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The Taieri Gorge Railway is one of those experiences that earns its reputation quietly. Old Mitsubishi railcars (the new ones don't fit through the tunnels, which tells you something about this route), a string of bridges, tunnels, and dramatic gorge scenery rolling past the windows. The commentary runs throughout the whole train, inside and out, and it's genuinely good. Most people who've done it say the same thing: just sit back and let it come to you.

My pick is to go all the way to Middlemarch rather than a shorter return. The scenery builds and the full journey is worth it. It does come up as a touch expensive for some travellers, so use promo code RANKERS to save yourself 10%, which helps take the edge off that a little.

Photo stops are well timed and plentiful, so bring a decent camera. A few reviewers noted it can feel less jaw-dropping if you've just come from somewhere like Fiordland, which is fair enough. But on its own terms, this is a beautifully built railway through impressive country, and the volunteer crew are a highlight in themselves.