Whanganui Vintage Weekend | Trains

Classic cars, retro fashion and vintage charm — and our Heritage Train is joining the celebrations!

Whanganui Vintage Weekend returns for its 16th year, bringing classic cars, timeless style and heritage rail to the city.

Our heritage train is back for the celebrations, with an all-new day trip from Whanganui to New Plymouth joining our popular shorter journeys to Kai Iwi, Ruatangata and Feilding. Discover somewhere new, revisit a favourite, and make the journey part of your weekend.

These popular excursions sell quickly. Book early to secure your seats.

Quick Reference Guide

Vintage Weekend Train Departures:

• The Kai Iwi Trekker - Sat 16th Jan at 9:15am & 1:35pm
• The Ruatangata Wanderer - Sat 16th Jan at 11:15am & 3:55pm
• The Feilding Flyer - Sun 17th Jan at 8:35am returning back at 3:30pm
• The Taranaki Explorer - Mon 18th Jan at 7:20am returning back at 8pm

All trains departing from Whanganui depart from Taupo Quay - location details here!

The Kai Iwi Trekker

Saturday 16 January 2027

Step aboard for a nostalgic heritage train ride from Whanganui’s Taupo Quay to Kai Iwi! Hear 110-year-old Ab 608 work hard up the legendary Westmere Bank, enjoy sweeping views along the Kai Iwi deviation, then sit back for the return journey to Whanganui — a classic rail experience packed with history, scenery and vintage railway atmosphere.

Fares - The Kai Iwi Trekker

General Admission - $49 | Family Pass - 4 Persons - $179
Infant (0-2yrs) - FREE provided they remain on the lap of a fare-paying adult.

Click A Timeslot to Book | Departing Taupo Quay & Return

• Departs Taupo Quay at 9:15am returning back at 11am.

• Departs Taupo Quay at 1:35pm returning back at 3:50pm.

The Ruatangata Wanderer

Saturday 16 January 2027

Step aboard our heritage train for a scenic journey from Whanganui’s Taupo Quay to Ruatangata! Travel through the historic Fordell Tunnel, take in sweeping views across the Whangaehu River and surrounding countryside, then enjoy the return run through the rolling hills to Whanganui — a nostalgic afternoon of classic railway adventure for the whole family.

Fares - The Ruatangata Wanderer

General Admission - $49 | Family Pass - 4 Persons - $179
Infant (0-2yrs) - FREE provided they remain on the lap of a fare-paying adult.

Click A Timeslot to Book | Departing Taupo Quay & Return

• Departs Taupo Quay at 11:15am returning back at 1:40pm.
• Departs Taupo Quay at 3:55pm returning back at 6:20pm.

The Feilding Flyer

Sunday 17 January 2027

Travel behind Ab 608 & one of our Heritage Diesel Electrics from Whanganui’s Taupo Quay to Feilding for a classic day out by heritage train. Journey through the historic Fordell and Turakina tunnels, cross the Whangaehu River and travel through the Rangitikei countryside before arriving in Feilding, where you’ll have time to explore, grab some lunch and enjoy the town before returning to Whanganui — a memorable way to spend your Vintage Weekend Sunday!

Ab608 will haul the train southbound, with one of our Diesel Electrics hauling the return service to Whanganui.

Fares - The Feilding Flyer

Adult (13+ yrs) - $99 | Child (3-12yrs) - $69
Infant (0-2yrs) - FREE provided they remain on the lap of a fare-paying adult.

Click Here to book the Feilding Flyer!

Please see below the provisional timetable for the day.

The Taranaki Explorer

Monday 18 January 2027

For the first time, join us for a special heritage train journey from Whanganui to New Plymouth! Hauled by a classic diesel locomotive, enjoy the changing landscapes of South Taranaki before arriving right in the heart of New Plymouth at Puke Ariki. You’ll have around two hours to explore the city, grab a bite to eat, or stretch your legs along the famous Coastal Walkway with its spectacular views across the Tasman Sea, before rejoining the train for the journey back to Whanganui.

Fares - The Taranaki Explorer

Adult (13+ yrs) - $149 | Child (3-12yrs) - $99

Click Here to book the Taranaki Explorer!

Please see below the provisional timetable for the day.

Please be at your boarding station at least 10 minutes prior ready to roll.

Steam Locomotive Operations & Fire Risk Management

January is traditionally one of New Zealand's warmest and driest months, and summer weather conditions can present an increased fire risk across the North Island.

Steam Incorporated works closely with Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) and operates in accordance with our established Fire Mitigation Framework to ensure the safety of our passengers, crew, surrounding communities and environment.

With the potential for prolonged dry conditions and heightened fire danger during the 2027 summer season, Steam Incorporated reserves the right to substitute a diesel-electric locomotive for any scheduled steam-hauled service.

Any decision to substitute motive power will be based on prevailing weather conditions, local fire danger, operational risk assessments and relevant FENZ advice.

Your heritage rail experience will still go ahead wherever operationally possible, with the same beautifully restored passenger carriages, scenic journey and dedicated onboard team.

We appreciate your understanding as we balance the preservation of New Zealand's railway heritage with our responsibility to operate safely and protect the communities through which we travel.