Features

• Ten pipeline tunnels and nine bridges, including the dramatic Quinns Viaduct.
• Historic and tranquil Upper Nihotupu dam - a working water supply dam.
• Personalised commentary on local history, flora and fauna.
• Close-up views of glow-worms and cave wetas.
• Scenic picnic spot with tables and barbecue.

The Watercare Rain Forest Express will take you into the heart of the Waitakere Catchment area, where you will experience the scenic attractions of Auckland's rain forest. The Rain Forest Express has been in operation since 1998 offering the scenic experience of the Waitakere Ranges, at close quarters, to a wide cross-section of the community.

YOUR EXPRESS JOURNEY
Watercare's Rain Forest Express departs from Jacobsons Depot off Scenic Drive, Titirangi, about 5km from Titirangi Village. The scenic train ride features 10 tunnels and nine bridges including the spectacular Quinns Viaduct. After travelling through the bush, experiencing the spectacular views of the Lower Nihotupu Water Supply Lake and wide expanse of the Manukau Harbour, you will arrive at the historic Upper Nihotupu Dam, Auckland's highest dam. Below the dam is a picnic area (Seaver Camp), where you can enjoy the extensive views of the Nihotupu Valley. Beyond the dam lies the picturesque Lake Nihotupu, one of Auckland's loveliest scenic attractions.

Watercare has three bush tramways, the Nihotupu, Waitakere and Huia lines, which were built between 1905 and 1923 for the construction and maintenance of the Upper Nihotupu , Waitakere and Upper Huia Dams. Today the Rain Forest Express operates on the 6km Nihotupu Tramline which is still used for maintenance of the pipeline on the Upper Nihotupu dam.

The Rain Forest Express is a community project offering an opportunity to see a water supply dam, pipeline tunnels, as well as a wide variety of flora.

A commentary on the local history is given throughout the trip. You may also get up close to some of the local cave weta and glow-worms.