This is one of the world's great train trips and a 'must do' lifetime experiences. You will be met at the ship and taken to the Dunedin Railway Station to join the train for a half day journey up the Taieri River Gorge. The line winds its way up the edge of the Taieri River, a full commentary gives you the story about the engineering feat of construction which took from 1879 to 1891. Following the train journey we then return to Dunedin for a full afternoon of sight seeing, including a guided tour of Olveston House and the famous Baldwin Street, the steepest in the world, plus time for some shopping.

Adult $326.00

Itinerary

After collection from the ship at Port Chalmers you will be taken to the Dunedin Railway Station - a wonder in itself and one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand. Then we join the train for a half day trip up the awesome Taieri River Gorge and return. Travel through forest, over dizzying viaducts and through countless tunnels - each time you emerge you will be surprised. The terrain changes from coastal fertile plains to rocky moonscape, the river flows far below lined with lush willow trees which in autumn are glorious to see.

Look for wild goats on the cliff faces and you might be fortunate enough to see a New Zealand native falcon out hunting. All of this incredible rail line was created with pick and shovel through harsh winter snow and searing summer heat. Whole communities were created with calico tents and stone chimneys, schools and police stations were established and then packed up and moved on to the next site. Relax on board with our complimentary bottle of New Zealand sparkling white wine and local cheese board. There is a tour commentary on the way and we suggest you change sides of the rain for the return journey.

You will be met at the station on your return and taken to visit Olveston for a 1 hour guided tour. This stately home form Edwardian days is packed with mementos that the owners collected from their many trip overseas at the beginning of the 20th century and is just as it was when the last owner lived there so you will gain an insight into the running of a household of quality at that time. You will be transported to an era of fine living, grace and style. From the garden to the great hall, the Olveston collection is a visual and aesthetic delight.

After the tour you will see some of our great City Sights including Baldwin Street - the world's steepest. If you feel energetic enough you might like to walk up. Then it's back to the ship.
 

Duration 7.5 hours
Starts 0830hrs
Ends 1600hrs

Times are adjusted to suit ship ETA and ETD

You will see
Taieri Gorge
Olveston House
Baldwin Street
Dunedin City
Dunedin Railway Station

What's Included
Comfortable transport
Experienced guide
Olveston House tour
Train journey
Wine and cheese platter

General Info
This tour is a small group tour using quality minibuses

Meals
A lunch menu is available at your own cost on the train trip

Conditions
This tour requires a minimum of 4 persons to operate and is usually limited to 8 persons.

For larger groups please contact us for details

Please see our Shore Trips Booking Terms & Conditions