The Full Whanganui Steam Experience - 23rd November 2025

Travel to the beautiful river side town of Whanganui, hauled both steam locomotive Ja 1271. Choose between doing your own thing, or jumping on a serene cruise of the Whanganui River onboard the coal fired paddle steamer "PS Waimarie".

Leaving Kapiti as most others are still sound asleep, we quickly escape the coast and delve into the rurality of the Horowhenua. After a stop in Palmerston North we head up the trunk through the townships of Feilding and Marton before turning onto the Marton - New Plymouth railway line for the last stretch into Whanganui. After crossing the 290km long Whanganui River, we proceed slowly down the short 5km branch line taking us to Taupo Quay.

From here - it's up to you what you wish to do!

Choose one of the following options to maximise your experience:

Sail On The Queen Of The River - Waimarie

Salvaged from the bottom of the Whanganui River where she sat for around 50 years, the Paddle Steamer Waimarie was restored to her former glory and re-launched in 2000. She is now the only one of her kind in operation in New Zealand.

The Queen of the River, the Paddle Steamer Waimarie

Your cruise leaves the Riverboat Centre Wharf and heads upriver taking in the scenery and views of Whanganui which can only be experienced from Te Awa Tupua, the Whanganui River. The commentary shares riverboat history and points of interest along the way. Check out the boiler that powers our paddle steamer, and maybe meet the homing pigeons and send a message with them on their flight back to the Riverboat Centre.

Fares

Departing Paekakariki/Paraparaumu/Waikanae/Otaki/Levin
Adult 13+ yrs - $199
Child 2-12yrs - $179

Departing Palmerston North/Feilding
Adult 13+ yrs - $179
Child 2-12yrs - $159

Book your Paddle Steamer Experience!

The above fares cover your return train fares, Waimarie River Cruise, and bus transfers.

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.

There will be 2 cruise departures, you will receive your group allocations prior to arrival into Whanganui on the day.

An Artisan Lunch for Two - $40 add-on

Pre-order a beautifully curated picnic hamper designed for two, featuring an elegant selection of artisanal delights. Collect your hamper from the Riverboat Centre either before your serene river cruise or upon your return. Please ensure timely collection to allow for a relaxed boarding of your train. Each hamper typically includes flaky croissants, premium cured meats, fine cheeses, freshly baked breads, a delectable dip, and a sweet delicacy to conclude your experience in style.

Do Your Own Thing & Explore Whanganui

Buses will transport you from your arrival at the station to the Waimarie River Boat Centre.

There will be a collection of vintage cruiser bikes for hire for a small fee to those keen to take exploring to the next level.

There will be short tours available at the Durie Hill Elevator. It is New Zealand’s only public transport elevator and is still used on a daily basis by locals and visitors.

The Durie Hill Elevator

There are multiple places to go, and things to see on a cruiser bike or on foot. Take a tram ride for a small fee and arrive at the Riverboat museum, be blown away by NZ Glassworks, admire the sculptures and views from the Motua gardens along the river, indulge in local cuisine, or simply shop local.

Fares

Departing Paekakariki/Paraparaumu/Waikanae/Otaki/Levin
Adult 13+ yrs - $149
Child 2-12yrs - $129

Departing Palmerston North/Feilding
Adult 13+ yrs - $129
Child 2-12yrs - $109

Book your leisurely Whanganui Experience!

The above fares covers your return train fare, and bus transfers.

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.

Evening Meal

Sandy and the team at the Station Hotel will be on hand to provide an evening meal at your seat on departure from Marton.

Being served is a tasty chicken salad main a freshly baked mini baguette, along with a sweet chocolate brownie to cleanse the palate!

Vegans, Vegetarians and Gluten Free options available, and if there are any allergies, please let us know when booking!

$30 per person to add this to your booking.

Please see below a provisional timetable for the day:

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!

Book online or call 0800 783 264 to book directly with the team!