British and Irish Lions tour: On the lash with the Lions

By Tristram Clayton

Kiwirail had enjoyed one of its busiest off-season days in years thanks to the visiting Barmy Army of Lions' supporters.

The 11-hour Northern Explorer train from Auckland to Wellington was filled to capacity with 193 mainly British and Irish rugby fans filling the seats.

Peter Wellington enjoys the scenery on the Northern Explorer. Picture / NZME

For Paul and Jackie Holvey from Lincoln in the North of England the train trip was a dream come true.

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"It's been a highlight of our trip so far," said Mr Holvey.

"You get to see so many different parts of the country and you can have a drink at the same time."

Claire Cook from Aberdeen in Scotland quit her job as a teacher's assistant to come to New Zealand for the first time.

Lions fans take pictures of the scenery on the Northern Explorer. Picture / NZME

"I decided I needed six weeks to see the country properly, so I gave up my job to come," she said.

"It's been fantastic. The mountains, rivers and forests are beautiful. And I've been amazed by the number of sheep I've seen."

Skip Houston enjoys the view over the Rangiteiki Gorge on the Northern Explorer. Picture / NZME

The British and Irish Lions play the Hurricanes tonight before the second test against the All Blacks on Saturday.