The Spring Fling Express
Kapiti to Waipukurau & Return - An Excellent Day Out to the Central Hawkes Bay's Spring Fling
Saturday 5th September 2026 - Kapiti to Waipukurau & Return
Celebrate the arrival of spring in style aboard Steam Incorporated’s Spring Fling Express, a special heritage rail journey from the Kāpiti Coast and Manawatū through to Waipukurau for the opening weekend of Central Hawke’s Bay’s much-loved Spring Fling festivities.
Travel in comfort behind classic diesel-electric locomotive Da 1410, as we make our way through the spectacular Manawatū Gorge and across the rolling rural landscapes of the lower North Island aboard our beautifully restored heritage carriages.
Upon arrival in Waipukurau, passengers can choose from several delightful springtime options.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a memorable spring day out with Steam Incorporated aboard this unique heritage rail experience.
From the highlights below, select how you would like to spend the day!
Option 1 - Taniwha Daffodils Experience
Enjoy a return coach transfer to the famous Taniwha Daffodils, where acres of vibrant blooms create one of Hawke’s Bay’s most picturesque spring displays. Wander the gardens, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy the beauty of spring in full colour.
Return Fares Departing Paekakariki/Paraparaumu/Waikanae/Otaki/Levin
Adult 13+ yrs - $174
Child 3-12yrs - $154
Return Fares Departing Palmerston North
Adult 13+ yrs - $154
Child 3-12yrs - $134
Book your Train Ride & Taniwha Daffodil Picking here!
Fares include your return train fare, bus transfers, lunch pack and daffodil picking.
Option 2 - Explore Waipukurau at Your Own Pace
Prefer to make your own day of it? Spend time discovering Waipukurau’s cafes, shops, gardens, and local atmosphere at your leisure before re-joining the train for the journey home.
Return Fares Departing Paekakariki/Paraparaumu/Waikanae/Otaki/Levin
Adult 13+ yrs - $139
Child 3-12yrs - $119
Return Fares Departing Palmerston North
Adult 13+ yrs - $119
Child 3-12yrs - $99
Fares include your return train fares.
Book your Train Ride to Explore Waipukurau!
Evening Meal
Our drivers’ favourite bakery, Thyme 2 Ryes, will be crafting a delicious evening meal for those who choose to pre-order — a carefully curated offering by their talented team, with full menu details to be revealed.
Prepared fresh and collected enroute from Woodville, your meal will be delivered directly to your seat onboard, ready for you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.
$32pp to include this with your booking!
Itinerary
Please see below a provisional timetable:
Please be at your boarding station minimum 10 minutes prior ready to roll, with your tickets, carriage letter and seating allocations at the ready.
Book your Spring Fling Express Tickets here!
Group bookings of 10+ please contact us via email admin@steaminc.org.nz or call us on 0800 783 264 for a personalized package.
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!
All tickets and seating allocations are sent via email, within 48 hours prior to the departure of this excursion.
Prior booking is essential, make sure you reserve your spot now to avoid missing out on this experience.
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