KiwiRail Northern Explorer Manuhiri Carriage

Overview

In late 2024, Intelligent Environments partnered with zencontrol to deliver a custom lighting control solution for KiwiRail’s latest Scenic Plus carriage — Manuhiri, a luxurious addition to the renowned Northern Explorer route. Following the success of previous Scenic Plus upgrades on the South Island’s Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine lines, this North Island project brought the same level of innovation and sophistication to the journey between Wellington and Auckland.

With lighting playing a crucial role in passenger experience, Intelligent Environments was tasked with integrating a system that would enhance the aesthetics, functionality, and ambience of KiwiRail’s newest premium carriage.

Objectives

The goal for this project was clear: design and implement a flexible, robust, and visually impactful lighting control system that:

• Enhances the premium onboard experience through mood-responsive lighting
• Seamlessly integrates with the carriage’s bespoke interior and architectural elements
• Delivers reliability and ease of operation within a high-vibration, mobile environment
• Allows staff to manage lighting via intuitive scene selections without technical complexity

Technical Solutions

To meet these objectives, Intelligent Environments provided a fully integrated lighting control solution using the zencontrol platform — tailored specifically for mobile rail applications.

System Highlights:

• Application Controller: At the heart of the system is a powerful application controller that centrally manages all lighting functions throughout the carriage.

• Smart Switches: Strategically located 6-button zencontrol smart switches allow onboard staff to toggle between pre-set scenes, adjusting the lighting mood to suit different parts of the journey — daylight cruising, dusk dining, or nighttime relaxation.

• DMX Integration: Feature ceiling lighting and intricately carved timber details are brought to life through DMX-controlled fixtures, enhancing the visual storytelling of the carriage design. The result is a space that feels both dynamic and deeply connected to Aotearoa’s natural beauty.

Lighting as an Experience

More than just functional, the lighting control system plays an essential role in shaping the passenger experience.

• Ambience Control: From soft, warm tones during early morning departures to cooler daylight scenes as the train passes through New Zealand’s striking landscapes, lighting scenes adapt to create a seamless, immersive journey.

• Architectural Integration: Lighting complements the carriage’s design narrative, showcasing carved timber and ceiling details inspired by Māori motifs and native elements.

• Simplicity for Staff: Operational ease was a critical requirement. The smart switches allow train staff to effortlessly control lighting, reducing the need for technical support or complex training.

Technical Resilience for Mobile Environments

Unlike static commercial buildings, a train carriage introduces unique challenges — including vibration, limited access for maintenance, and the need for compact, durable components. Intelligent Environments’ solution accounted for:

• High-reliability components suited to continuous operation

• A centralised yet modular architecture for easy system updates or diagnostics

• Integration with other on-board systems, ensuring lighting complements wider carriage operations

Project Outcome

The Manuhiri carriage was officially launched in December 2024, making its debut journey from Wellington Station as part of the Scenic Plus service. Since then, it has been praised for elevating North Island rail travel — offering a sensory-rich, comfort-driven experience backed by intelligent technology.

This project further cements Intelligent Environments’ role as a trusted lighting control specialist in transportation settings, where smart integration and visual storytelling converge.

For more information about this case study or to discuss how we can support your lighting control project, get in touch with us.