Driving Creek Railway Tours, Coromandel

Driving Creek is one of the most iconic and family-friendly attractions in Coromandel township, offering unforgettable experiences year-round. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, the activities at Driving Creek Railway—including scenic train rides, pottery workshops, ziplines, and educational eco-tours—make it a must-do for all ages.

Set across 25 hectares of lush native forest in Coromandel, this unique destination on New Zealand’s North Island has been lovingly developed over decades. With its 2.7km narrow-gauge railway winding through regenerating bushland, Driving Creek has become a standout among things to do in Coromandel, attracting both local and international visitors seeking nature, creativity, and adventure.

About Driving Creek Railway Tours

The 25 hectares of land was purchased by Barry Brickell in 1973. Taking the next 32 years to build a narrow-gauge railway, Driving Creek has been a successful tourism business for the region since 1990. Incorporating a zipline, pottery classes and conservation walks, Driving Creek is now a popular destination for families, couples and individuals. The forest which the zipline and railway tours intertwine through and above has all been encouraged with Barry’s dedication and passion towards conservation of native flora and fauna. With over 27,000 hand planted trees creating a beautiful canopy of native bushland to enjoy.

Barry passed away in 2016 but his legacy lives on in the Driving Creek Railway Charity. Where they continue to plant, grow and encourage the growth of the native forests in Coromandel, while providing a sustainable yet educational and fun tourist attraction for locals and visitors in the region.

Railway Tour

Duration 1.15hrs
Price Child $15 / Adult $37 / Family $89 (2 adults + 2 children. Extra child $7)

The railway tour is the original tourist attraction at Driving Creek. This is New Zealand’s steepest railway, climbing up 2.7km of narrow-gauge railway to 167 metres above sea level. The train takes you through native bush, winding its way up through Kauri and Rimu trees, while you enjoy learning about Barry Brickell and the story of Driving Creek. Tunnels and viaducts await your discovery as well as the highest point of the trip for a great photo opportunity. Pottery sculptures and various artworks can be spied among the native bushland to keep the littlies entertained.

Driving Creeks’ railway tour is perfect for all ages and all weather conditions!

See more info about Driving Creek Railway Tours here

Pottery Classes

Duration 1.5hrs
Price $47

Taking part in a pottery class with my husband was by far one of the best things we did in Coromandel, and one of the best things we have ever done together. We expected to walk out of the class covered in clay and having destroyed the classroom with clay splattered all over the walls. But instead we walked out with a new love for pottery and discussions about where to fit a pottery wheel and kiln in our house.

Frederick the Potter took our 1.5hour session at Driving Creek, he taught us the basics of how to throw clay on a pottery wheel, and the hand techniques used to get the clay to a base shape where we were then able to make almost anything we wanted. As long as it was somewhat of a bowl shape. Frederick was super patient and willing to help when our clay started looking a bit legless, if it wasn’t for him I think my teacup would’ve resembled a Childs homemade ashtray art project.
After making two items each, we left the clay to dry and our glazed creations arrived in the post 3 weeks later! My teacup, Pauls’ coffee mug and a small bowl each.

If you’re not a fan of getting your hands dirty, pottery is also available in the shop to purchase. Everything from mugs to jugs and plates to bowls.

See more info about Driving Creek Pottery Classes here.

Coromandel Zipline Tour

Duration 2.5hrs
Price Child $87 / Adult $127 / Family $377 (2 adults + 2 children)

Driving Creek zipline tours fly you through trees, across the native forest, gullies and streams below. Beginning with an 18-minute train ride to the zipline at the top of the hill, before sending you down your first of 8 ziplines.
100% of the money you paid for your experience goes towards restoring and preserving Aotearoa’s native landscape through the Driving Creek Trust. The landscape you fly over is most hand planted, after once being the location of farmland.

See more info about Driving Creek Zipline Tours here

Driving Creek Conservation Tours

Duration 1hr
Price Child $7 / Adult $13 / Family $35 (2 adults + 2 children)

These conservation tours aim to educate to help the preservation of native forests and bush in New Zealand. On this tour you will learn about New Zealands’ native bush and bird life, the various reptiles which scavenge on the forest floors and what you can do to help protect our native and natural environment.

See more info about Driving Creek Conservation Tours here

Things to do in Coromandel

Visit Coromandel Beaches

The main reason the Coromandel is a popular destination during summer is for it’s abundance of beaches and bush walks. Otama Bay, Opito Bay and Whangapoua beach are all a short drive from Coromandel township and can be visited all within a day.

Where to Stay in Coromandel

Hush Boutique Accommodation is the best place to stay in Coromandel, and my recommendation for anyone who is thinking about staying in the Coromandel. The property of Hush Boutique embodies everything you think of when Coromandel comes to mind. Each cabin sits in an individual little garden reminiscent to a secluded hideaway. Hush is perfect for couples wanting to retreat from their busy everyday lives. This little slice of heaven allows for the perfect place to reenergize and recharge, even if it’s only for a weekend.

The bustling Coromandel township is a short drive down the road, or an easy walk if distance doesn’t bother you.

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Driving Creek is a great day out for everyone, young or old. With plenty of things to see and do, Driving Creek has something to keep everyone entertained.