Take a ride with us
The Coolest Scenic Railway Experience in the Manawatu
The Esplanade Scenic Railway was established in 1969 and travels through native bush and secluded areas of the Victoria Esplanade in Palmerston North, New Zealand.
The main track takes the railway from the Esplanade station, past the cafeteria platform, to the children's playground station and back again.
The track is 2.2km long, and the ride is approximately 20 minutes duration.
The teams running the trains are all volunteers, as are those who carry out the maintenance and regulatory safety inspections.
Passengers can purchase a return ticket, which will allow them to enjoy the facilities provided at either end of the park.
A great Miniature Railway!
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Where to find us
There are two stations, our Victoria Esplanade Station and Maintenance Depot is located at the north end of the Esplanade. This station is ideal if you decide to come to the park for the day and have the car, as there is normally always car spots available here for easy parking.
If however, you are already at the park a better option would be the sister station at the Playground, this is located just under the flying fox.
For any administration questions please call into our Victoria Esplanade Station.
Hours of Operation
With weather permitting, the railway is open most weekends and school holidays. Over Summer the hours of operation are extended to take advantage of the warmer days.
During the year there are special events which normally run over Halloween, Easter and Christmas. We also celebrate Mothers and Father's Day. More information can be found on our Facebook page.
Normal Hours: 1 - 4pm on Saturday, Sunday, Public and School Holidays (last train scheduled to leave at approximately 3:45pm).
Summer hours: 12:30 - 4:30pm every day, from Boxing Day to the last Sunday in January (last train scheduled to leave at approximately 4:15pm).
Winter hours: 12:30 - 3:30 pm on Saturday, Sunday, Public and School Holidays (last train scheduled to leave at approximately 3:15pm).
Excursions can be booked outside these windows.
Pricing
Along the 2.2 km track, there are two stations where passages can board or dismount the train. This allows passengers to catch the train at the north end of the park and enjoy the ride up to the picnic/play area where you can choose to hop off and spend some relaxing time with the family. When ready to return, either hop back on the next available train or enjoy a walk through the Esplanade.
Passengers can also purchase a ticket from the Café Esplanade and board/disembark at a platform behind the Café.
Return: $3 per person (no charge for children under 2 years old)
Half-trip: $2 per person (no charge for children under 2 years old)
Concession tickets: 8 return trips $20
