The Heartland Flyer

Kapiti to Woodville & Return - A Brilliant Family Day Out through the Manawatu Gorge

Sunday 24th May 2026

Travel behind steam with Steam Incorporated on a special day excursion to Woodville via the spectacular Manawatū Gorge, hauled by one of our majestic coal-fired steam locomotives.

Departing from Paekākāriki and picking up at Paraparaumu, Waikanae, Ōtaki, Levin, and Palmerston North, this journey takes you through a landscape normally hidden from view. With the Gorge road closed since 2017, rail passengers now enjoy the only way to experience this historic route and witness the dramatic slips that reshaped the valley.

At Woodville, step back in time at the restored 1960s-era station while the locomotive prepares for the return journey to Kāpiti. Look out across the ranges and you’ll also spot Meridian’s Te Āpiti Wind Farm, spanning 1,150 hectares and producing enough clean energy to power around 45,000 New Zealand homes.

Our Lounge Car, offering a selection of cool beverages, tea/coffee and some light snacks and food options will be open throughout the day. Please bring cash as the EFTPOS will be in and out of service and may not be available during parts of the trip due to remote locations. All alcohol must be consumed on board, no alcohol is to leave the train. BYO is prohibited. On board services are limited and while stock lasts!

Enjoy a relaxed day out to beat the Autumn blues, and enjoy a day onboard Steam Incorporated's heritage train.

Fares

Departing Paekakariki/Paraparaumu/Waikanae/Otaki/Levin
Adult 13+ yrs - $139
Child 2-12yrs - $99

Departing Palmerston North
Family Pass - $199
Adult 13+ yrs - $69
Child 2-12yrs - $49

Infants under 2 travel free of charge, provided they are on the knee of a full fare paying adult.

Provisional Timetable

Here's our provisional timetable for the day's running:

Steam, scenery, and a whole lot of fun — Woodville awaits. Click to book!

Please note that if booking online, our booking system does add on a 5% booking fee to the above fares. Steam Incorporated does not see this revenue.

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, 48 hours prior to the departure of this excursion.

If you have any questions or need a hand with your booking, please contact us on 0800 783 264 or email admin@steaminc.org.nz.