Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Prepare for your 5-hour train journey into the Otago high country.
Taieri Gorge Railway
Dunedin Railway Station, Anzac Square, Dunedin 9016
GPS -45.8752, 170.509
Open directionsGetting there
How to reach Dunedin Railway Station.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Park at or near Dunedin Railway Station on Anzac Avenue. | Variable | $2-$5 NZD per hour (metered parking) | Arrive early as central parking can fill up quickly, especially on cruise ship days. |
| Walk: Walk from the Octagon (Dunedin CBD) down Stuart Street to the station. | 10 minutes | Free | Very easy downhill walk from the city centre. |
| Tour: Book a shore excursion package from your cruise line. | 20-30 minutes from Port Chalmers | Varies (included in tour package) | Cruise tours often include coach transfers directly to the station. |
| Bus: Take the Orbus Dunedin network to the central bus hub on Great King Street, then walk. | 10-20 minutes depending on route | $2 NZD with a Bee Card | The central bus hub is only a 5-minute walk from the railway station. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The train operates year-round. It runs Thursday to Monday in summer and Friday to Sunday in winter. Check-in begins 1 hour before departure. You must check in exactly 15 minutes before the train leaves.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
Bring cash or EFTPOS for the onboard cafe.
Mobile connections often drop in the deep gorge areas.
How the day runs
Suggested itineraries for your train trip.
The full 5-hour journey from Dunedin to Pukerangi and back.
- Arrive at Dunedin Railway Station
Check in 1 hour before departure.
- Board the train
Find your allocated seat and prepare for departure.
- Deep Stream Bridge
Disembark for a photo opportunity when allowed by the crew.
- Pukerangi Station
Step off to stretch your legs before the return trip.
- Arrive in Dunedin
The train arrives back at the station.
Things to do at the station before boarding.
- Check-in at Booking Hall
View the mosaic floor with 750,000 Royal Doulton tiles.
- NZ Sports Hall of Fame
Head upstairs to learn about local sporting history.
- Platform 1
Walk the 1-kilometre platform and photograph the vintage carriages.
- Boarding
Final call to board the train before departure.
Accessibility and Seating
Seating is allocated at the time of booking. You must remain in your assigned seats during transit. Open-air viewing platforms are available to all passengers. Smoking is strictly prohibited on the train and viewing platforms.
Wheelchair users must book the accessible carriage in advance. Power wheelchairs face restrictions due to historic carriage dimensions. Only certified assistance dogs are permitted on board.
Easiest way to do it
Taieri Gorge Scenic Railway Journey from Dunedin
5 h 4.5 (989)
- Scenic rail tour (round-trip from Dunedin)
- Live onboard commentary
From$97per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
What should I wear?
Wear layers of clothing, as Central Otago weather changes quickly. Bring a light waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes for off-train photo stops.
Can I charge my phone on board?
There are no charging outlets at the seats. Bring a portable power bank to keep your camera or smartphone charged.
Will I have mobile reception?
Mobile phone reception is limited or non-existent in the deep gorge areas. Download any necessary tickets or maps beforehand.