Train Rides

Waipuna Minature Trains

Tucked into Peterson Reserve beside the Panmure Basin in Mt Wellington, the Waipuna Miniature Railway has been drawing Auckland families to its platform for generations. On a typical Sunday, a club locomotive hauls two or three passenger carriages around a cleverly laid-out track that gives the impression of a much longer journey — threading through tunnels, crossing bridges, and climbing an elevated trestle section. Occasionally a second locomotive joins in, and live steam engines add their own particular drama to the afternoon.

How muchTe utu: $2–$5
Ages: 0–34–8
WhereKei hea: Mt Wellington
Rating: 4.9; 46 on Google

Get directions Their websiteasme.org.nz

Perfect for

Train Rides Outdoor Activities Toddler Activities

LocationTe wāhi

Mt Wellington

Peterson Road

Directions Website

What it is

The whole operation is run entirely by ASME volunteers, which gives the place an unhurried, community-feel charm. A large boat pond run by the Scale Marine Modellers Club adds another layer of interest once the ride is done.

The surrounding reserve is well suited to a relaxed picnic on the grass with the basin as a backdrop, and the concession ticket system makes it easy for families to let younger passengers ride again and again. It is not unusual to find grandparents, parents and children all queuing together at Waipuna Junction.

What other parents say

Nesh khalifa3 months ago

Nice small train ride in the park. Good for kids and families. The ride is fun but short, going around the green area. Trains run only on Sundays from 1pm to 4pm, so need to come at the right time. Simple and nice weekend activity.

紐西男2 months ago

A fun little train experience that’s definitely worth the ticket price. After the ride, you can enjoy a relaxing walk around the lake, which makes the visit even better. It’s a great spot for families, especially with kids, and also perfect for cycling or a casual stroll. A lovely place to spend a few hours outdoors.

Read 3 more reviews ↓

Alex Tjahjana6 months ago

It was a great experience. The people are friendly, knowledgeable and accommodating. The rides were fun for both adults and children. My son was just keep going for more rides. Also have a lawn inside the track loop with a few seats, great for picnic, lunch or having a break from riding the miniature trains. They only accept cash or bank transfer. There's an ice cream van in the vicinity that sometime can do cash out; though I recommend you to bring cash to avoid all the hassle.

Joanne Lima year ago

A Hidden Gem for Family Fun! Waipuna Miniature Trains is an absolute delight for families, especially young train enthusiasts! Though it’s only open to the public on Sundays from 1 PM to 4 PM，the short operating hours make it a special weekend treat. My kids adore riding the miniature trains, and at just $2 per ride .it’s an affordable and nostalgic experience. The trains are well-maintained, and the tracks wind through charming scenery, making each ride exciting. What truly makes this place special is the dedicated team of volunteers who run it. Their passion and hard work create a welcoming, joyful atmosphere for visitors. They operate the trains with such care and enthusiasm, ensuring every child and adult! leaves with a smile. It’s heartwarming to see a community-driven attraction that brings so much happiness to families. A few tips for visitors: - Bring plenty of $2 coins（or change) for multiple rides—kids will definitely want to go more than once! - Arrive early, as it can get busy. - Pack a picnic—there’s space to relax while kids watch the trains go by. - Don’t forget sunscreen and hats on sunny days, as shade is limited. This place runs on passion, not profit, so supporting it helps keep the magic alive. We’re so grateful for the volunteers who make these memories possible. If you’re looking for a simple, wholesome, and budget-friendly outing, Waipuna Miniature Trains is a must-visit! Highly recommended for families with young children.🚂💛

Anshul sharma11 months ago