train travel nz south island

South Island Rail & Coach Tour

“adventure for the sake of a dream, for the pleasure of searching”, - sir edmund hillary, 13-day south island rail & coach tour, includes "the big 5" rail journeys of the south island.

TranzAlpine

Kingston Flyer (Steam)

Taieri Gorge

Coastal Pacific

Marlborough Flyer (Steam)

Inspired by one of the greatest and most iconic adventurers of our time, The Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer, invites you on an epic journey by rail and luxury coach throughout the majestic South Island of New Zealand.

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Top of the South Island Train Tour

Duration: 7 Days

Price: from NZ$1,469

Departure From: Christchurch

Departure Date: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday*

Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible

Tour Operator: LOCO Journeys

Meal Plan: N/A

Physical Grading: 2

It’s time to enjoy the Top of the South Island train tour on this succinct 7 day independent journey that includes the breath-taking TranzAlpine and the wonderful Coastal Explorer scenic rail journeys.

The Top of the South Island train tour will take you from the Sea to the Mountains and back to the Sea, you begin your circle trip in Christchurch with the iconic TranzAlpine train to Greymouth. Discover the West Coasts untamed natural wilderness of rivers, rainforests, and geological treasures, along with its rich mining history as you drive up the West Coast.

A stop at Punakaiki enables you to marvel at the Pancake Rocks and watch as water shoots skyward from the blowholes at high tide. Maybe one of the West Coast’s stunning sunsets will also be on the cards!

Further along its a chance to get amongst the beautiful rainforest of Paparoa National Park onboard the Charleston Nile River Rainforest Train . A short interpretative train ride in open carriages through tranquil rain forest in to the magnificent Nile River Canyon. You pass through the film sites for the “The Lost World” and enjoy a short walk along the towering limestone cliffs to the Nile River Suspension Bridge.

Westport, is the oldest European town on the West Coast. Established during the gold mining era it is steeped in history from the bygone days through to its present day coal mining industry. Be sure to visit the museum which provides a glimpse of what it’s like to work underground. 

Westport is a great base to seek out the hidden gems of the Buller District, such as Cape Foulwind, home to a seal colony, a lighthouse and a coastal walkway giving panoramic views of mountains and coastline.

The road to Nelson on your Top of the South island rail tour is scenic and interesting, beginning with the steep, bushclad, forbidding Buller Gorge. Its worth a stop at the Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure and Heritage Park – here is New Zealand’s longest swing bridge, standing a clear 17 metres above the Buller River and spans 110m.

In Nelson, your stay includes 2 nights so you can explore the city and its thriving arts and crafts scene. If you would like to add a scenic helicopter flight in the Abel Tasman to Awaroa Lodge where you can indulge in a delicious gourmet lunch, please contact Loco.

Lastly, your final leg of your journey is on the Coastal Pacific Scenic Train from Picton to Christchurch. Time to sit back and relax, enjoy a glass of wine or head into the open-air carriage as you head down the coast. You may even spot some dolphins frolicking in the bays.

Please  contact LOCO  for any pre/post travel arrangements we can help you with beyond your Top of the South Island train tour.

LOCO Journeys can tailor-make this tour to a journey that delivers to your desired destinations, your time, budget and the train timetable. Fully Flexible Tour

Top of the South Island Train Tour Highli ghts

• The magnificent ride through the Alps on the TranzAlpine Scenic Train
• Marvel at the limestone formations of the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
• A ride on the Nile River Rainforest Train
• The Scenic drive through the Buller Gorge
• Relax and explore in sunny Nelson
• The delightful ride along the seaside on the Coastal Explorer Scenic Train

TranzAlpine Booking Classes

The TranzAlpine has recently brought in two distinct service levels to their train journey. Both classes are worthy of what you pay, and both a thoroughly enjoyable way to make the most of your TranzAlpine train experience.

Scenic Class Experience

Glide through the heart of New Zealand’s beautiful scenery in Scenic Class carriages, with epic landscape views filling your window while you relax in your seat.

In Scenic Class you’ll experience spacious reclined seats with generous amounts of legroom and comfort, panoramic windows, glass shelves and skylights. And to heighten your comfort, state-of-the-art airbag suspension has been used to guarantee a smooth ride across our rugged New Zealand terrain.

While onboard, you might like a stroll to the Scenic Cafe carriage where you’ll find a great selection of hot and cold snacks, drinks and ice creams. Indulge in a freshly brewed specialty tea or barista coffee married with a sumptuous cake? Or perhaps toast your special journey with a bottle of bubbles?

The Scenic Cafe opens for coffee and breakfast before the train departs and continues serving throughout the day. You can take a seat in the Scenic Cafe carriage and feast upon the views whilst eating. But you are also welcome to return to your seat to dine and drink if you would prefer. The day is yours to do as you choose! 

During the hot summer months, the Open-air Viewing Carriage is a great place to get some fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors while on the move. You can whittle away the hours chatting and gazing out upon spectacular scenery and wildlife. It is also that perfect place for capturing those magical views on camera.

Learn the stories of our land while you travel by plugging into the Scenic Class Audio Commentary at your seat. The commentary provides a seamless stream of stories, narratives and facts about the places outside your window and is available on all three Scenic Class services, including the  Northern Explorer , Coastal Pacific  and  TranzAlpine .

Scenic Plus Class Experience

Inside the refined Scenic Plus Class carriages, it’s more than just a journey. You’ll be treated to fresh food, captivating commentary, great hosting and spectacular views, all delivered to your seat while you ease back and enjoy the journey. There really is no better way to discover New Zealand. 

At the heart of the Scenic Plus experience is the refined Scenic Plus Class carriage, with huge panoramic windows, glass shelves and skylights, bathing you in those gorgeous coastal and mountain landscapes. 

With freshly prepared food inspired by the fields that glide past your window and regional wines to match, you’ll be immersed in the flavours of our land. As you admire the views our Scenic Plus hosts will recount the stories and histories of the passing landscapes and landmarks. 

When you step off the train, you will have experienced some of the best New Zealand has to offer. 

Top of the South Island train tour accommodation

Your accommodation for the Top of the South self-drive tour has been based at high quality, comfortable motels and hotels.

For a detailed itinerary, the TranzAlpine and Coastal Pacific timetable, departure days, and fare conditions, please see below.

Departure Dates & Timetable

• This tour has been based on departures on the TranzAlpine to meet with the Coastal Pacific operating days.
• TranzAlpine operating days are Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday until 30 April 2023
• There is one departure from Christchurch on operating days.
• The TranzAlpine departs Christchurch at 08.15 arriving into Greymouth at 13.05.
• There is one departure from Picton on operating days.
• The Coastal Pacific departs Picton at 13.40 arriving into Christchurch at 19.20.
• You must be at the station at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
• Extra nights can be added to accommodate departures any day of the week.

Tour Inclusions

• 1 night pre and post accommodation at the Tower Junction Motor Lodge Christchurch in a King Studio
• Oneway train journey on the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth
• Car Hire based on Compact SUV Mitsubishi ASX or similar from Greymouth Railway Station to Picton Depot – please contact LOCO for nil excess option.
• 1 nights accommodation at the Punakaiki Resort in a Standard Seaview Room
• The Nile River Rainforest Train Tour (min 2 people)
• 1 nights accommodation at the Bella Vista Motel Westport in a Superior Studio
• 2 nights accommodation at the Rutherford Hotel Nelson in a Premium Double Room
• Oneway train journey on the Coastal Pacific from Picton to Christchurch

Pricing Notes

• Advertised from price based on per person twin share, subject to availability
• Accommodation is based on room only
• Single supplements available on request
• Trips depart 9am & 11.30am Summer (October to April) and 10:00 am Winter (May to September)
• Upgrade to the Train and Glowworm Tour for NZD$108 per person (min 2 people).
• Add a Nelson and Abel Tasman Heli Tour including lunch at Awaroa Lodge for NZD$1126 (1-2pax).  Duration 2-3 hours.
• Pre/post flights or other travel arrangements are available on request
• Accommodation may be changed at LOCO Journeys discretion depending on availability
• Price is subject to change unless paid in full

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 | christchurch, day 2 | christchurch - tranzalpine train - greymouth - punakaiki, day 3 | punakaiki - charleston rainforest train - westport, day 4 | westport - nelson, day 5 | nelson, day 6 | nelson - picton - coatal pacific train - christchurch, day 7 | christchurch.

For more information about this tour, price queries and updates on specials, please Enquire Now .

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Train, Fiord and Glacier

Spoil yourself with a New Zealand tour to a beautiful fiord, stunning glacier and finish with one of the best scenic rail routes of New Zealand's South Island. This vacation really is fantastic if you want to see some unique highlights in a short time frame. Contact us if you wish to alter this plan - we can design your holiday specifically for your needs!

Independent tour (bus & coach)

This suggested tour costs from NZD$3,445 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Christchurch, finishes in Christchurch

6 days/5 nights

Hotel 3 star

  Customisable? YES

  Viewed 435 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

At a glance - Train, Fiord and Glacier

Day 1 : Christchurch to Dunedin by Intercity coach Accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel

Day 2 : Dunedin to Queenstown by Intercity coach Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

Day 3 : A full day tour into Milford Sound including a cruise Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

Day 4 : A full day to explore Queenstown at leisure. Entrance to the Skyline Gondola is included Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

Day 5 : Travel through Lake Wanaka, Hawea and the Wild West Coast to Glacier Country Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

Day 6 : Today cross the Southern Alps on the world famous Tranz Alpine Scenic Train

Leaving Christchurch early, you will cross the vast Canterbury Plains as you head South, crossing many braided rivers that start their life as glacial melt water high in the Southern Alps. New Zealand's longest bridge at Rakaia crosses such an example. Pass through the towns of Timaru followed by Oamaru, most famous for its buildings constructed with the unique locally quarried white stone. Continue along the coast and into the city of Dunedin.

On arrival into Dunedin you will be met from your coach and transferred to your accommodation.

Your accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel

You will be collected from your accommodation and transferred to the coach stop in time for your departure.

Your coach trip today takes you through the Otago Goldfields of yesteryear. The townships of Lawrence, Roxburgh and Alexandra were once booming gold rush towns, with populations many times more than their current small town image would imply. Alexandra and Roxburgh in more recent times have become well known for the delicious stone fruit that is grown here. The road follows the South Island's longest river, the Clutha River, and at Clyde you will see one of the largest hydro power stations harnessing its energy. The Kawarau River carves a steep and rugged gorge through to Gibbston where some of the finest Pinot Noirs can be sampled. It's also the home of the world's first commercial bungy jumping operation at the historic Kawarau Suspension Bridge and a great viewing platform. Continuing through Lake Hayes you soon arrive into the bustling alpine adventure town of Queenstown.

Your accommodation: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

Return luxury coach transport from Queenstown to Milford Sound, with a 1 hour 40 minute Cruise along the full length of the fiord. On boarding a Real Journeys luxury glass-roofed coach in Queenstown or Te Anau, you will enjoy a relaxing trip along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. The coach driver provides an informative commentary. After a morning tea break in Te Anau, where you have the option of purchasing refreshments, the coach continues along the spectacular Milford Road. There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way. On reaching Milford Sound, you board the modern, spacious vessel for a leisurely cruise in the fiord. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and the wildlife. During the cruise your friendly crew provide commentaries in several languages and point out the sights such as Mitre Peak and the Pembroke Glacier.

Although celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast-paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic and scenic wonders. Head down the Gibbston Valley wine trail to sample some of the region’s best Pinot or catch a ride on the 100 year old Steamship - the TSS Earnslaw -  to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour. Browse the waterfront cafes and have lunch at Michelin star chef Josh Emett's ‘Rata.’ Check out nearby historic Arrowtown and enhance your experience with a four wheel drive trip to Macetown. Take a leisurely lakeside stroll or ride the gondola for breathtaking views. Drive through Lord Of The Rings country - or for the really fanatic, jump aboard one of many dedicated LOTR tours. If you do really want the adrenaline rush Queenstown is known for, take your pick from the Shotover Jet , Bungy , Canyon Swing , Zipline , Luge or Heli-ski . Finally, if you're lucky enough to visit in winter (July-September) there are four ski resorts close by. You can head up to Coronet Peak and the Remarkables close to Queenstown, or head to Wanaka for Cardrona and Treble Cone .

Hop aboard the Skyline Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! From which you can take in the awe-inspiring views of this spectacular landscape. Sit back and relax as you enjoy panoramic views of The Remarkables, Walter Peak, Cecil Peak, Coronet Peak and the magnificent Lake Wakatipu.

Leaving Queenstown, travel past picturesque scenery of massive mountain peaks and crystal-clear blue lakes. Travel across the Haast Pass to the other side of the Southern Alps, the landscape changes dramatically. Welcome to the wild and wonderful West Coast, a remote and unspoiled region. Wind your way past native rainforest, rocky coastlines and powerful waterfalls. Your journey concludes in the village of Fox Glacier, your base for exploration of the area.

Your accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

Today you’ll head north through the historic gold mining region of Hokitika . Known for its Greenstone (Pounamu) this seaside town has a rich history dating back to the 1860’s. Continue on to Greymouth , the largest town on the West Coast and the starting point for the next leg of your journey - the TranzAlpine Scenic Train.

Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch. You'll travel across the South Island from the west to the east coast through Arthur's Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.

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6 day queenstown, milford sound and glacier highlights, 6 day dunedin, queenstown, milford sound and glaciers, 6 day southern highlights.

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Train travel in New Zealand is a scenic experience

Each of the three scenic passenger rail journeys in New Zealand are unique, with views from the Northern Explorer train showing you the diverse countryside of the North Island - towering viaducts, spectacular gorges, hidden valleys, to the rugged coastline of the South Island, seen from the Coastal Pacific train to the mountain alpine scenery from the TranzAlpine train. 

Travel in air-conditioned, centrally heated, carpeted carriages that have an advanced air bag suspension system for quieter and smoother travel, un-tinted, non-reflective, panoramic side and roof windows to capture the dramatic coastal and mountain views, GPS triggered journey commentary in two languages (English and Mandarin) at your seat via headphones, plus information displays, overhead HD video and onboard washroom facilities.

Enjoy the Scenic Class experience onboard all services with a range of fresh food and beverages available from the café car. Seating is comfortable '2 Seat-Aisle-2 Seat' reclining seats with head rests or 'Table Group' (4 people around a table) seating - great for families, small groups or meeting new friends.

Scenic Plus class is now available on the TranzAlpine train and will return to the Coastal Pacific train from 14 December 2023 and the Northern Explorer train from 15 May 2024. Take your seat in the exclusive carriage and enjoy an enhanced dining experience where both hot and cold dishes are freshly made in the kitchen carriage. The locally inspired, seasonal dishes are served at your seat while you sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery, The complimentary drinks menu including world famous New Zealand wines are carefully selected to match the sumptuous lunch and afternoon tea. Dedicated hosts are on hand to answer questions, add local knowledge and to ensure the best journey possible.

For mobility-impaired passengers, there are spaces for wheel chairs and a disabled public toilet. Wheelchair hoists provide access to the cafe carriage from track level. For hearing-impaired passengers - a hearing loop covers all of the cafe carriage saloon and serving area. 

All long distance passenger trains have a cafe carriage serving a range of snacks, light meals and non-alcoholic/alcoholic drinks and open air viewing carriage.

Your friendly onboard train crew are there to provide assistance to make your travel a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

With connecting scenic coach services, you can travel south from either Greymouth or Christchurch to the West Coast Glaciers, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Invercargill, Mt Cook/Aoraki, Invercargill (for ferry services to Stewart Island), Dunedin or from Auckland to Paihia in the Bay of Islands and the thermal wonderland of Rotorua.

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Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, see new zealand by train.

Whether you're an overseas visitor or a born-and-bred New Zealander, trains are the best way to travel between New Zealand's three main cities, Auckland, Wellington and (with a little help from the Interislander ferry) Christchurch.  Trains are also the way to reach the North Island's Tongariro National Park, the South Island's west coast at Greymouth, the whale-watching and dolphin-swimming centre at Kaikoura or the Marlborough vineyards at Blenheim.  See the route map opposite.

Unlike domestic flights, the trains take you at ground level past superb scenery that can't be seen by road, in civilised comfort that cramped and uncivilised long-distance buses can't match.  So ditch that short-haul flight and actually see New Zealand!

New Zealand's long-distance trains are operated by Kiwi Rail's passenger division, originally called Tranz Scenic but returned to public ownership in 2008 as KiwiRail Scenic and in 2017 rebranded yet again as Great Journeys of New Zealand .  Who knows what it will be called next year?  This page explains routes, train times, fares, the best way to buy tickets, and what there is to see on the journey.

Train times, fares, tickets

Other useful information

Interactive route map.

Click a route for info.

Useful country information

Auckland to wellington by train.

The train ride from Auckland to Wellington over the North Island Main Trunk Railway is an amazing experience and one of my favourite journeys.  So ditch that domestic flight or nightmare bus journey and ride the Northern Explorer from downtown Auckland to central Wellington, in comfort at ground level.  Stop off if you like at the Tongariro National Park.  This is an epic 681 kilometre (423 mile) journey right across the interior of the North Island, taking you in a single day past every kind of scenery there is, from coastline to volcanoes to mountains, from lush green farmland to thick New Zealand rainforest.  The historic North Island Main Trunk Railway was completed in 1908 and includes such feats of engineering at the Raurimu Spiral , Turangarere Horseshoe & Makatote Viaduct.

For times, fares, information & photos, see the Northern Explorer page .

Wellington to Picton by ferry

New Zealand's Interislander is one of the most scenic ferry crossings in the world, easily the best way between the North & South Islands - a genuine experience, not a mere flight.  There are up to 5 daily sailings across the Cook Strait between Wellington and Picton, crossing time 3½ hours.  The 08:45 sailing from Wellington and 14:15 sailing from Picton connect with the Coastal Pacific train to/from Christchurch, see the Wellington-Christchurch timetable below .  The Cook Strait has a reputation for choppy seas, but in reality only a third of the crossing is actually in the Strait itself, most of it is in very sheltered waters, and in my experience it was rock steady on the big, modern and stabilised ferry Kaitaki .

Interislander sailings from Wellington:  06:15*, 08:45, 13:00, 15:45, 20:30**.

Interislander sailings from picton:  07:30*, 11:00*, 14:15, 18:30, 20:35..

Crossing time 3½ hours.  * Not Mondays.  ** Not Saturdays.

Times vary by season, so check ferry fares & times at www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz/interislander . 

In Wellington , the Interislander terminal is a long walk north of the railway station, but a free shuttle bus clearly marked Interislander leaves from platform 9 at the railway station 50 minutes before each sailing.  The journey time is 5 minutes.  Foot passengers must check in at the terminal at least 30 minutes before sailing time.  All heavy baggage is checked in so only hand luggage is carried on board.  Passengers connecting with the train to Christchurch can check in bags in Wellington all the way through to Christchurch.

In Picton , the Interislander terminal is 200 metres from the station.  All heavy baggage is checked in so only hand luggage needs to be carried on board.

The 08:25 sailing from Wellington & 13:15 sailing from Picton connect with the Coastal Pacific train to/from Christchurch.  You can book combined Wellington-Christchurch ferry & train tickets  online at www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz , but see the advice bee below to get the cheaper tickets.  Both these sailings are normally operated by the Kaitaki , the largest ferry in New Zealand waters.

The Kaitaki may look familiar to ferry travellers from Ireland or the UK.  She started life in 1995 as the Isle of Innisfree on the Irish Ferries Holyhead-Dublin and Pembroke-Rosslare routes, and later the P&O's Pride of Cherbourg on the Portsmouth-Cherbourg route.  The Interislander ferry company was started in 1962 by New Zealand Railways, hence its close connections with the train service to Christchurch.  Another ferry company also operates several daily ferries between Wellington and Picton, www.bluebridge.co.nz , but these ferries don't connect with the train to Christchurch.

Kaitaki Plus first class lounge:   For an extra NZ$80 paid on board, you can access the Kaitaki Plus lounge with quiet seating, power sockets, free WiFi, complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and a free light hot meal.  Over-18s only.  On the down side, the views from the lounge are slightly obstructed, and you may spend much of the crossing on deck, gazing at the scenery!

A voyage on the Interislander

The ship sails out of the Interislander terminal at Wellington and heads out of the harbour in a wide arc with views of Wellington's seafront.

It passes the suburb of Seatoun on the right and exits the harbour into the Cook strait separating the North and South Islands.  Also on the right are some wicked-looking rocks, including the Barrett Reef where the Lyttelton-Wellington overnight ferry m/v Wahine came to grief in a storm in 1968.

The crossing of the Cook Strait itself only lasts an hour, and at the other side the ferry passes between narrow headlands into the Tory Channel.  Named after the "Tory", a migrant ship which passed through the channel in 1840, the Tory Channel is one of the Marlborough Sounds, a narrow channel between Arapawa Island on the right and a strip of mainland on the left.

The ship slowly follows this channel, through an 's' bend, entering the larger Queen Charlotte Sound and finally arriving at Picton, a small town and the railhead for the South island.

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Picton to Christchurch by train

The most comfortable and scenic way to travel from Wellington to Christchurch is to take the famous Interislander ferry and the connecting Coastal Pacific train.  Named TranzCoastal until 2011, the train has now regained its original name Coastal Pacific .

* Runs from late September until late April.  Runs every day in summer, February-April.  For exact dates see www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz .  The Coast Pacific used to run daily all year but was reduced to running in New Zealand's summer season only.  It was planned to restore all-year-round running in 2019, but this didn't happen.

One class of seating, cafe-bar, open-air viewing platform.

There are other Wellington-Picton Interislander ferry sailings, see www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz/interislander , only the rail-connected sailing is shown here.  It leaves Wellington at 08:45 on some dates, and northbound times vary too, so always check for your date of travel.

Children aged 2-14 travel at reduced fare.  Infants under 2 travel free.

How to buy tickets

Option 1, you can buy Wellington-Christchurch combined train+ferry tickets (or tickets between any other two stations on this route) at KiwiRail's official passenger train website www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz with print-your-own tickets.

Option 2, you can buy tickets for the train and tickets for the ferry at 12go.com , a reliable agency.  The process is easy, but you need to book the Wellington-Picton ferry and Picton-Christchurch train separately.  Tickets are usually confirmed within 24h and sent by email.

What's the train like?

The Coastal Pacific uses new AK panoramic sightseeing coaches built in KiwiRail's Dunedin workshops in New Zealand in 2011-2012.  These replace the old rebuilt 1930s & 1940s carriages used until 2012. Photos courtesy of James Chuang

Comfortable seats , most facing direction of travel, some in bays of 4 around a table, all lining up with huge panoramic windows (note the roof skylights too!), with loads of legroom even if you're over six feet tall.  Seats are not always allocated at booking, but by the train manager before departure.  However, if you book by phone (or book online and then call KiwiRail's freephone number when you get to NZ and quote your booking reference) you can make a seating request.  For example, four friends or family travelling together could request one of the few bays of 4 seats facing each other around a table, keen photographers could request a seat close to the viewing platform.  Requests can't be guaranteed, of course, but it doesn't hurt to ask!  All your heavy baggage is checked in to the baggage van, only hand luggage may be taken into the seating coaches.  All seats in the new 'AK' cars have power sockets for mobiles, laptops or cameras (New Zealand voltage and plug, of course).  Larger photo .

New Premium class:   From October 2020, a new Premium class carriage was added to the Coastal Pacific, with extra-legroom extra-width reclining seats arranged 2+1 across the car width (the usual cars have seats 2+2 across the car) and included food & wine, served at your seat.

Cafe-bar:   In the centre of the train is a counter selling tea, coffee, wine, beer, spirits, snacks & light microwaveable meals at reasonable prices.  I can recommend a cream tea in the afternoon, and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc!  You can buy at the counter and take your food & drink back to your seat, but staff also come through the train taking orders for delivery to your seat.  Bring cash, as cards are sometimes not accepted if the credit card machine is out of cellphone range.  Larger photo .

Open-air viewing platform:   At the Wellington end of the train (rear going north, behind the locomotive going south) is a large open-air viewing platform, ideal for seeing and photographing the scenery, with no glass in between you and it.  Children must be accompanied.  The viewing cars now have additional rails to prevent you leaning out.

What's the journey like?

Travel tips, about the journey, christchurch to greymouth by train.

The TranzAlpine is the most scenic train journey in New Zealand, and one of the most scenic train trips in the world.  Not surprisingly, it's become the most successful of all the Kiwi Rail Great Journeys passenger train services, very popular with tour groups because of the spectacular crossing of the Southern Alps between Christchurch and the South Island's west coast at Greymouth.  It's a fantastic trip, though in my opinion neither as epic or as historically-significant as the Auckland-Wellington Northern Explore r .

See the TranzAlpine page for times, fares & details .

Christchurch to Dunedin & Invercargill

Once important cities, Dunedin and Invercargill have declined in importance and apparently no longer justify a proper train service to the rest of New Zealand.  The last Christchurch-Dunedin-Invercargill train service, the daily "Southerner" over the South island's Main South Line, was withdrawn in 2004.  Nowadays, anyone wishing to reach these towns must endure a long bus journey from Christchurch.  Here are the main bus services, although an additional bus may run on Fridays and Sundays.  Please check times before travelling at the bus operator websites,   www.intercity.co.nz .

Fares & how to buy tickets

 Christchurch-Dunedin costs NZ$33-$46.  Christchurch-Invercargill costs NZ$35-$67.  You can check fares and book bus tickets online at www.intercity.co.nz .

Christchurch to Queenstown & Milford Sound

There were never any train services to Queenstown, although historically you might have taken a slow train from Invercargill to Kingston (the preserved Kingston Flyer train uses part of this route), then a steamer across Lake Wakatipu to Queenstown, a route on which Queenstown's famous 100-year old working steamship Earnslaw would have worked.  Today, there are bus services operated by national operator Intercity.  You need to change buses and overnight in Queenstown if you are travelling to/from Milford Sound.

 You can check times, fares and book bus tickets online at www.intercity.co.nz .

Dunedin - Queenstown by train

The taieri gorge railway.

The most rewarding way to travel between Dunedin and Queenstown was via the Taieri Gorge Railway's Track & Trail train/bus link, but sadly they no longer offer this train-bus combo (perhaps you could arrange a private transfer between Pukerangi & Queenstown using a Queenstown taxi service?).  However, you can still ride the Taieri Gorge Railway ( www.dunedinrailways.co.nz ), a preserved railway running daily year-round tourist trains through spectacular scenery over part of the old Dunedin-Cromwell branch railway.  Leaving from the beautiful and much-photographed 1906 railway station in Dunedin's town centre, it travels a few kilometres south over the South Island Main Trunk Line (still well-used for freight but sadly with no passenger service) before branching off inland through the scenic gorge that gives the line its name.  The train terminates at Pukerangi, 58 km from Dunedin, extended to Middlemarch on summer Fridays & Sundays, 76 km from Dunedin.  Highly recommended!  The Taieri Gorge Railway now also operates a tourist train called the Seasider along the main line between Dunedin and Palmerston.

U pdate:  The Taieri Gorge Railway ceased operating to Pukerangi, although now runs some seasonal trains on shorter runs, see www.dunedinrailways.co.nz

* = The railway no longer offers an integrated bus connection.

To check times, fares & buy tickets, contact the Taieri Gorge Railway on www.dunedinrailways.co.nz or call (03) 477 4449.

G uidebooks

Click to buy online at Amazon.co.uk

Lonely Planet New Zealand     Rough Guide to New Zealand

Hotels in New Zealand

In Auckland , the Airedale Hotel or Mercure Auckland Hotel are both sound central choices, the latter right near the Britomart station and Devonport ferry terminal, though not the cheapest options. 

In Wellington , the Shepherds Arms Hotel is a cosy gastro pub just 15 minutes walk from Parliament and the city centre with friendly staff, great food and good beer.  A top choice!

Backpacker hostels

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in many places in New Zealand at rock-bottom prices.

Flights to New Zealand

Overland travel by train & bus around New Zealand is an essential part of the experience, so once there, don't cheat and fly, stay on the ground!  But a long-haul flight might be unavoidable to reach New Zealand in the first place.

1)  Check flight prices at Opodo, www.opodo.com

2)  use skyscanner to compare flight prices & routes worldwide across 600 airlines....

3)  Lounge passes

Make the airport experience a little more bearable with a VIP lounge pass, it's not as expensive as you think!  See www.loungepass.com

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

Never travel overseas without travel insurance from a reliable insurer, with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover.  It should also cover cancellation and loss of cash and belongings, up to a sensible limit.  An annual multi-trip policy is usually cheaper than several single-trip policies even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Here are some suggested insurers.  Seat61 gets a small commission if you buy through these links.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a mobile data package for the country you're visiting and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM card so you don't need to buy a physical SIM, including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate, then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month at time of writing.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than digging a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  W hy you need a VPN

When you're travelling you often use free WiFi in public places which may not be secure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using the links on this page, you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I get a small commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, vaccination records and Interrail or Eurail passes are often held digitally on your mobile phone, so it's vital to keep it charged.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over if I can't get to a power outlet.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or from Buy from Amazon.com .

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• Train Services
• The Northern Explorer
• The Coastal Pacific
• The Tranz Alpine
• National Train Timetable
• Major Railway Stations
• Regional Train Services
• Local Trains

New Zealand long distance passenger train services

Northern Explorer: Auckland-Wellington-Auckland train service The Northern Explorer train service is a scenic rail journey through the five unique geographical regions of the North Island - travelling between Auckland, New Zealand's largest city - home of the Sky Tower, through the central heartland of the North Island to Wellington - New Zealand's harbour capital and arts and culture centre. Read more

Coastal Pacific: Christchurch–Picton–Christchurch train service The Coastal Pacific train operates between the delightful port of Picton - the gateway to the beautiful Marlborough Sounds - to Kaikoura - the home of whale watching and onto Christchurch - the South Island's largest city. Read more

Tranz Alpine: Christchurch–Greymouth–Christchurch train service The Tranz Alpine train operates between Christchurch, Arthurs Pass and Greymouth - from the east coast to the west coast of New Zealand's South Island. Read more

Enjoy the   Scenic Class   experience onboard with a range of fresh food and beverages available from the café car. Seating is comfortable '2 Seat-Aisle-2 Seat' reclining seats with head rests or 'Table Group' (4 people around a table) seating - great for families, small groups or meeting new friends.

Regional passenger train services in New Zealand Alongside the three long distance passenger train services in New Zealand there are also two regional passenger train services.

• The Capital Connection train operates between Wellington and Palmerston North Monday to Friday
•  The Wairapapa Connection train operates between Wellington and Masterton seven days a week

There are no overnight regional or long distance passenger train services in New Zealand. Travel to other major tourist destinations in New Zealand is by scenic bus and coach services from either Auckland, Hamilton, Christchurch or Greymouth.

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TranzAlpine Train

12 Day Ultimate Rail & Self Drive Explorer | New Zealand Driving Holidays

Discover 12 days combining 3 iconic train journeys with five days of driving the untamed beauty of the West Coast. From Queenstown, majestic glaciers & waterfalls to North Island vibrant Cities via the TranzAlpine, Coastal Pacific & Northern Rail.

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This once-in-a-lifetime rail holiday in will combine three of New Zealand’s great train journeys with five days of driving the untamed West Coast from Queenstown, home to giant glaciers, waterfalls & blowholes. Traverse the South Island’s spectacular landscapes aboard the world-famous TranzAlpine. Journey along the spectacular coastline on the Coastal Pacific before cruising the Cook Strait to the capital city of Wellington. Explore the rural heart of the North Island as you step aboard the historic Northern Explorer and conclude your 12 day self guided rail holiday. Chat with us today to customise this tour.

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