Ride New Zealand's Iconic Railways

Departures & Pricing

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Ramada Suites by Wyndham Victoria Street West

   Located in the central business district, the hotel is perfectly positioned for easy travel to local attractions. Ramada Suites is within walking distance of Aotea Square, featuring outdoor space used for markets and other public gatherings. The Deluxe Studio Apartment features a kitchenette, in-room safe, television and washing machine.

2. 2

   Northern Explorer Scenic Train from Auckland to Wellington

   Explore the rural heart of New Zealand's North Island on this epic 681km journey between Auckland and Wellington on the Northern Explorer train. With unique blends of international prestige and local culture, both are excellent places to start or finish your adventure. See the scenic wonders of Middle Earth, soar over towering viaducts, across the high plains of the volcanic plateau, and beneath three mighty volcanoes. You'll stay in the heart of the central business district and enjoy free WiFi, a gym, and well-appointed guest rooms at Ramada by Wyndham Wellington for two nights. Only two kilometres from Wellington Station, this modern, non-smoking hotel is walking distance from the scenic Wellington Waterfront Walk, must-see exhibits at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, and the restaurants, cafés, bars, and shops of lively Cuba Street.

3. 3

   Wellington - Day at leisure

4. 4

   Interislander One Way Ferry Journey from Wellington to Picton

   The Cook Strait ferry crossing is 96 kilometres (52 nautical miles) and takes around three and a half hours. It is one of the most scenic ferry journeys in the world. Two-thirds of the journey is a scenic spectacle, with the ferry looping around Wellington Harbour and drifting through the fjord-like channels and inlets of the Marlborough Sounds. The remaining third of the journey is spent navigating Te Moana o Raukawakawa / Cook Strait - a seafaring adventure through a dramatic and rugged channel where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. Accommodation tonight is at The Gables B&B Picton, a charming historic residence close to all Picton's attractions and amenities A leisurely amble takes you to the splendid foreshore area, or a selection of restaurants, pubs, shops, and supermarkets. Close to hand are the boating marina, water taxis, trains, the ferry terminal, and the magnificent walks overlooking the sounds and the harbour are literally on your doorstep. At The Gables B&B, the rates include a glass of Marlborough sauvignon blanc and a continental breakfast.

5. 5

   Coastal Pacific One Way Journey from Picton to Christchurch

   Join us on one of the most picturesque journeys on New Zealand's railways. Throughout this scenic experience, you will meander along the Pacific coast between Picton and Christchurch. The Coastal Pacific train takes you along rugged coastlines, across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty. Explore the stunning Kaikōura Coastline, famous for its marine life and whale watching. Voyage through the vineyards of Blenheim, dripping with New Zealand's premium crop. Canter amidst the idyllic Canterbury countryside to the Garden City of Christchurch. Stay at Fable Christchurch for two nights - centrally located just one block from Cathedral Square. You will appreciate the hotel's ideal location that puts the best of Christchurch within easy reach. Guest rooms and suites are designed for comfort, featuring air-conditioning, high speed internet access, Sky TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and mini bar. Guest amenities include a restaurant and bar, gym, sauna, and dry cleaning service (charges apply).

6. 6

   TranzAlpine Return Day Trip to Greymouth

   Weaving coast-to-coast through the stunning Southern Alps, the TranzAlpine journey is one of a kind. Ranked amongst the best train journeys in the world, the TranzAlpine route is truly stunning. Cutting through the mountainous spine of New Zealand's South Island, the railway weaves through cliff-lined river gorges, over high mountain plains, over braided rivers and around pristine mountain lakes. The TranzAlpine journey follows two railways on its journey from east to west. Starting in Christchurch, the journey rumbles across the expansive Canterbury Plains on the South Island Main Trunk line (SIMT). Then at Rolleston, the TranzAlpine train turns north onto the Midland Line. Following an ancient Māori trail through the mountains that was later plotted by engineer Arthur Dobson, it is the Midland Line's passage through the Southern Alps that astounds the senses. On your journey today, you will understand why this route was so hard to build - and why it remains a treacherous railway to maintain. And that is what makes it so spectacular. 

7. 7

   Depart Christchurch

   The itinerary is subject to change without notice due to unforeseen circumstances, weather conditions, or other factors. We will make every effort to keep you informed of any changes.

Accommodation

Book this rail journey

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

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