What is the duration of the train trips?

Each themed excursion lasts between two to four hours depending on the route and stops.

Are the trains suitable for children and seniors?

Yes, the trains offer comfortable seating and easy boarding, making them accessible to all ages.

Is food provided on board?

Some trips feature gourmet dining options, while others allow for optional food purchases at stops.

Can I bring pets on the train?

Pets are generally not permitted on the heritage trains to maintain cleanliness and safety.

Are the trains wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility may be limited due to the vintage carriages, so it’s best to inquire directly with Steam Incorporated for specific needs.

Where can I park near the departure station?

Parking is available near the Paekākāriki station, but spaces can be limited during festival days, so arrive early.

Ride the Rails: Steam Incorporated’s Art Deco Heritage Train Experience in Hawke’s Bay | Guided Tour | Museum

Experience a step back in time with Steam Incorporated’s Art Deco Heritage Trains, operating during the vibrant Art Deco Festival in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, from February 19th to 23rd, 2026. This unique excursion offers travelers the chance to journey through the scenic landscapes near Paekākāriki aboard lovingly restored steam and diesel locomotives that echo the golden age of rail travel. Each trip is crafted to blend history, culture, and breathtaking scenery into an immersive outing that stands apart from typical tourist fare.

Centered in the Wellington region, Paekākāriki serves as the gateway to this remarkable experience. The train routes pass through stunning coastal vistas, rolling farmland, and local heritage sites, making it a standout in New Zealand’s outdoor recreation scene. What makes this trip especially unique is its timed alignment with the internationally celebrated Art Deco Festival, where every aspect of the journey—from the period-style decor on board to the themed events—reflects the elegance and style of the 1920s and 1930s.

Passengers can select from several themed excursions including market day journeys where local crafts and gourmet foods await, and luxury dining trips that combine fine food with the rhythmic clatter of classic rails. The heritage carriages retain original craftsmanship details, transporting riders not just through the landscape but through time itself. The steam engines’ hissing and chuffing provide a soundtrack unmatched by modern trains, enchanting visitors of all ages.

This offering honors the region’s rich railway history while supporting conservation efforts in the area, emphasizing sustainable tourism that respects the natural environment. Wildlife sightings might include native birds like the tui or kererū, rewarding keen nature enthusiasts. Bonus points go to photography fans: dawn and late afternoon light reveal the trains emerging like time capsules surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills.

For travelers seeking a blend of cultural enrichment, scenic adventure, and a touch of nostalgia, Steam Incorporated’s heritage trains deliver a distinctive journey. It’s an ideal addition to any Hawke’s Bay itinerary for those staying in Paekākāriki or Wellington, offering an elegantly paced outdoor and cultural adventure sure to create lasting memories.