North Pole Express — On Track Events

On Track Events runs the North Pole Express in Kapiti. Families ride in specially decorated carriages to the sounds of carols while the train goes off to collect Santa, who has been transported to an undisclosed location along the line. The operator says passengers meet the conductor and join singing and dancing led by carriage hosts and other characters.

When the train reaches its secret meeting spot, Santa's elves are on the platform and Santa himself boards. On the way back Santa appears in each carriage and gives every passenger a souvenir ornament, while characters in each carriage lead carolling and entertainment.

The operator sells Cocoa Class and Candy Class tickets; Candy Class passengers travel in additional comfort and are also served cocoa, cookies and candy on board along with extra treats. The ticket includes entertainers, carolling, iced cocoa, cookies, a souvenir mug and a special souvenir from Santa.

At the station there are opportunities to interact with the cast before departure. On board there are carols, characters, Santa and the souvenirs listed above. The train is fully enclosed, departs regardless of weather and has bathroom facilities on board. Seating is arranged in groups of four seats, so groups should buy their tickets in one order to sit together. Food allergies cannot be catered for, but passengers may bring their own food and drink on board.

Boards at Paraparaumu Train Station, the venue named on the operator's Eventbrite ticketing pages. Tickets are emailed and must be shown, with the confirmation email and a valid photo ID, at the station 20 minutes before departure. There are no ticket sales on the day, no discounts and no waiting list; a fee applies to every ticket change, all sales are final and no refunds are given. There is no separate adult and child fare; every passenger aged 2 or over needs a ticket, and children under 2 travel free on an adult's lap. Children aged 13 and under must be accompanied by a supervising, fare-paying adult. The carriages have stairs and narrow doorways, so wheelchairs cannot be used on board; passengers who can step onto the train with an able-bodied carer's help can be assisted if they tell the operator before booking. Foldable pushchairs are stored in the guard's van. An Eventbrite ticketing fee applies.