Adventure Collective
Experience the Woodville Steam Express: A Historic Steam Train Journey Through Manawatū Gorge - Palmerston North

Experience the Woodville Steam Express: A Historic Steam Train Journey Through Manawatū Gorge

Paekākārikieasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Minimal physical effort required; suitable for most ages and fitness levels

Overview

Travel back in time aboard the WW1 Memorial Steam Locomotive Ab 608 as it winds its way through New Zealand's stunning Manawatū Gorge. Discover why the Woodville Steam Express is a must-do family adventure blending heritage and nature.

Paekākāriki, Wellington

Woodville Steam Express

Celebrate the New Year with Steam Incorporated on these special family train rides!

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Experience a unique steam train journey from Palmerston North to Woodville on January 10, 2026. Travel behind the historic WW1 Memorial Steam Locomotive Ab 608 through the stunning Manawatū Gorge, enjoying breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes. This family-friendly adventure promises unforgettable memories and a glimpse of sustainable energy in action.

Saturday 10th January 2026

Two Steam Hauled Trains from Palmerston North to Woodville & Return! Morning & Afternoon Departures!

Bring the family up and experience the landscaping in the heart of the Manawatu Gorge!

Travel behind WW1 Memorial Steam Locomotive Ab 608 as we traverse the Manawatū Gorge, taking in the sights of the rarely seen river, now inaccessible by road. ‘The Gorge’ is an interesting geographical location, linking the Manawatū and Hawkes Bay regions, and dividing the Ruahine and Tararua Ranges.

The railway line through here was completed in 1891 and has since held itself as a vital transport link through the area. The road through here, once forming part of State Highway 3, has a chequered history of closures due to land subsidence. The most recent of which was in 2017, when authorities decided to close the scenic road for good. Fast forward to 2025 and work is complete and traffic operating over the huge infrastructure project to rejoin the two ends of the gorge with a purpose-built highway - Te Ahu a Turanga – Manawatū Tararua Highway.

Travel through to Woodville where our train will be turned and serviced, before coming back for a second glimpse at Te Āpiti - you might catch a glimpse of Meridian’s wind farm, producing enough sustainable energy to power 45,000 kiwi homes. Upon disembarking at Palmerston North, reflect on an experience like no other, a steam experience for the whole family.

Please see below a provisional timetable for the day:

Trip 1

!Description of image

Trip 2

!Description of image

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

Fares

General Admission Single - $49 General Admission Family of 4 - $179 Infants under 2 years travel at no charge, provided they sit on the lap of a fare paying adult

Group bookings of 10+ please contact us via email admin@steaminc.org.nz or call us on 0800 783 264 for a personalized package.

Please note that if booking online, our booking system does add on a small percentage to the above fares. Steam Incorporated does not see this revenue.

Book online or call 0800 783 264 to book directly with the team!

All seating is reserved and allocated on these special experiences. Prior booking is essential.

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!

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Holiday Trips

Seats on special New Year rides sell out fast, so secure your tickets well in advance.

Dress in Layers

Temperatures can fluctuate in the gorge, so wear layers to stay comfortable throughout the journey.

Bring a Camera

The scenic gorge offers plenty of photo opportunities—don’t forget your camera or smartphone.

Arrive Early for Boarding

Arriving early ensures smooth boarding and time to explore before departure.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Tui
  • Fantail

History

The WW1 Memorial Steam Locomotive Ab 608 commemorates New Zealand’s contributions to railway engineering and military history during the early 20th century.

Conservation

Steam Incorporated actively promotes heritage preservation while encouraging sustainable tourism practices to protect the Manawatū Gorge environment.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Palmerston North

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Camera or Smartphone

Essential

Capture breathtaking views of the gorge and steam locomotive.

Layered Clothing

Essential

Adapt to varying temperatures during the trip.

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

For boarding and short walks at stations.

Sunscreen

Protect yourself from sun exposure during open-air segments.

summer specific