Driving Creek Railway | Scenic Train Ride Coromandel

January 17, 2025

A Kiwi Rail Experience Like No Other

Tucked into the native bush just above Coromandel Town, Driving Creek Railway isn’t your average train ride. This narrow-gauge track winds through lush forest, past handmade sculptures, and up to a stunning lookout point—offering a perfect mix of nature, engineering, and artistic flair.

Created by the late Barry Brickell, a legendary New Zealand potter, engineer, and conservationist, this railway began as a means to transport clay for his studio. Today, it's one of the Coromandel Peninsula’s most-loved attractions.

What to See and Do at Driving Creek Railway

There’s plenty more here than just the train ride. Plan to spend a few hours and explore all this unique site has to offer:

Ride the Famous Mountain Railway

Journey through regenerating native forest
Pass hand-built bridges, tunnels, and ceramic sculptures
Reach the Eyefull Tower for sweeping views over the Coromandel
Enjoy onboard commentary about Barry’s vision and the landscape

Driving Creek train winding through native trees and bush

Soar on the Zipline Adventure

8 zipline crossings over forest canopy
Guided eco-tour included
Family-friendly, suitable for kids (minimum age applies)
High-speed fun with stunning natural views

Visit the Original Pottery Studio

Explore where Barry Brickell crafted his iconic ceramics
View working kilns and pottery demonstrations
Browse artisan ceramics and gifts in the gallery

Perfect for Families and Curious Travellers

Whether you’re travelling with kids, parents or heading off on a couple’s weekend away, Driving Creek ticks all the boxes:

Educational and interactive for children
Relaxing and scenic for older visitors
Creative and inspiring for art lovers
Easy access and good facilities, including parking and toilets

Family enjoying their ride aboard the Driving Creek Railway train

Visitors enjoying panoramic views from EyeFull Tower at Driving Creek Railway summit

Women shaping clay on wheels during a pottery class at Driving Creek

Young woman smiling before launching from the zipline platform in Coromandel

Zipline guide welcomes guest to forest platform at Driving Creek in Coromandel

Visitors boarding the Driving Creek Railway train at the main station

Driving Creek train passing a sculpted terracotta wall along the railway

Aerial view of Driving Creek Railway train weaving through forest tracks

Driving Creek Railway train emerging from a forest tunnel

Sunset view of Driving Creek Railway train arriving at EyeFull Tower lookout

Close-up of hands shaping and finishing a pottery bowl on the wheel at Driving Creek

Male student forming clay pieces during a Driving Creek pottery workshop

Close-up of hands shaping clay with help from an instructor at Driving Creek

Smiling student working on clay in a pottery class at Driving Creek

Unfired clay bowls stacked inside a pottery kiln at Driving Creek

Students cleaning tools and chatting in Driving Creek pottery studio

Student shaping clay on a pottery wheel during class at Driving Creek

Instructor demonstrating pottery to a small group during a Driving Creek class

View through window of pottery students in class at Driving Creek

Pottery class tutor demonstrating wheel throwing at Driving Creek

Smiling family in harnesses ready for Coromandel Zipline Tour at Driving Creek

Person jumping from elevated zipline platform into the forest canopy at Driving Creek

Zipliner seen from above gliding over dense native ferns and forest canopy

Tour group waiting on elevated zipline platform in the native Coromandel forest

Adult ziplining high above the treetops in Coromandel’s native forest

Child ziplining across lush native bush with mountain views at Driving Creek

Family group and guides ready to begin Coromandel Zipline Tour at Driving Creek

Don’t Miss the Gift Shop

Unique NZ-made pottery and souvenirs
Books on Barry Brickell and NZ railway heritage
Great spot to pick up thoughtful gifts

Final Thoughts

Driving Creek Railway captures the heart of what makes New Zealand so special—stunning landscapes, creative spirit, and deep respect for nature. Whether you're here for the ride, the art, or the adrenaline, it’s a stop you won’t forget on your North Island journey.

Aerial view of Cathedral Cove with turquoise water, white cliffs, and lush native forest on the Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

Looking for More Coromandel Attractions?

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