Driving Creek Railway image

Driving Creek Railway

Tourist attraction Nature preserve Tour operator Railroad company Pottery classes

One of the Top rateds in Coromandel


Address

380 Driving Creek Road, Coromandel 3506, New Zealand

Website

drivingcreek.nz

Contact

+64 800 327 245

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (2.3K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
  • Saturday: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
  • Sunday: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
  • Monday: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
  • Thursday: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: train (28) ride (17) pottery (11) trip (10) time (9) views (8) lovely (8) amazing (8) driver (8) tour (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Nikki C. 1 year ago on Google
    Another treasure not to be missed. Awesome rail tour guided by their very knowledgeable Russell. Views and highlights for africa. Zip line running alongside which looked fabulous- catering for the less adventurous nicely. Ages 6 - 80 years! Smaller gradient allows for a slower ride, better views of surroundings and multiple platform stops between each portion of the ride. Good pricing with exciting memories to be made. 🤩🌴
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ayla B. 1 year ago on Google
    This will be one of the coolest and most memorable adventures I’ve been on. Such a cool place, all the staff are so lovely and and informative of the history in this town. Frederick at the pottery class has a wealth of knowledge - and patience for a novice potter, can’t wait to bring the whole family back next summer. Keep it up team!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alan C. 2 years ago on Google
    Driving Creek Railway is a must do when you are on the Coromandel, it is simply a delight to travel up the rail line through the regenerated native forest to the eyefull tower at the top giving you unparalleled views over Coromandel. Each portion of the rail line has a story and the whole experience will stay with you forever, as I said definately a must do.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Caitlin 1 year ago on Google
    Photos dont do this amazing train tour justice, this railway tour was one of the BEST things we did on my first trip back to New Zealand after covid. Absolutely buy tickets in advance to save you missing out, they have an amazing set up and stunning scenery throughout the journey. Beautiful pottery studio as well. 11/10, put it on the list to do!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Liam 10 months ago on Google
    The train ride was lively, and the rustic look of both the train and train station really added to the authentic look. Overall it was an enjoyable ride, although, I was a bit disappointed when I couldn’t hear what the train guide was saying as the sound of the train drowned out what he was saying, which I find a bit frustrating. The 'Zip line' was a thrilling experience, and our guides Angus & Cole where both humorous & friendly But what really made this place stand above the rest was its commitment to preserving the native forest and its wildlife. They have implemented several conservation projects to ensure this area remains a stronghold for our native animals and plants. It's impressive to see an attraction that puts conservation at the forefront of their operations, and it made me feel good about visiting."
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kit 6 months ago on Google
    Seeing the trailer and photos on website does not do this justice. Wonderful ride up the mountain, and amazing to think that this started as a hobby for one guy. Wonder views and artwork on the way, with great Information provided by Guide / Train driver. Highly Recommend for all photographers.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sharmaine H. 1 year ago on Google
    Great thing to do while visiting the area. Views were gorgeous. Initially booked for the zipline however had to cancel due to a medical condition so opted to take the train ride. Raina was our driver /guide, who was very knowledgable and friendly. We hope to book zipline at Christmas and hoping Raina is our guide.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Brian B. 2 years ago on Google
    Love this trip really exciting and fun way to get up the hill.great accomplishment overall. summer or winter doesn't matter here just great times to be had.well worth a look .
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Clair A. 5 months ago on Google
    I thoroughly enjoyed the Driving Creek Railway and the history behind it. This was the second time I’ve been here and I would go again as it’s good value for money. The first time the sun was shining and unfortunately this time it rained but it actually didn’t ruin the experience. We got a little rained on but the rain and the mist across the hills actually made it a wonderful experience (the train does have a roof on it so we didn’t get drenched!). I don’t want to spoil too much but the train takes you up through the trees and the pottery while the driver tells you about the man who created the track. You get to stop at several places to look at the views and take pictures and it’s a really great time. At the bottom of the track you can see people working on pottery and there’s a lovely small cafe where you can buy a hot drink, pie or an ice cream.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amanda H. 2 years ago on Google
    We took the train ride up the mountain, the many bridges made it a little exciting as I negotiated if I was going to live or die crossing them, but its all well constructed and looked after, beautiful views. We also took the pottery class there, and absolutely loved it. Just to clarify though, the cost on the website was purely for the lesson, any of your creations you wish to keep comes at an extra cost for firing and glazing and postage.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 K. K. 6 months ago on Google
    From now on Barry has a special place in my heart. I really appreciate his lifetime project. The ride with the train was absolutely lovely. Thanks to all the people who make this happen all days ❤️. It absolutely made my day.

  • 4/5 Jansen M. 6 months ago on Google
    Originally built as a way to get to clay pits in the hills, the Driving Creek Railway is now a lovely tourist trip up the Coromandel hills. The path is lined with fun pottery from the kiln, and the summit commands an amazing view across to Auckland and various islands.

  • 5/5 Sarah G. 6 months ago on Google
    Great trip on a great little railway. Amazing engineering and building by one man and then spectacular views as you reach the top. Highly reccomended and would go again if we were ever over here again. Only thing that would have been nice is to be able to have a cup of tea before the train ride.

  • 4/5 Leon K. 7 months ago on Google
    Has a decent sized car park there's toilets as well. The train ride to the eyefull tower takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes return. It's an awesome ride. The train operator gives lots of knowledge on the whole area while passing each point of interest. If you're in Coromandel definitely go. They also have ziplining and pottery classes

  • 5/5 John M. 7 months ago on Google
    Booking details were excellent. The climate of the day was perfect Boarding arrangement were proficient. The security arrangement of boarding and locking in were perfect. On board commentary was excellent. Our driver was superb. Very comprehensive and accommodating in all aspects of the environment and the vista. Highly recommended to everybody of all ages.

  • 5/5 Sharon J. 2 years ago on Google
    Wow so amazing just loved it .train trip up the mountain and all the work of one man's vision to be shared and still continues now he has passed. The tree planting project is awesome and excellent for future generations to come. Pottery there is just beautiful and one of the potters took time out to explain how it's run

  • 5/5 Dawn C. 7 months ago on Google
    It was an awesome experience and we really enjoyed the train tour and our Conductor was very knowledgeable and personable, took time to answer questions. We would definitely take the train ride again. The scenery was breathtaking.

  • 5/5 Kelly Ann C. 7 months ago on Google
    Driving Creek Railway is the hidden gem of Coromandel! Our family visited on a cool, rainy day, and had an absolutely lovely time. We purchased out tickets online shortly before the tour. The trains are neat little things, and we visited when it was quiet enough that we could flip the seats around as the train switched directions. The driver was very friendly, and narrated the entire tour, giving us information about the trains, the original builder of the railway, and the forest in which it is located (which, spolier-alert, was all hand-planted!). When we arrived at the little store/check-in desk from the parking lot, we were greeted warmly and engaged in conversation, then provided with blankets to keep us warm on the train. Such a lovely idea! Despite the on-and-off rain, we stayed dry on the train, and were able to see the incredible view from various points along the trip. There is clay artwork present along the length of the tracks, and so much more to look at. Overall, this trip is an absolute feast for the senses, and worth every cent for the unique and beautiful experience.

  • 5/5 Rochelle A. 8 months ago on Google
    Fantastic little gem in the Coromandels. Train was was equally as breathtaking as it was educational and informative . The team a DCR have our together a fantastic family friendly day out .

  • 5/5 Matt R. 8 months ago on Google
    Excellent time - Doug, the tour guide, was friendly and informative and answered every question well. The railway itself and its history is mighty impressive, and the ride & views through the rainforest and of the coastline is spectacular. The nature gold-mine walk and animal sanctuary is small, but easy and nice to fill out the visit. The railway track & carriage are exceptional. Would recommend! Thanks!

  • 5/5 joseph f. 11 months ago on Google
    Awsome day out , beautiful scenery, admire the work put into it. We went in May. If your on the train you can see ppl on the zip line passing through the trees. Epic little journey. They also have pottery stations to learn & zipline for the brave. Apologies for running late. Busting to go toilet So thank goodness There's toilets on the top hill Thanks to Barry & Team making it possible for us to enjoy. Love kiwiana sustainable living.

  • 1/5 Tony H. 11 months ago on Google
    Awful, noisy, diesel belching monster. Commentary inaudible over noise of engine. Smothered in diesel fumes in every tunnel. A quiet walk up through the forest would be infinitely preferable. If you do go, arrive early and make sure to get a seat at the very front, or very back. (Doesn't matter which as the train reverses several times.)

  • 5/5 Jessica H. 10 months ago on Google
    Visited this place today and honestly so much better than we expected! Such an incredible way to spend a few hours! The train driver is super lovely as are the staff, do it!! You won't regret it 🥳

  • 5/5 Dom W. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful story and ride showing the works of the people with a vision! Even thou the train is narrow, it wasn’t an issue for our family of 2 adult and 3 year old child. Recommend to buy ticket in advance because seats are limited every departure. Reached the Eyefull tower and it has a beautiful view at the top, along with the wood smell (eucalyptus, Pine etc).

  • 5/5 Clament W. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing ride! Amazing view! Kudo's on the driver keep switching drives around along the way & shared the history about the site. Highly recommended

  • 5/5 Benjamin M. 1 year ago on Google
    This is an excellent experience for all ages. The railway has an interesting story and is one of a kind. Our driver/guide Russel was great, both enthusiastic and knowledgeable.

  • 5/5 Aaron W. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely magical place. The train ride and views amazing. To know the hours of dedication and passion that went into this by Barry Brickell is unbelievable. Definitely Number 1 Must do in Coromandel.

  • 5/5 Kelda B. 2 years ago on Google
    What an awesome wee find. Ziplining was super fun, staff were lovely, pottery was an entertaining challenge, and the little train and learning about how this one guy built it all himself was so interesting. 100% recommend people of all ages go. Great rainy day activity too. Next time will take the full train ride to the top.

  • 5/5 Pablo l. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely worrh the money!! Fantastic trip and took over an hour. Great scenery and the Eye full tower is amazing. Lots of things to see along the way in the bush with amazing pottery attractions. Greag for kids too.

  • 4/5 Rafael O. 2 years ago on Google
    Well, I only did railway trip. It is nice, the staff are great and I would recommend for those with kids. The only thing that bothers me is that, during the trip the drivers also “shares” a lot of information while we cross the locations, and we couldn’t even hear anything they said, mostly because of the train’s engine noise. There is a Cafe over there where I got a nice ice-cream. And also a pottery shop, which is worth having a look. You can do a short nature walk there as well.


Call +64 800 327 245 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Trends



Last updated:

Similar Tourist attractions nearby

The Waterworks image
1
The Waterworks
Tourist attraction
Quirky place with water-powered inventions, a playground & a swimming hole, plus an organic cafe.
4.50 (753 reviews)
Eyefull Tower image
2
Eyefull Tower
Tourist attraction
4.70 (209 reviews)
Kauri Block Walk image
3
Kauri Block Walk
Hiking area
Native Kauri trees can be seen along this walking trail that stretches up above the harbor.
4.50 (199 reviews)
Coromandel Zipline Tours image
4
Coromandel Zipline Tours
Tour operator
5.00 (156 reviews)
Kaipawa Trig Track image
5
Kaipawa Trig Track
Hiking area
4.50 (156 reviews)
Last updated:
()