Taieri Gorge

Dunedin's historic railway station is the gateway to one of the world's most scenic railway journeys. At around $100 for a ticket, you can enjoy over four hours cruising along through the Taieri Gorge. It's stunning, peaceful and if you're lucky, you'll enjoy a whole carriage to yourself. Well, if you choose to stay inside. I spent most of the trip hanging off the back of the train enjoying the views.

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Following the bends in the river, crossing many beautiful bridges and chugging along through narrow grooves in the rocks, you most certainly won't be disappointed with this train ride.

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There's even a buffet car when you can enjoy a glass of vino or a packet of crisps as you watch the world go by. The commentary by the guide is interesting and you'll actually learn a thing or two about the original railway that ran through Central Otago and how it's predominantly now a famous cycling trail.

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I did the journey by myself and didn't fit the regular middle-aged cruise ship passenger but nonetheless it was a good way to spend an afternoon and I met some very interesting people along the route.