PAEKĀKĀRIKI TRAIN FIELD GUIDE
Steam, Straw Hats and Market Madness: A Day Aboard The Mad Hatters Market Express
A return steam-hauled day trip from Paekākāriki to Woodville’s Mad Hatter’s Market Day — this guide explains what to expect, where to board, and how to prepare.
Steam, Straw Hats and Market Madness: A Day Aboard The Mad Hatters Market Express.
Adventure brief
Steam, Straw Hats and Market Madness: A Day Aboard The Mad Hatters Market Express
Board a heritage steam train in Paekākāriki and ride into the Manawatu for Woodville’s Mad Hatter’s Market Day — a family-oriented celebration of live music, more than 70 market stalls, children's tea-party activities and the annual Crazy Hat Competition.
Set against the scenic backdrop of New Zealand’s Wairarapa region, The Mad Hatters Market Express offers an unforgettable journey that blends history, community, and whimsy into one lively day out. This charming steam train excursion departs Paekākāriki, nestled in the Wellington region, and rolls along breathtaking rail lines toward Woodville, where the lively Mad Hatter's Market Day unfolds each year. Celebrating Woodville’s 150th anniversary, this event has evolved into a vibrant community festival that draws visitors eager to soak in its festive atmosphere.
The ride itself is a step back in time, aboard a meticulously maintained steam engine operated by Steam Inc. As the countryside glides past, travelers can settle into vintage carriages that echo the heyday of rail travel with their polished woodwork and classic brass fittings. This isn’t just transportation—it’s an immersive experience where the rhythmic chuff of the steam engine harmonizes with scenic farmland, rolling hills, and native bush.
Upon arrival in Woodville, attendees discover a bustling market square packed with over 70 stalls featuring local artisans, craftspeople, and gourmet food vendors. The vibrant market is marked by colorful tents and animated chatter, offering unique wares from hand-made jewelry to artisan preserves. Families are especially drawn to the whimsical children’s tea party, a highlight that fosters laughter and imagination, perfectly complementing the market’s playful character.
Adding to the day’s charm is the Crazy Hat Competition, a spirited showdown that lights up the crowd with inventive, eccentric, and downright hilarious headwear. Spot prizes and live music keep energy levels high, creating a laid-back festival vibe that’s accessible to all ages.
The Mad Hatters Market Express is not just a trip; it’s a celebration of community spirit paired beautifully with New Zealand’s rural charm. It also serves as a reminder of the region’s rail legacy, offering a unique way to explore the Wellington hinterlands. This excursion is outstanding in its ability to blend heritage tourism with local culture and hands-on family entertainment, making it a standout destination for visitors searching for authentic and memorable outdoor experiences.
Whether you’re a steam train enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply looking for a family-friendly excursion beyond the usual, this day trip from Paekākāriki to Woodville is a memorable way to embrace local traditions and the warmth of New Zealand’s small-town celebrations.
Route Schematic
Route schematic and stops
The Express picks up at coastal and Horowhenua stations before running inland to Woodville; on arrival passengers may walk to the market square or use a shuttle.
Paekākāriki (boarding)
One of the boarding stations where passengers can join the train for the return trip to Woodville.
Intermediate boarding points
The train also calls at Paraparaumu, Waikanae, Otaki, Levin and Palmerston North for boarding; seating is reserved and allocated at booking.
Woodville arrival
On arrival at Woodville passengers can either walk up to the market square or transfer to a shuttle bus to reach the heart of the event.
Heritage carriages are not suitable for passengers with limited mobility due to their age and design; contact the bookings team to discuss options. Timetable and arrangements are provisional and may be subject to operator changes.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A century-old locomotive and heritage carriages
The service is hauled by Ab 608, a steam locomotive built in 1915, and runs as a return trip carrying reserved, allocated seating — a heritage journey as much as the market destination.
More than 70 stalls, food trucks and local flavours
Woodville’s Mad Hatter’s Market Day features over 70 market stalls, a lineup of food trucks and local cafés to explore, plus tea and coffee on board the train and light snacks and alcoholic beverages available during the trip.
Crazy hats, a children’s tea party and spot prizes
The event emphasises family activities — a whimsical children’s tea party, old-time games with a steampunk focus, the annual Crazy Hat Competition and spot prizes and vouchers handed out through the day.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
It’s a convivial, outing-style experience: passengers join the steam-hauled train at one of the Kapiti–Horowhenua or Palmerston North boarding points, travel into the heart of the Manawatu, disembark at Woodville, then walk up to the square or take a shuttle bus to the market. Expect reserved seating, a provisional timetable for the return trip, and a market day built around costumes, music and family activities.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should check alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring your ticket, carriage number and seating allocation and be at your boarding station at least 10 minutes before departure.
Tea and coffee are available on board; there are also some alcoholic beverages and light snacks for sale during the trip.
All seating is reserved and allocated and prior booking is essential. Fares vary by boarding point; group bookings of 10+ should contact the operator for a personalized package.
Due to the age and design of the heritage carriages, they are not suitable for passengers with limited mobility — contact the bookings team to discuss if you have concerns.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where can I board the Mad Hatters Market Express?
You can join the train at Paekākāriki, Paraparaumu, Waikanae, Otaki, Levin or Palmerston North.
Is seating reserved?
Yes — all seating is reserved and allocated on these special experiences; prior booking is essential.
Are infants charged?
Infants travel free on this service.
Which locomotive will haul the train?
The train is hauled by Ab 608, a steam locomotive built in 1915.
What if I have limited mobility?
The heritage carriages are not suitable for passengers with limited mobility; contact the bookings team on 0800 783 264 to discuss your needs.
How do I make a group booking?
For group bookings of 10 or more contact Steam Incorporated via [email protected] or call 0800 783 264 for a personalized package.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-05T19:27:19.397Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.