The Ashhurst Flyer

Join Steam Inc for a trip through the Manawatu Gorge from Woodville!

Sunday 24th May 2026

Experience the 'Gorge behind Steam! Woodville - Ashhurst & Return

Travel with the Steam Incorporated team aboard our heritage train as we wind our way through the dramatic Manawatū Gorge, revealing views of the mighty river far below — a perspective now impossible to experience by road.

“The Gorge” is one of New Zealand’s most fascinating natural corridors, linking the Manawatū and Hawke’s Bay regions while carving a striking divide between the Ruahine and Tararua Ranges. Since the railway’s completion in 1891, this line has remained a vital lifeline through the landscape, hugging cliffs and riverbanks in a feat of Victorian engineering.

For decades, the road — once part of State Highway 3 — shared this narrow passage, though its history was marked by repeated closures due to slips and instability. In 2017, the decision was made to permanently close the old SH3 route. Now, in 2025, a magnificent new highway stands open to the public — but only the railway offers this intimate, historic journey through the heart of the Gorge.

The Te Ahu a Turanga: Manawatū Tararua Highway is a bold and scenic new route that carves its way across the lower North Island, reconnecting Ashhurst and Woodville after the closure of the Manawatū Gorge. Winding through dramatic landscapes, the highway blends modern engineering with a deep respect for the cultural and natural heritage of the region. It traverses rolling hill country, skirts native bush, and offers sweeping views of the Ruahine Ranges. From our heritage train, we see some of the huge infrastructure involved in turning this project into a reality!

Travel from Woodville through to Ashhurst & return, this train will be hauled by one of our coal fired steam locomotives.

Please see below a provisional timetable for the day:

Please be at your boarding station minimum 10 minutes prior ready to roll, with your tickets, carriage number and seating allocations at the ready.

Fares

General Admission (2+ yrs) - $49
Family Pass (2A2C) - $169
Infants - Free

Group bookings of 10+ please contact us via email admin@steaminc.org.nz or call us on 0800 783 264 for a personalized package.

Book The Ashhurst Flyer!

Please note that if booking online, our booking system does add on a small percentage to the above fares. Steam Incorporated does not see this revenue.

All seating is reserved and allocated. Prior booking is essential.

We can cater for larger group bookings - these are best dealt with directly through us by emailing admin@steaminc.org.nz or contacting 0800 783 264.

Limited Mobility Disclaimer
Due to the age, design and nature of our heritage carriages, these are not suitable for passengers with limited mobility. If you have any concerns, please contact us on 0800 783 264 to discuss options with our bookings team!