Taieri Gorge Railway
Dunedin Railway Station, Anzac Square, Central Dunedin, Dunedin, Otago, 9054
The Taieri Gorge Railway isn’t just a way of getting from Dunedin to Pukerangi: It’s an experience. The train travels through the Central Otago landscape of hills, deep gorges, pastureland, and forests. It follows part of the historic Otago Central Railway route, constructed in the 19th century during Otago’s Gold Rush. Plus, it leaves from the beautiful neo-Gothic Dunedin Railway Station, a major Dunedin attraction.
The Basics
The Taieri Gorge Railway is a scenic way to travel to Pukerangi and Middlemarch in Central Otago, or return to Dunedin on the same day for a relaxing and interesting day out. Along the way, hear live commentary narrating the history of the area, including exciting stories from the Otago Gold Rush. The observation carriage allows for the best views—just keep your arms in as you pass through tunnels that were built by hand more than 100 years ago.
Visitors can enjoy a ride on the Taieri Gorge Railway on its own or as part of a day of sightseeing in and around Dunedin. Combined day trips often include a tour of Dunedin city or a trip to spot wildlife out on the Otago Peninsula.
Things to Know Before You Go
The railway travels 72 miles (116 kilometers).
Trains have a dining cart on board, and you can even order a packed picnic box (or bring your own).
The railway links up with the Otago Rail Trail cycle route through Central Otago, and it’s possible to take your bike on the train for a small fee.
A mixture of modern and “heritage” carriages are available on board. State your preference when booking.
How to Get There
The Taieri Gorge Railway leaves from the Dunedin Railway Station, in central Dunedin. It’s a short walk from the Octagon.
When to Get There
In the summer (October to April), there are two trains daily, at 9:30am and 2:30pm from Dunedin. They run every day of the year, except Christmas Day. In the winter (May to October), there is just one train per day, leaving Dunedin at 12:30pm from Monday to Saturday, and 9:30am on Sundays. In both seasons, trains terminate at Pukerangi from Monday to Saturday and continue to Middlemarch on Sundays.
Travel New Zealand by Train
The Taieri Gorge Railway is one scenic train journey in New Zealand, but it’s far from the only one. You can travel quite extensively around New Zealand by train. The Coastal Pacific train travels from Picton to Christchurch, the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth, and the Northern Explorer from Wellington to Auckland.
Ways to explore
The Taieri Gorge Railway is a scenic way to travel 1-way to Pukerangi and Middlemarch in Central Otago or—as most do—return to Dunedin the same day, for a relaxing and interesting half-day out. As you enjoy the views, listen to live commentary narrating the area’s history, including exciting stories from the 1860s Otago Gold Rush. The observation carriage allows for the best views—just keep your arms in as you pass through hand-built tunnels.
Accessibility
The railway is accessible, with ramps for getting on and off the train and one wheelchair-accessible carriage.
Age limits
Kids under 14 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.
What to pack
Waterproof clothing or umbrella if you plan to disembark; proof of local Dunedin/Otago residence if you purchase a locals ticket
What to wear
Closed-toed shoes, a warm jacket (and hat and gloves, depending on the season) for standing on the observation deck
Not allowed
You cannot bring hot drinks, hot food, or commercially prepared food on board; there’s an on-board café.
Amenities
Café, restrooms, luggage storage areas for 1-way passengers only (reservations required)
Address
The Taieri Gorge Railway departs from the Dunedin Railway Station, an unmissable neo-Gothic building east of the Octagon.
Driving
Dunedin Railway Station is on Anzac Avenue, just off Castle Street/State Highway 1. Note that SH1 is 1-way, so if you’re traveling from North Dunedin (the university area), you’ll drive down Castle Street, whereas if you’re coming from South Dunedin, you’ll drive up Cumberland Street. Pay-and-display parking is available around the station.
Public transportation
If you’re traveling by bus from other parts of Dunedin, it may be easiest to catch a bus to the Dunedin Bus Hub at the top of Great King Street in the Octagon and walk the 1,640 feet (500 meters) to the railway station. Many bus lines converge here.
Best times to visit
The railway operates at set times, typically departing mid-morning and returning to Dunedin around lunchtime.
Best days to visit
The railway operates on summer and winter schedules, with around five departures per week in the summer season (September–April) and three per week in winter (May–August). Check the railway’s website for an up-to-date calendar.
Best months to visit
The scenery from the train is beautiful year-round, but the weather in Dunedin and Central Otago is most pleasant between November and March.
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