RailCruising is a rail-car experience on the Rotorua Railway, based at 45 Ngongotaha Road in Ngongotahā, near Rotorua. You drive a petrol-electric rail car with four seats along the line yourself, at about 20 km/h, with an audio tour on board.
The cars have covered seating, clear drop-down waterproof sides, blankets for cooler days and 360-degree views over the lake towards Mount Tarawera, through native forest and along the gentle curves and steep climbs of the line. Cars travel in groups, spaced apart, from Ngongotaha Station or Mamaku Railway Station, and one-way trips between the two stations can be booked. Reviewers say it is an enjoyable experience for young and old. Bookings are made on 07 332 5564 or 0800 72 45 74. The line was the Rotorua Railway, first planned in 1877 to carry visitors to the Pink and White Terraces, and the tours run on its track today. Our pick in Ngongotahā for a slow ride through native forest with lake views.