We wish to inform our valued passengers of an important update for those planning to travel on the Northern Explorer train during the upcoming scheduled network upgrade periods.
Affected Dates:
15 January 2025 to 27 January 2025
12 April 2025 to 28 April 2025
Impact on Travel: During these periods, the tracks between Auckland Strand Railway Station and Hamilton will be closed for train travel due to essential upgrade work to prepare for the City Rail Link's opening in 2026.
From Auckland to Hamilton: Passengers will transfer by bus from Auckland Strand or Papakura Station to Hamilton Station.
From Hamilton to Auckland: Passengers will transfer by bus from Hamilton Station to either Papakura or Auckland Strand Station.
Important Update for All Bookings Until 27 January 2025:
All bookings made up to and including 27 January 2025 (both old and new) will automatically receive a replacement bus service for the affected section of the route.
For April 2025 travel, we are currently accepting bookings to and from Hamilton only, and passengers should consider alternative transport to and from Auckland.
Scenic Routes Unaffected:
Rest assured, you will not miss a significant portion of the scenic route, as the most picturesque parts of the journey are located south of Hamilton. The train journey between Hamilton and Wellington will operate as usual, allowing you to experience the breathtaking landscapes and highlights that make this journey unforgettable.
Alternative Travel Options: For travelers not included in the transfer bus:
Consider arranging private transportation between Auckland and Hamilton.
Local bus or coach services may be available as an alternative.
If you need assistance identifying suitable travel options, don't hesitate to get in touch with our New Zealand Travel Team for guidance.
Flexibility for Travelers: To accommodate your needs, we offer the following options:
Reschedule your travel to a future date.
Request a 100% refund if you prefer not to travel.
We apologize for any inconvenience caused by this disruption and remain committed to providing as much assistance as possible.
For further inquiries or assistance with your travel plans, please contact our New Zealand Travel Team.
Our friendly New Zealand Travel Team is available from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm (New Zealand Time) Monday - Sunday, excluding public holidays.
For assistance and reservations during our opening hours contact our New Zealand Travel Team by email or phone. To cancel a reservation, please email us at info@newzealandtravelteam.com before 72hrs or 3 days from the travel date.
Phone
You can call one of our English-speaking Consultants at +64 7 575 5049
Current New Zealand time:
Within New Zealand:
Reservations only with payment - 0800-143-669
Travel planning and all other inquiries - +64 7 575 5049
Outside New Zealand:
+61 1800 359 729 Australia Toll-free
+1 855 413 3019 USA Toll-free
+1 866 554 0304 Canada Toll-free
+44 800 0148106 United Kingdom Toll-free
Bluebrige offers a ferry service between Wellington and Picton and vice versa. The passenger terminals in Wellington and Picton are centrally located and easy to get to. While there is no long term parking on-site, there are plenty of parking options nearby. On board, there is heaps of stuff to help make your journey awesome.
Walking on
Foot passengers should check in at the terminal at least 45 minutes before their sailing time. Remember to ensure any luggage is properly labelled and packed securely. In Wellington our team will guide you from the terminal building to our ship on-foot. We can arrange a transfer with our passenger van if you would prefer a little assistance. We also like to use our passenger van when the weather isn't too flash to keep you all as comfortable as possible. In Picton foot passengers are transported via shuttle bus from the terminal building to the ship (short journey).
Cyclists
Cyclists should check in at the terminal at least 45 minutes before their sailing time. In Wellington our team will guide you from the terminal building to our ship. In Picton cyclists are asked to follow the passenger shuttle bus from the terminal to the ship. PLEASE NOTE: You are permitted to ride to the stern ramp but you must walk across the ramp and there is no riding allowed inside the ship itself.
Your bicycle will be stored beneath the decks inside and out of the weather. We supply lashings to secure bicycles to ship rails/brackets and rags for padding but we do encourage owners to bring their own. A member of our staff will be on hand to provide you with assistance or advice if required.
Driving on
Luckily, getting your vehicle onto our ferry is easier than it looks, and minimal preparation is required to make sure you have a safe and easy journey. Our awesome crew is also there to help you every step of the way so please don’t be afraid to ask for assistance.
If you’re travelling in a vehicle, you need to be at the terminal at least an hour before departure and should check in at the vehicle booth – not inside the terminal. As you won’t have access to your vehicle during sailing, make sure you have everything you need for your trip in your hand luggage. You’ll be expected to drive your vehicle safely onboard, although our crew are there to help if you need it. When boarding at night, remember to turn your lights off before you approach the ship's ramp so as not to blind our crew. Double-check your handbrake is on, put it in gear, turn-off your alarm and lock your vehicle.
Children's age is 1 - 14 Years Inclusive.
