Take a ride on the Ashhurst Flyer through stunning Manawatū Gorge for breathtaking views and rich history. Discover a heritage train experience that combines natural beauty with cultural storytelling.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Ideal for all ages; no strenuous activity required
Wildlife
History
The railway played a vital role in regional development during early 20th century and reflects New Zealand's engineering heritage.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve the historic trains and natural surroundings, maintaining a sustainable connection to the past.
Steam Incorporated
Take a ride on the Ashhurst Flyer through stunning Manawatū Gorge for breathtaking views and rich history. Discover a heritage train experience that combines natural beauty with cultural storytelling.
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
Heritage train rides can fill quickly, so reserve your ticket ahead of time.
Bring your camera
Capture the stunning gorge views and historic locomotive on your camera or phone.
Dress comfortably
Wear layers and comfortable shoes for a relaxed, enjoyable ride.
Check schedule weather
The scenic views are best in clear weather; check the forecast before you go.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the spectacular landscape and historic train in action.
Layered clothing
Dress in layers to stay comfortable during varying weather.
Hat and sunglasses
Protection from the sun enhances comfort on the open-air carriage.
summer
Small backpack
Carry essentials such as water, snacks, or extra layers.