The Taieri Gorge Railway is a scenic way to travel to Pukerangi and Middlemarch in Central Otago, or return to Dunedin on the same day for a relaxing and interesting day out. Along the way, hear live commentary narrating the history of the area, including exciting stories from the Otago Gold Rush. The observation carriage allows for the best views—just keep your arms in as you pass through tunnels that were built by hand more than 100 years ago.
Visitors can enjoy a ride on the Taieri Gorge Railway on its own or as part of a day of sightseeing in and around Dunedin. Combined day trips often include a tour of Dunedin city or a trip to spot wildlife out on the Otago Peninsula.
The railway travels 72 miles (116 kilometers).
Trains have a dining cart on board, and you can even order a packed picnic box (or bring your own).
The railway links up with the Otago Rail Trail cycle route through Central Otago, and it’s possible to take your bike on the train for a small fee.
A mixture of modern and “heritage” carriages are available on board. State your preference when booking.
The Taieri Gorge Railway leaves from the Dunedin Railway Station, in central Dunedin. It’s a short walk from the Octagon.
In the summer (October to April), there are two trains daily, at 9:30am and 2:30pm from Dunedin. They run every day of the year, except Christmas Day. In the winter (May to October), there is just one train per day, leaving Dunedin at 12:30pm from Monday to Saturday, and 9:30am on Sundays. In both seasons, trains terminate at Pukerangi from Monday to Saturday and continue to Middlemarch on Sundays.
The Taieri Gorge Railway is one scenic train journey in New Zealand, but it’s far from the only one. You can travel quite extensively around New Zealand by train. The Coastal Pacific train travels from Picton to Christchurch, the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth, and the Northern Explorer from Wellington to Auckland.