Learn, Indulge or Explore in Napier this December!
Step aboard The Napier Escape, a diesel-hauled heritage train journey through New Zealand’s North Island. Travel from Wellington’s Paekākāriki to the Art Deco charm of Napier, with wine tastings and immersive tours along the way.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
Full day (8–10 hours)
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated travel with optional walking during stops
Wildlife
History
Napier was rebuilt in Art Deco style after a 1931 earthquake, creating one of the world’s rarest instances of citywide 1930s architecture.
Conservation
Steam Incorporated emphasizes conservation by maintaining vintage equipment with environmentally responsible practices and promoting sustainable tourism in Hawke’s Bay.
Steam Incorporated
Learn, Indulge or Explore in Napier this December!
Steam Incorporated, based in Paekākāriki, Wellington, operates scheduled heritage train excursions across New Zealand’s North Island. The organisation runs a range of steam and diesel-hauled journeys that showcase regional scenery, restored rolling stock and historic locomotives, including the WW1 Memorial Steam Locomotive Ab 608. Trips include The Ashhurst Flyer, River City Express, The Heartland Flyer, The Napier Escape, The Mad Hatters Market Express, Steam in the Bay – Art Deco Heritage Trains, Whanganui Vintage Weekend and the Woodville Steam Express.
Each excursion pairs rail travel with local experiences: scenic views through the Manawatū Gorge, access to Whanganui with options for paddle steamer cruises on the Waimarie, visits to Napier during Art Deco events, market day activities in Woodville, and special vintage celebrations. Many services use restored carriages and period stations to enhance heritage presentation.
Steam Incorporated schedules special-event services tied to community festivals and seasonal celebrations, such as Art Deco and Vintage Weekend events, and publishes dates for departures and returns. Safety and preservation are central to operations, with trains maintained to heritage standards and staffed by trained crews and volunteers familiar with historic equipment. Tickets, timetable and accessibility information are provided for each trip, and passengers can choose guided options, dining or independent exploration where listed. Booking details and service updates are available for each scheduled departure, ensuring clear information for passengers planning travel arrangements ahead.
Base Location
Paekākāriki, Wellington
Based in Paekākāriki, Wellington
Tours Offered
9
Diverse steam and diesel excursions
Heritage Locomotive
Ab 608
Includes WW1 Memorial steam locomotive
Event Services
Seasonal
Festival and market day trips
Choose a scenic steam or diesel-hauled excursion and connect with North Island landscapes, festivals and rail history.
Book in advance
Seats on The Napier Escape fill quickly, especially during holiday seasons—reserve early to secure your spot.
Dress in layers
The journey crosses varied terrain and weather—layered clothing keeps you comfortable throughout the day.
Bring a camera
Stunning landscapes and Napier’s Art Deco architecture offer excellent photo opportunities—don’t miss them.
Plan Napier exploration
Allocate time on arrival to stroll Napier’s waterfront and historic streets for a fuller experience.
Comfortable walking shoes
Needed for exploring Napier’s streets and vineyard visits.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially during summer months.
Weatherproof jacket
fall
Sun protection (hat/sunscreen)
Protect yourself during outdoor portions in sunny weather.
summer