"One of the worlds great train trips"

Tuesday 7th Feb

As described by the television series 'Great Scenic Railway Journeys'

So today we took the Dunedin train along the route of the scenic Taieri Gorge. Away very early to make sure we got a parking spot (everyone back to work after the holiday) and with the ticket office opening at 8 am it seemed logical to get away before the rush hour started. So by 7.15 am we were on the road to Dunedin. First in the queue at the ticket office, managed to secure two good seats on the right-hand side of the carriage, which took in the magnificent views of the gorge. It was also in the dining car so handy for the tea and snacks. A viewing platform was at the end of every carriage and most had opening windows in which photos could be taken. Ours, unfortunately, didn't so we spent most of the time outside. Loved, loved, loved this trip. This is up there with all of the other great things we have done since our journey began. Another must do to anyone coming to South NZ.

Not often you are allowed to climb on the front of the engine.

Pukerangi, our return stop

This journey had its delays. A cruise ship had arrived earlier and another train laid on for those passengers. We kept catching it up so we stayed longer at Hindon, 15 minutes longer than we should which meant we were a good 30 minutes late in arriving back at Dunedin. Not that we minded as the weather was perfect and gave us a good look around. It did mean that our scheduled stop at  Omarama was now not possible as we also wanted to see the Moeraki Boulders. The rain had also set in so back to wet weather gear yet again!

Sunny

Back to sun. Fickle this South island weather.

 Stopped at Duntroon at another DOC campsite. $15 with electric hookup we reckon was a bargain.