Driving Creek Railway
A unique, artist-built railway journey through native bush, featuring stunning views and integrated pottery art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Driving Creek Railway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique, artist-built railway journey through native bush, featuring stunning views and integrated pottery art.
"This railway trip was an amazing experience travelling back into the history of artist Barry's passion and engineering genius."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Essential for summer & holidays to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
📸 Video Over Photos
Capture the railway's unique twists and turns best on video. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Scenic Railway Ride
The entire route
A charming 1 hour 15 minute journey through lush native forest, past unique pottery art, and over bridges and tunnels.
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Eyefull Tower Views
Top of the railway line
Reach the Eyefull Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Coromandel Peninsula and the Hauraki Gulf.
Pottery Art Installations
Along the railway tracks
Discover unique, handcrafted pottery murals and art pieces integrated into the landscape by artist Barry Brickell.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Embrace the Journey's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Essential for summer & holidays to guarantee your spot!
📸 Video Over Photos
Capture the railway's unique twists and turns best on video. :iphone:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You might do some walking to explore the pottery and views.
🕰️ Allow 1.5 Hours
The full tour experience, including the ride and time at the top.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Essential for summer & holidays to guarantee your spot!
📸 Video Over Photos
Capture the railway's unique twists and turns best on video. :iphone:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You might do some walking to explore the pottery and views.
🕰️ Allow 1.5 Hours
The full tour experience, including the ride and time at the top.
💰 Adult Ticket Price
Around $39-$52 NZD per adult, check for current pricing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Driving Creek Railway, calling it a 'lovely experience' and a 'must-do tour.' The charm of the ride, the beautiful native bush, and the stunning views from Eyefull Tower are consistently praised. The unique art installations and the inspiring story behind the railway add significant depth to the visit, making it a truly special Coromandel attraction. +1
"Absolutely loved it! It’s such a lovely experience, the ride itself is full of charm, surrounded by beautiful native bush and stunning views all the way up. It’s the perfect chill activity for families or anyone wanting to slow down and enjoy something truly unique in the Coromandel. The staff were super friendly and welcoming, and the story behind the place makes it even more special. Highly recommend it! 🌿🚂✨"
Amanda Rain
"This is a must do tour!!! This railway trip was an amazing experience travelling back into the history of artist Barry’s passion and engineering genius. The views were amazing and our guide shared so many interesting facts."
Nadene Whitefield
"Beautiful setting, lovely atmosphere - working pottery set amongst beautifully cared for native bush. We saw so much bird life and little pockets of art along the railway. Engaging staff made the experience friendly and welcoming. So glad we visited."
Nic Leslie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Driving Creek Railway is located in Coromandel Town, approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Auckland. You can also reach it from Thames or Whitianga, which are about an hour away.
Yes, there is parking available at the Driving Creek Railway. It's recommended to arrive a little early, especially during peak season.
While a car offers the most flexibility, you can explore options for local transport or tours that might include Driving Creek Railway as part of a Coromandel itinerary.
Coromandel Town is roughly 2.5 hours from Auckland and about an hour from Thames or Whitianga on the Coromandel Peninsula.
Yes, Coromandel Town offers other attractions like Waiau Falls, Waiau Waterworks, and the beautiful New Chums Beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are approximately $39 NZD for adults and $28 NZD for children, though some sources mention up to $52 NZD for adults. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
It is highly recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially during the busy summer months and public holidays, to avoid disappointment.
The railway tour typically lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering a comprehensive experience of the unique railway and its surroundings.
Information on specific discounts isn't widely published, but family packages or group rates might be available. It's advisable to inquire directly with the railway.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Driving Creek Railway website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Many visitors suggest that shooting videos is more effective than taking photos to showcase the railway's unique zigzags and direction changes.
It's a unique, artist-built railway featuring hand-controlled turnouts, single block systems, and integrated pottery art, offering a historical and scenic journey.
You'll enjoy stunning views of the native bush, handcrafted tunnels, and panoramic vistas from the Eyefull Tower overlooking the Coromandel Peninsula.
Absolutely! Many adults find the experience just as fun and charming as children, appreciating the history, engineering, and unique art.
The railway is set within beautiful native bush, so you have a good chance of spotting local birdlife and other native fauna during your ride.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific dining facilities aren't heavily advertised, it's common for attractions like this to have a small cafe or kiosk for snacks and drinks. It's wise to pack your own if you have specific dietary needs.
Bringing your own snacks and water is generally acceptable at outdoor attractions. Enjoying a picnic with a view might be a pleasant option.
Coromandel Town has several cafes and restaurants offering local cuisine. You can find options before or after your railway journey.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Tip: Consider booking tickets in advance, especially during school holidays, to ensure a smooth experience. The 1 hour 15 minute duration is perfect for shorter attention spans, and the engaging commentary from the guides adds an educational element.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
+2Learn about the history of the railway's construction and Brickell's vision. The guided tour provides fascinating insights into his life and work, making it a deeply enriching experience for anyone interested in creative endeavors and local heritage.
📸 Photography & Videography Buffs
Pro-tip: Many visitors recommend focusing on video recording to best capture the dynamic nature of the railway's zigzags and turns. The panoramic views from the Eyefull Tower also offer stunning backdrops for both photos and videos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of Barry Brickell
+2The railway itself is a marvel of ingenuity, featuring hand-operated points and a unique single-line system. Brickell's passion project transformed the rugged terrain into a scenic route, dotted with his distinctive pottery murals and sculptures. Visitors often remark on the 'sketchy' yet charming nature of the construction, which adds to its unique appeal.
+1Today, the railway continues to operate with a not-for-profit mission, supporting native biodiversity and preserving Brickell's creative legacy. The experience offers a glimpse into the mind of an artist who created something truly extraordinary, blending his love for trains with his passion for pottery and the natural environment.
A Journey Through Native Bush
The route is a carefully crafted experience, featuring handcrafted tunnels and charming bridges that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. The journey is designed to be immersive, allowing passengers to feel connected to the environment. The visual contrast between the industrial charm of the railway and the organic beauty of the forest is striking.
+1Beyond the immediate greenery, the railway offers stunning panoramic views as it climbs higher. Reaching the Eyefull Tower at the summit provides a rewarding vista of the Coromandel Peninsula and the sparkling Hauraki Gulf. It's a perfect spot to appreciate the scale and beauty of the region.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit