Blog Health

Rail travel in New Zealand Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels

overview of rail transport in New Zealand

About Rail travel in New Zealand

Although rail travel had historically played a much more prominent role in New Zealand's transportation system, with the advent of private car ownership and commercial air travel in the decades following World War II, the popularity of rail travel declined sharply. Today, New Zealand's rail network is only a shadow of its former self, and is primarily used for freight transport. Many former passenger lines have either been dismantled, or are now used exclusively for freight. New Zealand's long-distance rail network is considerably underdeveloped by the standards of the developed world. There are no high-speed services — the intercity lines aren't even electrified, and driving yourself often works out to be faster than taking the train. The rail network is also limited, with only 3 long-dis

Rail travel in New Zealand Travel Guide Sections

Our comprehensive guide covers 7 sections including:

UnderstandPros & consPassenger servicesBoarding the trainOn boardReserveSee also