Embracing Slow Travel

Flying from Wellington to Auckland might have been faster—but when the choice is between an hour in a cramped tin can, complete with queues, security checks, and airport chaos, or a full day of slow travel through postcard-perfect scenery, the decision is a no-brainer.

We opted for the Northern Explorer Train, and it delivered on every promise: wide, comfortable seats; big, clean, unobstructed picture windows; and unbroken views from start to finish. The journey took us past rolling green hills, sleepy towns, winding rivers, and deep valleys—crossing soaring viaducts and ducking through tunnels along the way. We were treated to dramatic vistas of snow-dusted Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe (yes, that Mount Doom), adding a cinematic edge to the ride. And sheep. Lots of sheep.

For the train lovers among us, the highlight was the Raurimu Spiral—an ingenious feat of engineering that had them practically bouncing in their seats. Onboard, the café car served up decent food and coffee, and at the rear of the train, the open-air viewing carriage offered the best (albeit breezy) vantage point. It may have been chilly, but the views? Absolutely worth it.