Step back in time and travel in style aboard the Glenbrook Vintage Railway’s Snowball Express – a special one-day return journey to Mt Ruapehu and Ohakune. Hauled by heritage diesel locomotive DBR1254, this nostalgic rail trip takes in dramatic landscapes, iconic viaducts, and offers the choice of alpine or township adventures.
Departing from Waiuku, Glenbrook, Pukekohe and Hamilton, the train winds through the heart of the North Island, with stops along the Main Trunk Line and sweeping views of the volcanic plateau. Choose your destination – Mt Ruapehu’s Whakapapa Ski Area or the alpine township of Ohakune – and enjoy an unforgettable winter’s day out in Ruapehu.
Two incredible day trip options
Option 1: Mt Ruapehu and the Sky Waka Gondola
Disembark at National Park Village and board a shuttle to Whakapapa Ski Area. Ride the Sky Waka gondola to 2020 metres above sea level and take in panoramic views of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro, and Mt Ngāuruhoe. At the summit, relax at the architecturally award-winning Knoll Ridge Chalet – New Zealand’s highest year-round eatery.
Enjoy lunch (own cost), explore the area, then return by gondola to rejoin the train for your return journey.
Fare from Auckland
Scenic Carriages: Adult $205 | Child (2–14) $145
Heritage Carriages: Adult $195 | Child (2–14) $135
Fare from Hamilton
Scenic Carriages: Adult $175 | Child (2–14) $115
Heritage Carriages: Adult $165 | Child (2–14) $105
Timetable – National Park/Sky Waka Option
Outward
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Waiuku: 5.30am
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Glenbrook: 6.00am
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Pukekohe: 6.25am
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Rotokauri: 7.55am
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Frankton: 8.15am
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National Park: 12.40pm
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Sky Waka arrival: 1.20pm
Return
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Sky Waka departure: 3.15pm
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National Park: 3.50pm
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Waiuku arrival: 10.15pm
Option 2: Explore Ohakune at your leisure
Continue past National Park to Ohakune, travelling over some of New Zealand’s most impressive railway engineering features, including the Makatote and Hapuawhenua viaducts, and the famous Raurimu Spiral.
Once in Ohakune, enjoy lunch at the Kings Hotel buffet (optional), visit the local railway museum, or take a short walk through the Junction or town centre. A complimentary shuttle between the station and town is available.
Fare from Auckland
Scenic Carriages: Adult $165 | Child (2–14) $125
Heritage Carriages: Adult $155 | Child (2–14) $115
Fare from Hamilton
Scenic Carriages: Adult $135 | Child (2–14) $95
Heritage Carriages: Adult $125 | Child (2–14) $85
Timetable – Ohakune Option
Outward
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Waiuku: 5.30am
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Glenbrook: 6.00am
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Pukekohe: 6.25am
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Rotokauri: 7.55am
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Frankton: 8.15am
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Ohakune: 1.15pm
Return
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Ohakune departure: 3.15pm
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Waiuku arrival: 10.15pm
