Dunedin (Port Chalmers) - our first port
We put our alarm on for an early start as we had booked the Taieri Gorge train trip which was a 5 1/2 hr trip. We ordered room service breakfast which saved us a bit of time and was a good way to start a busy day.
The ship berthed in Port Chalmers at 8 am and we were ready to disembark at 8.15 am for our trip. As we had booked this trip through Princess we were able to board the train right at the port and only had to walk about 50 metres. I'm not sure how many carriages were on the train, possibly 20, but we were directed to a carriage near the back so had an extra walk but once on we didn't have long to wait before we were chugging along. The seating was arranged with a table between each set of 4 seats, so we found some empty seats and before long we had an American couple who took the remaining seats. We enjoyed their company as it was interesting to hear the stories of their travels.
We were treated very well on the trip with the stewards bringing snacks and drinks and a commentary which was often difficult to hear as most passengers around us were having conversations, but it was all very friendly and enjoyable.
For lunch we were supplied with a boxed lunch including fruit and a dessert which was good and wine was also served and the stewards came around filling up our glasses constantly. No wonder I didn't want to venture out onto the platform!
The Taieri Gorge is over 40 km long on the Taieri River.
 |
| This photo was taken off the brochure advertising the trip as it wasn't possible to get a good photo. |
We were able to move about in the carriages but most passengers stayed seated as the views were great from the windows, just not so good for photos.
At some points along the route Ron was able to stand outside on the platform and get some good photos so I have included some of his as they are better than mine. I didn't go outside as my balance isn't always the best and I didn't want to fall over or worse! You can see from the photos that the train was very long and as we rounded the bends we got a glimpse of the front carriages.
 |
| The Taieri River |
The train stopped at Pukerangi which was the turnaround point of our trip. We were able to get off the train here and walk around. Some of the local people had stalls here selling hand made souvenirs and other art works.
After our stop at Pukerangi the train headed off towards Dunedin where we alighted at the famous Dunedin Railway Station. We walked around the station and took more photos before going back to the ship.
 |
| Inside the station |
 |
| Dunedin Station platform |
 |
| A view of the ship as we got off the train |
Another great day, but we were happy to be back on the ship, as it was a long day. This excursion was one of the highlights of our New Zealand holiday as the last time we were in Dunedin we didn't do this trip but saw Larnach Castle and other sightseeing around the city.
