This half day rail journey departs from Dunedin railway station at 12.30pm on scheduled days – contact Taieri Gorge Railway for further details.
The train passes Port Chalmers enroute to Palmerston via the coast. There are many tunnels on this 1 ½ hour trip.
As we approached Blue Skin Bay there was a lovely view of the Bay. Some 15 minutes later we were looking back out across the Bay and the tunnel where we had come from when we saw our first glimpses of Blue Skin Bay. The train followed parts of the Coast Road before heading inland through rural vistas and reaching our destination, Palmerston. The memorial cairn to Sir John McKenzie stands out clearly on nearby Puketapu Hill.
During the one hour break I had time to wander around Palmerston. There are a couple of boutique shops, cafes and a general store for groceries. There is a Museum, but unfortunately, it was closed when we were visiting.
The Excursions
Optional side excursions include "Railroad to Gold Tour" which provides an opportunity to visit Macraes Flat to learn about gold mining or a visit to the newly opened Orokonui Ecosanctuary, near Blueskin Bay.
On the return journey I enjoyed views of the seaside village of Karitane.
One of the crew gives a commentary on the way to Palmerston and a brochure of the journey is given at the time tickets are issued.
The only thing I missed, compared to the Taieri Gorge rail to Middlemarch, was an outdoor viewing carriage to take photos.
If you are a fan of rail journeys and want to see something different try the Seasider next time you are in Dunedin – you won't be disappointed!
For further information: Phone 03 477 4449 or Email: reserve@taieri.co.nz or Visit: http://www.taieri.co.nz/
©2013 Catherine Stewart
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