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Waitomo Express - 1918 Train Carriage

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Photo gallery for Waitomo Express - 1918 Train Carriage

Interior
Property grounds
2 bedrooms, free WiFi
Hair dryer
2 bedrooms, free WiFi

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
Waitomo, Waikato
  • Place, Woodlyn Park
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Caveworld
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Waitomo Glowworm Caves
    ‪4 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Waitomo Caves

This guesthouse places you next to Woodlyn Park and within a mile (2 km) of Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Guestrooms at this guesthouse include kitchenettes, refrigerators, and microwaves.
View more Guest Houses in Waitomo CavesOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Woodlyn Park - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Waitomo Caves Discovery Centre - 2 min drive - 0.9 miles
  • Caveworld - 3 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Waitomo Glowworm Caves - 4 min drive - 1.4 miles
  • Mystery Creek Events Centre - 55 min drive - 51.0 miles

Getting around

  • Hamilton (HLZ-Hamilton Intl.) - 54 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Golden Lantern Takeaways - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Waitomo Homestead - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Huhu Cafe - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Waitomo General Store - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Bosco Café - ‬15 min drive

About this property

Waitomo Express - 1918 Train Carriage

The first accommodation created at Woodlyn Park, "The Waitomo Express" is a restored 1918 Rail Carriage.

It is a completely self-contained motel unit with two separate bedrooms.

This unit can sleep up to 5 people. It has a double bed and a separate room with three single beds.

There is an ensuite bathroom with shower and toilet, as well as a living/eating area with kitchenette at the entrance of the train carriage. The kitchenette features an electric hob, microwave and refrigerator for light meals.

Bedding Configuration
One double bed and a separate room with 3 single beds (1 single and 2 bunk).

Office open until 5PM, after hours staff available until 11pm
Price is for couple per night,
Max guest 5
$20 per extra person
Guests can enjoy a TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a kitchenette, a refrigerator, and a microwave.

Similar properties

Property grounds
Palm Court Motel
Otorohanga
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, 145 reviews
$76 nightly
The price is $88
Jul 30 - Jul 31
Total with taxes and fees
Palm Court Motel

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Internet access

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Things to do

  • Playground

Outdoors

  • Outdoor furniture
  • Picnic area

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Grab bar near toilet
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking

More

  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom

Entertainment

  • TV

Food and drink

  • Dining table
  • Kitchenette
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Heating

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • This property doesn't allow children

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.

Property is also known as

Express 1918 Train Carriage Change Listing Preview Listing

Frequently asked questions

What can I see close to this guesthouse?

This guesthouse is located in Waitomo Caves, just steps from Woodlyn Park. You'll also find Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Opapake Pa within a short drive.

How much does it cost to stay at Waitomo Express - 1918 Train Carriage?

As of Jun 29, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Waitomo Express - 1918 Train Carriage on Jul 1, 2026 start from $134, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Will I be able to park at Waitomo Express - 1918 Train Carriage?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the guesthouse. Wheelchair-accessible parking is also available for guests.

Is this guesthouse next to a casino?

No, this guesthouse is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this guesthouse?

No, there is no indoor pool at this guesthouse.

Is Waitomo Express - 1918 Train Carriage a good place to stay for couples?

Couples will appreciate amenities at this guesthouse, including a kitchenette in each accommodation plus a kitchenette and free WiFi in some.

Does Waitomo Express - 1918 Train Carriage have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this guesthouse.

Does this guesthouse offer breakfast?

No, this guesthouse doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this guesthouse allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at this guesthouse.

Does Waitomo Express - 1918 Train Carriage have connecting rooms available?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this guesthouse.

What is the closest airport to this guesthouse?

The closest major airport to this guesthouse is Hamilton (HLZ-Hamilton Intl.), which is about 29.1 mi away.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Waitomo Express - 1918 Train Carriage?

No, you won't find accommodations with balconies at Waitomo Express - 1918 Train Carriage.

Waitomo Express - 1918 Train Carriage Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 16 out of 29 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 29 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 29 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 29 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 29 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

7.8/10

Staff & service

5.6/10

Amenities

7.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

8/10 Good

Jennifer L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Welcoming host, basic accommodation but very clean and peaceful location.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mandie T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was such a neat accommodation! Owners were very flexible with our early arrival and they were very friendly.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great quirky accommodation - you don’t get to stay in a train very often. It was exactly as described and met our expectations. Given the limitations and age of the carriage they have done a great job of providing a comfortable and functional space.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just Perfect

Our stay here was just perfect, from the moment we arrived until the moment we left. A must do again..
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Henry v.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical Stay

Excellent service. Well thought out accommodation
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kirsty N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique Experience

The most unique place to stay, did not disappoint and so glad we chose to have this experience on our NZ holiday. Staff were amazing and so knowledgeable of the area as well, thank you for the warm welcome and comfortable stay. Highly recommend.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Christine E.

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Unique stay

Quirky, interesting, different
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Debbie F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Something different

We really enjoyed the repurposed train car, it was just right for 2. It also has a bedroom for 3 more, but given the 1 bath, our 2 were enough. Walking distance to both principal restaurants and market, as well as glow worm cave. Very pleased to have stayed here.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ann H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful adventure

This most unusual accommodation – in a train car – is located in an extremely peaceful and quiet valley. The place has other unusual accommodations like an airplane and a hobbit motel. Check in at the front office was very easy and professional. Would love to go there again.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steve H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique

Very unique vrbo. Everything was great. The check in hours were limited though
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing how they were able to equip the train carriage with modern amenities while retaining the original charm. Bath was an add on unit with full fixtures but integrated with the train. Good AC and heating options and nice kitchenette. Check out the fabulous Hobbit and ferrry boat options.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
A unique experience
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024
Verified

6/10 Okay

MARTHA

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Interesting facility. Second bedroom is only accessible through the first bedroom, as was the bathroom. A bit shabby but clean. Beautiful views.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Lonnie

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was nice but the room was filthy. Beds were terrible. You roll in to the middle. We had bugs crawling on the sheets in the bedrooms. Had to dust cobwebs above the bed. Killed multiple bugs inside after all windows and doors were closed. Reached out to management. They did offer to switch to a different room but it was late and would have been more difficult to move. We covered up with our clothes and did not use any bedding. A lot disappointed as we were looking forward to our stay on my husbands bday. Would be super cute if it received someTLC and a deep clean.
The lights inside
Ants crawling freely
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Katherine M.

Different

The train carriage was cute & different. It was comfortable & the sun in the afternoon warmed the carriage up beautifully.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019
Verified

8/10 Good

Alisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Staying in the train car was a unique and enjoyable experience. It had everything we needed. Note: the wifi hotspot is strongest in the bathroom lol! The location was convenient to Waitomo and the host offered suggestions of nearby sites to visit. We took a drive to see the natural bridge, cave, and waterfall, all of which were close together and a short walk from the road. Highly recommend those! And star gazing at night from the little deck was amazing. Overall a great stay with lots of special memories for me and my family!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Ken H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rest break

All good but did not like having the bed where it was. One side is against the wall. It was like being in a caravan, hard to get in and out of the bed without waking my partner.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2023
Verified

4/10 Poor

Ron

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The train car itself was very nice. Our issue was that when we tried to take ahowers in the morning we found that there was no hot water, so therefore no morning showers. There was no staff on site to help (office hours are only for a couple of hours in the afternoons). We emailed the mgt. about the issue but never got a reply. Would not stay there again.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ali E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fun Stay Close to the Caves

My friend and I stayed in the train car for one night following the Black Abyss Waitomo Caves excursion. I didn’t want to drive far in the dark after our cave adventure, and the train car was less than a 5 minute drive away. The train car is extremely well maintained. Back room can be a bit chilly as the heating unit is in the central bedroom, but there were plenty of blankets to keep warm. I would describe the larger bed as on the firm (but comfy!) side and the back bedroom beds as being less firm/more springy. The amount of space inside was impressive. The setting is absolutely serene. WIFI was decent for that kind of rural area. The host was excellent at communicating and happily accommodated our need for a contactless late night self check in. We couldn’t be happier and would stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Regi G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Carriage

So cozy and warm, very clean and tidy, best sleep we have had for a very long time. Thank you Just a suggestion, maybe write up some history on the carriage if you have it or can access it. That would be pretty cool to be able to read about the carriages life
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aaron E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Close to the Caves and very charming

It was lovely to be able to go right from our cave tours to this lodging. A three minute drive. And the Huhu cafe right back up the road was an easy and good dinner--nice recommendation at checkin. Above all we enjoyed the charming train car as a unique place to stay. Everything was comfortable, and the curved roof panels and nice bathroom added to the back were nice touches.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quirky, Warm and Cozy..

Loved it!!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Maree G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quirky and comfortable

Stayed in the converted train carriage. Cleverly laid out accommodation making full use of the carriage. Close to Waitomo caves and other activities. Lovely rural outlook.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Denise C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Overnight stay

Loved the unique experience. Beds could do with upgrading to ensure a comfortable sleep.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marama F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

bucolic

fun quirky accommodation and idyllic rural location
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2020