Catching the train from Western Hutt to Wellington City Centre (NZ) is easy once you know how. The train line to look for is the Melling - Wellington line.
Step 1
Realise that the train station is actually on the other side of a pub. What was once the actual station has been refurbished into a pub.
Step 2
Simply enter the shopping precinct with signs to the "Station Café" and cross the courtyard towards the pub. There is a little laneway next to the pub with open gates leading out to the platform. Go up this lane and through the gates and wait on the platform.
Step 3
Make it obvious that you want to catch the train and that you are not just using the platform for a place to smoke or down a beer. The driver will be able to see you clearly. Remember to keep well behind the indicated yellow line.
Step 4
Note that the Melling - Wellington line only runs weekdays. The timetable is about hourly, a little more frequently during morning and evening rush hour. If you want to catch a train on the weekends, you will have to get a bus (or take a very long hike) to the nearest stations, Petone or Ava.
Step 5
Sit back and enjoy the journey into the city centre. It is very scenic as the train travels alongside the harbour.
Step 6
Wait until the train draws into a large station. This is the end of the line, Wellington. If you're not sure, watch for the emptying of the train, conductor included. To come back home, do it all in reverse, and if needed you can ask for assistance at Wellington Station.
Tips
- Currently there is an offpeak price available for adults on the line that ends around 3pm. This will save you a little cash.
- Payment for your ticket occurs on the train. A conductor will come through asking for the money and they prefer exact cash if you have it.
- The train is faster than the bus.
