+64 22 573 7101
Welcome to Waipara Sleepers
Relax Recharge Unwind
Welcome to Waipara Sleepers, where we will do our utmost to make your stay relaxing and memorable. Our beds are comfortable and our garden setting perfect for kicking back and enjoying a book, glass of wine or just some quiet time. Book a room today or get in touch to learn more.......
The Story of Waipara Sleepers
A little bit of history
The first half of the twentieth century was a ‘golden age' for rail, almost everyone travelling between major centres took the railway. Trains also delivered schoolchildren to the classroom, suburban workers to factories and offices, and thousands of day-trippers to beaches, parks, shows and racecourses.
From the 1950s, rail's central role in the daily life of New Zealanders began to erode, as travellers opted to drive or fly rather than use passenger trains. Sadly Branch lines around the country were progressively closed.
In the early 1990s four of the 1940s decommissioned rail cars were transported from Christchurch to Waipara and over the years have been carefully restored into comfortable accommodation for sleeping and relaxing, mindful to maintain the 1940s charm.
From the moment you drive in, you’ll feel how special Waipara Sleepers is. Original features, super comfortable beds and separate balconies to enjoy a wine, are only part of the story. Take a look at our site to learn more, and book your room today.
We have a number of options to suit most travelers or holiday makers including four 1940's train carriages, with three perched on railway lines just to add to the character. We have a Double Wagon ideal for couples with its own balcony and sitting room and a Twin Wagon with a double and single bed suitable for couples or weekend getaways. We also have, two wagons set up as bunks (each four berth) which will appeal to the budget conscious. Click here for more accommodation and campsite options,
1940's Rail Wagons
Our Services
Shower Facilities
Barbeque
Vehicle Access
TV/Library room
Laundry Facilities
Quaint and quirky. Small country, campground with space for campervans, some cabins and some super cute railcars converted to cabins. Not new but, clean and tidy. Well loved and charming in a shabby chic way. Lots of lovely garden and trees and birdsong and, new owners are very friendly and working hard to show this fantastic campground the love it deserves.
Service: 5/5 Location: 5/5
Food and drinks
Lots of wineries and great wine in Waipara. Kings truffles are nearby for truffle purchase, tasting and tours in season by arrangement. Limestone Hills also grow 4 types of truffle and, grapes and walnuts.
Niki P
Stayed at Waipara Sleepers and really enjoyed it! Such a cool and unique spot, especially for someone that doesn’t travel often. Sleeping in an old train carriage was way more comfy than I expected. The place has a really chill vibe, and the owners were super friendly and welcoming.
It’s quiet, relaxing, and close to some great wineries too. Perfect little getaway if you want something different without being too far from Christchurch. Definitely recommend and plan to stay again in the future.
Joosh