Whether you want to ferry from North Island to South, take a train through the mountains, or experience the rugged landscape of the Central Plateau - let train journeys in New Zealand be your connection.
New Zealand train holidays are fantastic for witnessing the best of this beautiful destination from the comfort of a first-class carriage! From snow-capped mountains and rugged coastlines to ancient forests and clean green farmland – come and experience some of the world’s most unique and beautiful landscapes unseen by road.
New Zealand rail journeys are one of the simplest ways to experience the country’s awe-inspiring scenery. Speak to one of our travel experts and let us help you build a bespoke itinerary from the below rail holidays and connect with New Zealand’s rich culture and alluring vistas.
New Zealand Rail Trips via Coastal Pacific
The Coastal Pacific train runs once daily from Christchurch to Picton throughout the summer season. This journey is one of New Zealand’s most beautiful rail journeys, taking in sparkling seascapes and the vast Kaikoura mountains. You’ll traverse the Kaikōura Coastline, renowned for its marine life and fabulous whale watching experiences, through the serene Canterbury Plains to the “Garden City” of Christchurch.
In less than 5 hours – the Coastal Pacific will take you on a journey from Christchurch Railway Station to the world-class destination of Picton. Once you reach Picton, you can continue your journey by boarding the Interislander ferry to Wellington. From there, take the Northern Explorer train to Auckland to carry on your train journey through the North Island.
Begin your New Zealand Rail Holiday
New Zealand Rail Tours via TranzAlpine
The TranzAlpine train takes in the very best of the South Island; from beautiful mountains and the idyllic Canterbury Plains. The journey takes you from Christchurch to Greymouth, letting you take in the South Island’s striking natural landscapes along the way.
Take a journey on one of the world’s greatest train rides; covering 223 kilometres (139 miles) of breath-taking scenery across the Canterbury Plains, famous Waimakariri River and full view of the Southern Alps. This one-way journey takes just under 5 hours to complete and immerses you in the epic landscapes New Zealand rail tours have to offer.
