Photo of Thames Small Gauge Railway in Waikato1 / 3
Trains & Railways

Thames Small Gauge Railway

📍 Thames, Waikato

★4.4(113 Google reviews)

A cherished community railway running scenic waterfront rides along the Thames foreshore. Generations of local children have grown up riding these tracks, and grandkids still add it to the must-do list whenever they visit Nana and Poppa in Thames.

✓ Multi-generational favourite✓ Waterfront setting✓ Train rides✓ Affordable
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★★★★★Featured review by Mike Smith

Dearest Thames Small Guage Railway. My children have both had their lives enriched by your being there. Of course covid is now making life difficult for you and my children are growing up so we don't see you so much. Hope you're able to weather the storm with covid. Next time I see you open I'll go get some change and buy a ride.

🏆 Family Action Verdict

A genuine kiwi classic for families with young train fans. The rides are affordable, the setting is gorgeous, and the multi-generational warmth reviewers describe is hard to find anywhere else. Works well as part of a Thames waterfront morning.

â„šī¸ What to Know Before You Go

💡Check the Facebook page for current operating schedule before visiting
⏰Combine with a waterfront walk for a relaxed morning out
đŸŽŸī¸Bring small change for ride tickets as mentioned by regulars
🚗Pram access available along the waterfront

đŸ’Ŧ What Families Are Saying

View all reviews →
4.4
★★★★★

113 Google reviews

Kids and grandkids love the rides70%
Beautiful waterfront setting20%
Affordable family activity10%
M

Mike Smith

4 years ago

★★★★★

“Dearest Thames Small Guage Railway. My children have both had their lives enriched by your being there. Of course covid is now making life difficult for you and my children are growing up so we don't see you so much. Hope you're able to weather the storm with covid. Next time I see you open I'll go get some change and buy a ride.”

J

Janie Yang

3 weeks ago

★★★★★

“Recommend taking a morning walk along the waterfront railway. Very chill and relaxing, with nice views of the water and a peaceful vibe to start the day. A great spot to slow down and enjoy the town.”

T

Trisha Trent

7 months ago

★★★★★

“My grandchildren love the train rides , and it's always on there list when visiting Nana & Poppa in Thames. 😅”

Y

Yolanda Kirkbeck

6 years ago

★★★★★

“We Love giving Children Train Rides ...Photos are of Children Day in Victoria Park....lots of Fun”

Reviews from Google

Overview

Thames Small Gauge Railway winds along the waterfront on Brown Street, offering classic small gauge train rides with peaceful water views and a relaxed small-town atmosphere. The railway has enriched childhoods across multiple generations of Thames families. Morning walkers enjoy strolling the route for the chill harbour scenery even when rides aren't running. Check the Facebook page for current operating days before making a special trip.

🕐 Opening Hours

Sunday10:00 – 14:00