Pack a picnic and enjoy an incredible family day out that will be enjoyed by children and adults alike.
Just 40 minutes from central Auckland, embark on a wilderness adventure aboard Watercare's Rain Forest Express, a narrow-gauge railway located deep in the heart of the Waitakere Ranges. Travel over wooden bridges that span valleys lined with ancient forest and pass through tunnels lit at night with a multitude of glow-worms (along with the odd cave weta!). Your adventure culminates in a visit to one of Auckland's hidden treasures, the Upper Nihotupu Dam, where the silence of the bush belies the closeness of the city.
During the journey your train driver will tell the story of the Rain Forest Express from its role in building the dams which now help to sustain Auckland, through to its use today. After visiting the dam, take a stroll to Seaver's Camp, overlooking the Nihotupu Valley and Manukau Harbour. The train will collect you from the Camp for the return journey.
“What a great day – one the kids will never forget! The train ride was awesome and the driver was great. A great time was had by all!” – Marina Burborough, Auckland.