Train Rides · Māngere

Manukau Live Steamers

4.8240 Google reviews

Toddlers (0–3)Younger kids (4–8)Outdoors

How muchTe utu: $3
Their siteHe pārongo atu anō: mls.org.nz
Last checkedI tirohia: Last checked 13 Aug 2026

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LocationTe wāhi

Māngere

Ngā Hau Māngere / Māngere Centre Park, Robertson Road, Māngere, Auckland 2022

Directions Website

What it is

Tucked among the trees at Ngā Hau Māngere / Māngere Centre Park, the Manukau Live Steamers run a miniature railway that is a scale version of the real thing — loops of track curving through the park, a long bridge over its wettest corner, and a station of its own at Massey Junction. Club members have been building and driving these locomotives here since the early 1980s, and on public days it is those same members at the controls, perched behind engines they made by hand. Families join the queue at the station and ride in open carriages behind whatever is running that day. Younger children tend to be transfixed by the smoke and the whistle; older ones ask the drivers how it works and get a proper answer. The trains run for the public every Sunday, weather permitting, with the park's playground and open grass alongside for afterwards.

What other parents say

Matt Thoma year ago

Went for the kids.. Stayed for the adults!. What a gem! Very well run, super friendly staff, good prices, and worth the wait! We went on a Sunday afternoon and there were lots of people. Although we waited about 10 minutes, the time went quickly as we enjoyed watching the trains come and go. With many different trains to ride, and different tracks to take, you could easily spend several hours here. Or just visit many times! We were a mix of adults and kids (aged from 6 to 16)... And I don't know who had the most fun! Definitely recommend, and we'll definitely be back!

Yo_Mafz5 months ago

Fantastic cosy space for families on a nice warm Sunday. Friendly & helpful team with 2 ride options. We enjoyed our adventure today 😃🙌🏽

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Logan S.a year ago

🚂 All Aboard the $3 Happiness Express! 🚂 Took a quick trip back to childhood (without needing a time machine) at Manukau Live Steamers and dude, for just $3 a ride, it’s an absolute steal. Whether you're 5 or 50, this tiny train got room for your big dreams and adult responsibilities to chill for a bit. Plenty of parking on site, toilets are clean (always a W), and the queue? Long but moving like a pro. Don’t be that person who jumps in line without a ticket tho, grab it from the counter first! 😅 There are two tracks: 🌿 The Garden Ride - Chill vibes, scenery, take your time. 🕳️ Hill & Tunnel Ride - Now this one got me grinning like I found Wi-Fi in a jungle. A bit more thrilling with a tunnel to spice it up! Friendly volunteers, smooth service, and all-around good energy. I’ll be back. Probably dragging some friends along next time for the full Thomas & Friends reunion. 🚂💨 “Logan was here waiting in line like it’s Disneyland - but on a budget.”

Michael Tolich2 years ago

Visited with a friend from Canada who is involved with a similar group there. The volunteers were very welcoming and the set up is excellent with decent length rides available. There were lot's of kids and parents riding the trains and obviously enjoying themselves. I'd certainly recommend a visit.

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