam and diesel-electric locomotives on an 8-mile route through
unique limestone beauty of the Weka Pass in North Canterbury.
Further information on optional rail visits will be available
at a later date.
Accommodation: Rydges Christchurch, Christcurch
Oct. 23
CHRISTCHURCH - DUNEDIN (B,D)
Today is our final day on the
Steam Tour as we rejoin our friends for the trip south over the
Canterbury Plains. The Alps are visible to the west, and we cross
several long bridges, including the Rakaia. At one mile, it is
the longest in NZ. The Rakaia River is typical of the braided
shingle riverbeds that drain the snowmelt and rainfall from the
Southern Alps to the ocean. These rivers form the migration route
for the huge pacific salmon returning to their home headwaters
in the alpine foothills to spawn before dying. We pass through
the port city of Timaru, then quickly on to Oamaru, a coastal
farming center situated on the 45th Parallel, halfway between
the Equator and the South Pole. Once a whaling station, it is
now well-known for its Oamaru Stone, a white building stone which
has been used for many of the historic buildings seen in the
town. Continue on to Palmerston, which in gold-mining days was
one of the main points of entry to the diggings of Central Otago.
From Palmerston we encounter slower traveling with steep gradients
and curvature as the line hangs on to rock cliffs above Blueskin
Bay. Late this afternoon we arrive at Dunedin, "Edinburgh
of the South," where our IRT group bids farewell to other
Steam Tour travelers whose tour will soon end. We join our coach
and driver in preparation for the remainder of our New Zealand
tour, two fine rail excursions and some of the most famous and
scenic parts of the beautiful South Island to places where no
trains travel.
Dunedin is a city first settled by Scots, which today retains many of its Scottish traditions. During the gold rush era of the late 19th century, Dunedin was the main banking center for this very wealthy province of Otago. The city has a charm all of its own as well as a distinct student flavor during the academic year, as it is home to Otago University, with its distinguished medical, dental and theological facilities. Nearby Otago Peninsula is well known for its wildlife; here one can encounter seal colonies, blue- and yellow-eyed penguins, and over 10 species of nesting birds, including the northern Royal albatross. Each season, these magnificent birds migrate between here and sub-Antarctic regions. Nowhere else in the world does the albatross nest so close to civilization as it does at this strictly protected and managed colony on Taiaroa Heads.
Brewing beer is also part of Dunedin's rich heritage, and this evening we enjoy a factory tour of Speights Brewery, learning of the company's fascinating history over the past century and the intricate processes involved in making award-winning beers. Taste these for yourself then move on to The Alehouse for a sumptuous dinner and a taste of renowned southern hospitality.
Accommodation: Southern Cross Hotel, Dunedin
Oct. 24
(B,D) DUNEDIN - LUMSDEN: Taieri Gorge Limited
Today we join the Taieri Gorge Excursion train, an award-winning
tourist railway running more than 30 miles up the Taieri River,
through the spectacular Taieri Gorge, a stunning natural area
reached only by rail. We depart from the stately Dunedin Railway
Station, rumored to be the most-photographed building in New
Zealand. The station, a monument to Edwardian architecture built
at the turn of last century, boasts many stunning features, including
Royal Doulton mosaic tile floors and intricate stained glass
windows. In addition to a restaurant, the Railway Station houses
the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame!
We travel 36 miles to Pukerangi on the Taieri Gorge Limited, a diesel hauled train including carriages with skylights and panoramic windows and older heritage carriages built early last century. New Zealand Rail abandoned the line in 1990 and sold it to a preservation trust. Included in the deal were five diesel locomotives and about 14 vintage carriages. The trust has stripped the wood framing off three older cars and made new, steel bodies with modern, plush interiors. We return along the same route where we will have had photo stops and informative commentary on the outward journey. At its highest point, the railway reaches 833 ft. above sea-level and features steep ravines, unique schist rock formations, Victorian era viaducts and an interesting diversity of plant and animal life. Refreshments can be purchased on board during this enjoyable trip.
Back at Dunedin Railway Station, we rejoin our coach and depart the city traveling south over some of New Zealand's finest pastureland. We pass through the farming centers of Milton and Balclutha and onto large town of Gore, whose hills were once notorious for illicit whisky stills. Further west we reach Lumsden in the late afternoon.
It's here that we rendezvous with local farmers - our hosts for an overnight "farm stay." "Kiwis" are renowned for their warm hospitality - none better than Southlanders. IRT members on our last New Zealand journey found this to be a highlight of their experience. They each had different, wonderful stories to tell. We split into small groups and head to individual farms, which may be raising sheep, cattle or deer. If you wish, take a walk around the property with your host, learn about farm life, and perhaps join in with some of the activities and tasks. Enjoy a hearty home-cooked dinner featuring some classic New Zealand specialties and a relaxed evening together before retiring for the night. Our rooms will normally have private ensuite facilities or a bathroom just for guest use.
Accommodation: Lumsden Farmstays, Lumsden
Oct. 25
LUMSDEN - MILFORD SOUND (B,D)
After a hearty, home-cooked breakfast we bid farewell to our
hosts and regroup on the coach. Our route continues westward,
climbing all the time, as evidenced by the gradual change in
landscape and vegetation. We travel through tussock-covered hills,
taking in magnificent views of the mountains of Fjordland National
Park to the north, south and west. Traveling a few miles more,
the wide panorama of Lake Te Anau comes into view. Fjordland
is home to some of the most remote, inaccessible and beautiful
wilderness in New Zealand. Our drive takes us along the shores
of the lake, then deep into the National Park, through the breathtaking
Eglinton and Hollyford Valleys with some superb photo stops along
the way. We pass through the Homer Tunnel, sometimes closed by
avalanches, which bores through the mountain to emerge in the
Cleddau Canyon. We then descend to our destination, Milford Sound,
reminiscent of the fjords of Norway.
As one of our members put it
on his evaluation: "The cruise at Milford Sound is a must.
It's a 10!" We step aboard the Milford Mariner for a journey
IRT past travelers have said should not be missed. Designed along
the lines of a traditional trading scow to reflect Fjordland's
heritage, an overnight cruise on the Milford Mariner offers us
a very special dinner and bed and breakfast experience. During
our cruise along the 10-mile waterway we'll view the cascading
Bowen and Stirling Falls, the sparkling glacier of Mount Pembroke
and mile-high Mitre Peak towering above us. The scenery is breathtaking
and a full commentary on the natural history of the Sound is
provided. Later we anchor for the night in sheltered Harrison
Cove. There is plenty of time to explore in the vessel's kayaks
and tender vessels or relax on deck as the southern twilight
deepens. After dinner, passengers can socialize in the observation
lounge before retiring to private cabins, each with twin beds
and en-suite toilet and shower.
Accommodation: Milford Mariner, Milford Sound
Oct. 26
MILFORD SOUND - QUEENSTOWN (B)
After
breakfast this morning, the vessel weighs anchor and cruises
back to the Milford Wharf where we rejoin the coach and retrace
our route back to Lumsden turning north for the small settlement
of Fairlight. It's here that we board the 938-horsepower Kingston
Flyer. Set in spectacular mountain scenery, the train is a splendid
example of New Zealand's heavy engineering skills. The coal-fired
locomotives and cars were all built around the turn of last century
in the New Zealand Government Railways-owned workshops at Christchurch
and Dunedin. The Kingston Flyer now consists of two AB class
Pacific locomotives dating back to 1925 and seven wooden vintage
carriages, all dating around the turn of the century - the oldest
being the Gallery, or Birdcage, carriage built in 1898.
The original Kingston Flyer was a passenger service based in Kingston traveling to and from Gore, meeting the lake steamers, designed to provide a passageway to Queenstown and the surrounding stations. Today, the Kingston Flyer operates on an 8.7-mile stretch of track between Fairlight and Kingston at the Southern end of Lake Wakatipu. We make the enjoyable 30-minute run beside the lake and under the lee of the mighty Remarkables mountain range. Our destination is Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in a stunningly beautiful alpine setting. Conde Nast Travelers has rated it in the top 20 cities of the world for its natural beauty - surrounded by mountains and water - and fantastic range of activities available. Enjoy dinner on your own tonight at one of the many restaurants in the city.
Accommodation: Queenstown Parkroyal, Queenstown
Oct. 27
QUEENSTOWN AT LEISURE (B,D)
Today is at leisure in Queenstown, until we meet together for
our farewell dinner.
Highly recommended by Society
members and IRT contributing editor Ted Scull, is a leisurely
cruise on the TSS Earnslaw. IRT member and 1999 NZ tour participant
Bill Franz of Sarasota called it "a historical gem."
The Earnslaw, launched in 1912 as part of the railway's service
from Kingston up Lake Wakatipus and beyond, is a twin screw steamer
with a steel hull which was hauled in pre-fabricated sections
from the coast. It serviced the high country sheep stations surrounding
the lake. Take time to explore the Earnslaw's three decks, view
the engine room and visit the bridge or simply delight in spectacular
views of the surrounding hills and peaks while steaming to Walter
Peak Sheep Station. Gain insight into rural New Zealand life
with a brief tour of the property and a country-style morning
tea dinner at the Colonel's Homestead. The farm tour includes
a sheep shearing and sheep dog demonstration.
Queenstown is breathtakingly beautiful and a playground for all seasons. Beside bungee jumping, other options range from jetboating and rafting, to paragliding and the latest: "canyoning" - rappelling and sliding down waterfalls! You needn't opt for such a rush of excitement - there are 4WD excursions, golf, trout fishing, mountain biking or hiking along alpine and lake trails as gentle or as challenging as you like. There are craft galleries and a range of other shopping - plus lots of café and restaurant options, all within a short walk of our centrally located hotel.
This evening, our last in New Zealand, we regroup for a special farewell dinner at the King George V Bathhouse, one of Queenstown's most popular dining attractions. Once upon a time Queenstown had a fine bathhouse, built right on the peaceful shores of Lake Wakatipu to commemorate the coronation of King George V. In its heyday it boasted two diving platforms and the wings were used as changing rooms for bathers. However, by the late 1980's, following several floods and neglect, it was due for demolition. The Department of Conservation and the Historic Places Trust stepped in and renovated the bathhouse, raising it and replacing damaged sections. Now lovingly restored, the "Coronation Bathhouse" has returned to its former grandeur as a charming restaurant and cafe. This evening we'll enjoy superb food and a cozy conservatory feel, with the glass and metal furniture and breathtaking views across the waters of the lake. Walter Peak basks in light of dusk, the historic steamer 'TSS Earnslaw' puffs purposefully across the lake, boats bob in the gentle breeze - simply a superb setting and wonderful way in which to celebrate the end of our tour and last evening together.
Accommodation: Queenstown Parkroyal, Queenstown
Oct. 28
QUEENSTOWN AUCKLAND (B,D)
After a leisurely breakfast, we will transfer to the Queenstown
airport for our 12:20 p.m. connecting flight to Auckland. Our
direct international flight, Air New Zealand #6, is scheduled
to depart at 6 p.m. today, arriving at 9 a.m. the same day in
LAX for connecting flights home. We say goodbye to one another
- until next time!
Included in this journey:
- Mainline Steam Tour
rail-only
- Services of full-time NZ Tour Director throughout
- All gratuities for all included meals and tours and other services,
including that of driver and Tur Director
- Accommodation and meals as specified
- Cruises, excursions, admissions, and other inclusions as specified
- Air-conditioned touring coaches in Auckland and on special
South Island touring portions
- NZ departure Tax
- Inter-island ferry travel ticket
- Airport departure assistance
- 12.5% Goods and Services Tax
- Medtrip Medical Information and Evacuation Service
- Name badges and luggage tags
- Complete pre-tour documentation
- Map of New Zealand
Not included:
- Optional sightseeing
- Airfare
- Costs of obtaining passports
- Meals not specified
- Items of personal nature such as wine or beverages, toll calls,
laundry charges
Cost of the Tour
Save up to $800 per couple, $400 Single occupancy if booked before March 26!
| Main Tour: | Book Before 3/26/02 | After 3/26/02: |
| Double: | $4,792 | $4,992 |
| Single supplement: | $865 | $1,065 |
| Optional Pre-tour | ||
| Double: | $565 | $765 |
| Single supplement: | $285 | $485 |
Above prices are for IRT members only. Non-members add $50 more per person.
Group Air - includes international round-trip and one inter-island flight within NZ:
LAX-Auckland/Queenstown-Auckland-LAX
Coach: $1,414 plus tax
Business Class: $6,432 plus tax
Details: Air New Zealand flight #1 departs LAX October 6 at 9:30 p.m., arriving Oct. 8 LAX-Auckland. Air New Zealand flight #6 departs October 28 Auckland-LAX after early- afternoon connecting jet service from Queenstown to Auckland.
Both international segments are direct flights. Equipment is scheduled to be 747-400, Air NZ's newest equipment with 3-4-3 seating in coach and 2-3-2 seating in business class downstairs and 2-2 seating in business class on the upper deck. We have blocked aisle and "next to" seats for 20 passengers. To guarantee this air fare, reserve your journey by March 26 and pay in full 90 days before departure. Please note airport transfers are included only for those on group flight. Please note: business class passengers can obtain seat assignments right away. Coach class get seat assignments at time of ticketing, usually 60 days before departure. We must have at least 10 passengers total for this discounted rate. Once ticketed, they are non-refundable.
If you wish for a deviation, such as to stop at an island on departure or return, or to travel to Australia, for two examples, please ask for an add-on rate.
Tour Conditions
How to Book: Call our tour desk at 1-800-IRT-4881 to make a reservation. A deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required. Deposits can be made by check or credit card (Mastercard, Visa, or Discover). Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis. Final payment is made by check 90 days before departure.
Passport: A valid passport is required, valid for six months after departure from U.S.
Cancellations: Notice of cancellations must be received by this office in writing before 90 days prior to departure and are subject to a $250 per-person administrative fee. Final payment is due 90 days before the trip. Cancellations occurring within 90 days prior to the trip are nonrefundable unless the space is resold. In the event the space is resold, a refund, equal to the resale value of the space, is made after deduction of the $250 per person administrative fee and applicable airline cancellation penalties. No refunds will be made in the event of "no-shows" or cancellations the day of the trip. No refund will be given for unused portions of the tour. No refund for airline tickets once issued.
Insurance: We highly recommend that all passengers protect themselves with tour insurance to cover your costs in case you must cancel your journey. We will send you a brochure upon confirmation of your reservation. Please note: in order to waive pre-existing medical conditions exclusions in the tour insurance, insurance must be post-marked within ten days of date of deposit.
Minimum Participants: The tour must have at least 15 passengers in order to qualify for special group rates.
Prices: This tour price is based on currency exchange rates in effect at the time of printing. In the event of revaluation or devaluation of U.S. currency, the tour operator reserves the right to make adjustments.
Price does not include: Passport and visa fees; personal expenses such as laundry; telephone calls; meals and alcoholic beverages not listed in the included section; optional sightseeing excursions; services other than those specifically mentioned in the included section; accident; sickness, trip cancellation and baggage insurance; and excess baggage charges. Please note that transfers and baggage handling to/from airport included only if traveling with the IRT group on its group flight.
Medical: Any physical or mental condition which may require special attention must be reported in writing. All Society trips require some walking to take full advantage of the transportation systems of each country we visit.
Baggage: Baggage and personal effects are taken at owner's risk throughout the trip and baggage insurance is strongly recommended. Please note that baggage limitations vary from country to country, depending on where The Society travels. In general, porterage of one larger bag is included from hotel to hotel. When traveling to countries where IRT offers group flights, porterage and transfer is included from the airport to hotel and vice versa. When not traveling with IRT's group flights, this is not included. Passengers will be expected to abide by the stated baggage number and weight limits specified in pre-tour documents.
Responsibility: The Society of International Railway Travelers, Inc. (IRT) and Hardy Publishing Co., Inc. (HPC), parent company of The Society of International Railway Travelers, act only as agents for the passenger with respect to travel services. IRT and HPC do not own or operate any of the suppliers of services or accommodations for your trip. As a result, IRT and HPC are not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any such supplier of any other third party over whom IRT and HPC has no control.
We can assume no responsibility nor liability in whole or in part for any delays, delayed or changed departure or arrival, missed carrier connections, loss, damage, weather, strikes, acts of God, circumstances beyond our control, force majeure, war, quarantine, criminal activity, expense, accident, sickness, injury or death to person or property, or mechanical defect, failure, or negligence of any nature howsoever caused in connection with any accommodations, restaurant, transportation or other services, for any substitution of hotels or of common carrier equipment beyond our control, with or without notice, or for any additional expenses occasioned thereby. If due to weather, flight schedules or other uncontrollable factors you are required to spend an additional night, you will be responsible for your own hotel, transfers and meal costs. No refund will be made for any unused portion of the tour due to these causes or voluntary cancellations. Baggage is at the owner's risk entirely.
No revisions of the printed itinerary or the "included" section are anticipated; however, IRT and HPC reserve the right to make changes at any time and for any reason, with or without notice, and IRT and HPC shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever to passengers by reason of such cancellation, substitution or changes. All fares as well as ship and train schedules, port calls, hours of arrival and departure, special programs, and guest lecture series (if applicable), are subject to change without prior notice. IRT and HPC shall not be required to refund any portion of the fare or make any other compensation under these circumstances. IRT and HPC cannot be responsible for penalties assessed by air carriers that may result due to operational and/or itinerary changes, regardless if the passenger and/or IRT and HPC make the flight arrangements. Any additional expenses resulting from the above will be paid by the individual passenger. IRT and HPC reserve the right to substitute a similar category for those listed in this brochure. IRT and HPC reserve the right to increase the tour price in the event of cost increases due to changes in air fares, changes in the itinerary, currency fluctuations or fuel surcharges and such increases are to be paid to IRT and HPC by the tour participant upon notice to the tour participant of such increases.
When issued, the air tickets shall constitute the sole contract between the air company concerned and the purchaser of these tours and/or passenger. Please note that advertised air rates can change before ticketing. The airlines and other transportation companies concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission, or events during the time passengers are not on board their conveyances.
By forwarding of deposit or final payment by either check or credit card, the passenger certifies that he/she does not have any mental, physical or other condition of disability that would create a hazard for him/herself or other passengers and accepts the terms of this contract. IRT and HPC reserves the right to decline to accept or retain any person as a tour member should such a person's health, mental condition, physical infirmity or attitude jeopardize the operation of the tour or the rights, welfare, or enjoyment of other participants.
Behavior: Passengers are expected to behave in a reasonable manner toward other passengers, IRT personnel and other persons with whom we have contact during our tour. If a passenger behaves, in the opinion of our tour leader, in a way likely to disrupt the enjoyment or endanger the safety of other passengers, the tour leader will issue him with a verbal warning. Should this not resolve the matter, a second, written warning will be issued. If the disruptive behavior continues after the second warning, then the passenger will be removed from the tour and will have to make his own arrangements to return home. No refunds for the untraveled portion of the tour will be entertained. The right is retained to refuse any application for reservation(s), cancel any reservation(s) or decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the tour group at any time.
Acceptance of terms: Upon payment of a deposit, by either check or credit card, tour participants indicate acceptance of all stated IRT and HPC terms and conditions.
Optional Activities that may be Dangerous: Depending on the itinerary you have selected, optional activities furnished by independent suppliers will be available at some of the places you will visit. Some of these activities carry with them the inherent risk of serious personal injury. These activities include, but are not necessarily limited to: walking safaris; horseback /elephant back/camel safaris; canoe trips, white-water rafting and river cruises; hot-air balloon trips and gorilla-tracking on foot; steam engine foot-plate rides, cab rides or photo run-bys; helicopter rides scuba diving; shark diving; boat rides. You should be aware that your safety cannot be guaranteed. Should you elect to participate in such activities while you are on tour, you are of course, free to do so. However, you must understand that such participation will be at your own risk, and that The Society of International Railway Travelers, Inc. assumes no responsibility for your safety.
Complaints: The stated mission of The Society
of International Railway Travelers is to offer the very best
in rail travel around the globe for our members. However, if
you have a complaint during your journey, please bring it to
the attention to your tour leader as quickly as you can. Should
the problem remain unsolved, please write to the Society at its
main office at 1810 Sils Ave., Louisville, KY). Our desire is
to set things right. We cannot accept liability for any claims
not made to us in writing within two months of completion of
your journey. We also cannot tender any refunds for any reason
outside the terms set forth above. All claims will be settled
by arbitration in Louisville, Kentucky.
Please call us with questions, bookings:
800-IRT-4881
www.irtsociety.com
AOE Pacific Coast Explorer
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Austria
Mexico
New Zealand
Royal Canadian Pacific
South Africa
Switzerland
Trans-Caucasian Express
