In short
- Seating is assigned at booking
- Carriages date back to the 1930s
- Open-air platforms offer extra viewing space
In this article
When you ride the Taieri Gorge Railway, you travel in historic style. Because the 58-kilometre route traverses deep canyons and historic viaducts, finding a good vantage point is important. Here is how seating on the train works.
Can you choose your seats on the Taieri Gorge Railway?
You receive assigned seats when you book your ticket, and you must sit in your allocated spot.
The railway assigns seating to manage passenger numbers across the carriages. You cannot swap seats with other passengers or move to empty rows during the trip. If you travel with a group, book your tickets together in a single transaction so you are seated nearby.
What are the heritage carriages like?
Passengers ride in classic 1930s heritage train carriages.
These vintage carriages feature large windows for viewing the gorge and the 10 hand-carved tunnels. Because they are historic, space can be tighter than in modern trains. The carriages are fully enclosed to protect you from the quickly changing Central Otago weather.
How do the open-air viewing platforms work?
Each carriage connects to an outdoor platform where you can stand and take photos.
You can leave your assigned seat and walk out to these platforms at any time. They offer an unobstructed view of landmarks like the Wingatui Viaduct, which drops 47 metres into the valley. Bring sunglasses and a light waterproof jacket, as it gets windy outside. Smoking is strictly prohibited on these platforms.
Is there an accessible carriage?
Yes, but you must book the accessible carriage in advance.
The standard 1930s carriages have narrow aisles and historic dimensions that restrict power wheelchairs. The railway provides a specific accessible carriage to accommodate wheelchairs safely. Contact the railway directly when buying your ticket to reserve a spot in this carriage.
Do you stay in your seat the whole trip?
No, you can move to the outdoor platforms or exit the train at specific stops.
The train stops at the century-old Deep Stream Bridge for a photo opportunity. When the crew gives permission, you can disembark and walk across the bridge. You also have 15 minutes to step off at Pukerangi Station before the train makes its return journey to Dunedin.
Questions travellers ask
Can I smoke on the viewing platforms?
No. Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere on board the train, including the open-air platforms.
Do infants get a seat?
Infants aged 0 to 4 travel for free. They do not receive an allocated seat and must sit on an adult's lap.
Where does the train leave from?
The journey departs from Platform 1 at the Dunedin Railway Station in Anzac Square.
