Saturday 13th December 2025 – Learn, Indulge or Explore in Napier

Steam Incorporated's Napier Escape excursion in December 2025 offers a captivating diesel-hauled journey through New Zealand's North Island, blending heritage rail travel with the region's stunning landscapes. Departing from Paekākāriki, our beautifully restored heritage train traverses the picturesque countryside, culminating in the Art Deco city of Napier, to showcase the best of the region.

Board the special train at Paekakariki, Paraparaumu, Waikanae, Otaki, Levin, Palmerston North, Woodville & Dannevirke!

Passengers will experience the comfort of classic red steel carriages, complete with an open-air viewing platform for unobstructed views of the diverse scenery, hauled by one of our beautifully restored Art Deco-inspired diesel electric locomotives. Onboard amenities include a buffet counter offering a selection of snacks and beverages.

The journey includes traversing engineering marvels such as the Manawatū Gorge, accessible only by rail, providing a unique perspective of the monumental slips that closed the Gorge to road traffic in 2017, and the famed Ormondville Viaduct, a 280m long and 39m high spectacle in the Central Hawkes Bay.

Upon arrival in Napier, passengers can immerse themselves in one of three fantastic options. Due to popular demand, Crab Farm is now SOLD OUT, and so we have arranged a special opportunity to head to the premier Mission Estate for an elegant lunch on Napier's outer reaches.

Sip, Savour & Soak in the Views - Mission Estate

Travel by coach west from Napier, towards Mission Estate Winery. Disembark to a glass of champagne, and an opportunity to sample one the Hawke's Bay's most spectacular wineries.

Established in 1851 by French Marist missionaries, Mission Estate Winery is New Zealand’s oldest winery and the birthplace of the country’s wine industry. Originally founded in Pākōwhai, the mission relocated to Meeanee in 1858, where it began cultivating vineyards for sacramental and table wines. In 1897, the mission purchased 800 acres in Taradale, where it continues to operate today. The iconic La Grande Maison seminary building was relocated here in 1911, and the estate has since become a cornerstone of Hawke’s Bay’s wine heritage.

From the sunlit terrace, Mission Estate Restaurant is one of Napier’s premium dining destinations. Enjoy seasonal food, award-winning wines, and warm hospitality – all set within timeless charm. With only the freshest local produce used, the style of cuisine is contemporary fine dining with a International influence.

Fares

Departing Paekakariki/Paraparaumu/Waikanae/Otaki/Levin
Adult 13+ yrs - $259
Child 2-12yrs - $239

Departing Palmerston North/Woodville/Dannevirke
Adult 13+ yrs - $239
Child 2-12yrs - $219

Take your pick from the following menu. This will be pre-ordered and ready upon arrival to maximise time at the venue. Please state any allergies.

• Option 1 - BEEF FLAT IRON - SERVED MEDIUM
  Hand Cut Triple Cooked Fries, Summer Greens, Shiitake Jus.

• Option 2 - CONFIT CHICKEN LEG
  Confit Chicken Leg , Summer Lentil Salad, Candied Walnuts, Butter Vinaigrette.

• Option 3 - CARAMELISED ONION & POTATO ROSTI
  Whipped Feta, Asparagus, Preserved Lemon, Cacao Nib.

This above menu includes a shared bread selection, salted butter and Dukkah to start and a dessert platter to finish off with Mini Mission Tiramisu, Espresso sponge, Brandy Mascarpone, Macaron of the Day, Chocolate Dipped Strawberries.

Book your Mission Estate Experience!

A Deco Deep Dive

The City’s Art Deco heritage is a defining feature of the city, shaped by a remarkable chapter in its history. After a devastating earthquake in 1931 levelled much of the city, Napier was rebuilt in the architectural style of the time—Art Deco. 'A Deco Deep Dive' takes you on a tour of the city's Art Deco history.

Influenced by the glamour and optimism of the early 20th century, the new buildings featured bold geometric patterns, sunbursts, zigzags, and elegant façades that have since become iconic. 

Fares

Departing Paekakariki/Paraparaumu/Waikanae/Otaki/Levin
Adult 13+ yrs - $194
Child 2-12yrs - $174

Departing Palmerston North/Woodville/Dannevirke
Adult 13+ yrs -$174
Child 2-12yrs -$154

Book your Art Deco Deep Dive!

The above costing includes the return train fare, bus transfers, and tour costs.

Sip, Savour, and Soak in the Views

Travel by coach from Hastings through to the Northern reaches of Napier, towards Bay View, and disembark at the Crab Farm Winery to indulge in a special wine tasting and late lunch opportunity from a beautifully crafted set menu.

Crab Farm Winery was established in the early 1980’s with the first vintage under the Crab Farm Winery label released in 1987. The land at Crab Farm has been in the Jardine family for over 100 years. Originally purchased without viewing beforehand – Hamish Jardine’s great grandfather was alarmed to find his new land was actually partially underwater. With tidal pools, rushes and hundreds of Crabs, the family jokingly named it ‘Crab Farm’.

After the 1931 earthquake in Napier the land where the winery and vineyard are located was raised over 2 metres. Hamish Jardine, owner and winemaker and his father Jim Jardine planted the vines at the home block at Crab Farm. Over the years the winery has increased in size with two new vineyard locations.

Fares

Departing Paekakariki/Paraparaumu/Waikanae/Otaki/Levin
Adult 13+ yrs - $219
Child 2-12yrs - $199

Departing Palmerston North/Woodville/Dannevirke
Adult 13+ yrs - $199
Child 2-12yrs - $179

Take your pick from the following menu. This will be pre-ordered and ready upon arrival to maximise time at the venue.

• Option 1 - SCOTCH FILLET - SERVED M/R ONLY
  250gm Angus scotch fillet served on Beer battered fries with leafy green salad & garlic butter.

• Option 2 - FISH OF THE DAY
  With roasted potato, green vegetables, sundried tomatoes and topped with a lemon caper sauce.

• Option 3 - MARRY ME CHICKEN
  Pan-seared chicken breast in a white wine cream sauce with green peas, served with roasted gourmet potatoes and seasonal green vegetables.

• Option 4 - CRUMBED MUSHROOM RISOTTO BALLS
  Served on a rocket salad with romesco sauce, salsa and a pear, walnut and blue cheese salad.

Book your Napier Sip & Savour Experience!

The above costing includes the return train fare, bus transfers, lunch and wine tasting, Participants in the wine tasting must be 18yrs+, ID will be checked as required

Napier at your Leisure

Enjoy a few hours of free time in Napier’s vibrant CBD—perfect for discovering the city at your own pace. Wander among world-famous Art Deco buildings, stroll the scenic Marine Parade, or relax at a local café with a Hawke’s Bay treat. Visit MTG Hawke’s Bay for a dose of culture, browse boutique shops, or admire the colourful street art. It’s your chance to soak up Napier’s unique charm your way.

Fares

Departing Paekakariki/Paraparaumu/Waikanae/Otaki/Levin
Adult 13+ yrs - $159
Child 2-12yrs - $139

Departing Palmerston North/Woodville/Dannevirke
Adult 13+ yrs - $139
Child 2-12yrs - $119

Book your leisurely Napier Experience!

The above costing includes the return train fare only.

Below is a provisional timetable for the day:

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

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.