the great journey of new zealand

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Spectacular South Tour

Treat yourself to a signature 11-Day tour that will take you on a journey across the Cook Strait, past the mighty Southern Alps, and along the wild West Coast to Beautiful Queenstown. Sip world-class wine along the vines in Marlborough, spend a day in Kaikoura meeting the whales, dolphins, and sea life, experience the mesmerizing blue lakes of the South Island, discover the home of pounamu and ancient forests on the West Coast, and all while being captivated by the storytelling of your tour director throughout your great journey. Explore at your own pace New Zealand's city culture and history in Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown

Guided Coach & Train Tours

This suggested tour costs from NZD$8,749 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Wellington, finishes in Queenstown

11 days/10 nights

Hotel 4 star

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Tour Inclusions

At a glance - Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Spectacular South Tour

Day 1 : Welcome to Wellington Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 2 : Wellington to Picton via the Interislander Ferry Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 3 : Picton to Kaikoura on the Coastal Pacific Scenic Train Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 4 : Catch the Coastal Pacfic Scenic Train from Kaikoura to Christchurch Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 5 : Explore Christchurch Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 6 : Christchurch to Hokitika on the Tranz Alpine Train Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 7 : Explore The West Coast Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 8 : Franz Josef to Queenstown Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 9 : Experience Milford Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 10 : Explore Queenstown Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 11 : Farewell Queenstown

Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand’s windy capital! Wellington is known for its world-class dining, great coffee and eccentric shops. Your great journey will officially begin the moment you check into your hotel room. After reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Wellington has to offer.  This is the perfect opportunity to get cultured at Te Papa Museum or grab a drink at one of the many quirky bars on Cuba Street. You may even fancy a ride on the cable car! After an exciting day on the town, join your fellow travellers as well as the Tour Director at this evening’s welcome reception.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

This morning you will say poroporoaki ki te motu raki (good-bye to the North Island) as you sail to the South Island, crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry. As the shores of the North Island slowly disappear, settle down in the comfy seats in the Premium Lounge. Treat yourself to a mimosa and enjoy a hearty seafaring breakfast, but save some room for morning tea! On your journey across the Cook Strait you may spot pods of dolphins playing in the wake or, if you are very lucky, a whale. Don’t spend all your time inside – as you enter the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound enjoy the views as you cruise past the remnants of whaling stations, remote working sheep farms, pristine native bush and mussel farms. Admire the beauty of this coastal paradise as you arrive into the gateway of the South Island, Picton. Step off the Interislander Ferry and join your next world-class experience aboard a Marlborough Wine Tour.

The morning is yours to explore Picton. Meander through the impressive Edwin Fox- the world’s oldest surviving merchant sailing ships, the local craft stores, and coastal walks. Enjoy the waterfront cafés before boarding the Coastal Pacific train for another highlight rail journey through the Marlborough Wine Region. Today you will be travelling into Kaikōura. Relax as the train glides across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks! Once in Kaikōura, the evening will be yours to enjoy some iconic kai moana (seafood) at one of the quaint restaurants before enjoying your luxurious ocean-front hotel.

Today will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will have the opportunity to go whale watching! Enjoy today’s optional thrill of an up-close encounter with the world's largest-toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale. Want to get an aerial experience of the wildlife? Why not request a plane or helicopter ride to capture the true grandeur of it all? Whether you have decided to go llama trekking or swimming with the dolphins and seals, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the beach to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips. Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops. In the late afternoon, your journey will continue, once again, on the Coastal Pacific Train en route to Christchurch, or “The Garden City”. The spectacular scenery doesn’t cease to amaze as you journey south through the rolling hills and flat plains. Enjoy the relaxing journey with a glass of wine in hand from the scenic café.

Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is still rebuilding itself into a multicultural haven. So, without further delay, jump on the historic tram to learn the history, tales and culture of Ōtautahi Christchurch. Enjoy your free time as you explore the Arts Centre, Quake City Museum, Antarctic Centre, and botanical gardens. There is also a multitude of delicious cafes tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love. If you are in the mood for something different, set off for Akaroa, an ‘incroyable’ French coastal settlement just outside the city.  Dinner awaits as you join your fellow travellers once again to tell them about the exciting places you have discovered.

The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine journey through the Southern Alps to the West Coast! On this fantastic escape, you will see epic vistas, soar on the edges of the ice-fed Waimakariri River, traverse the Southern Alps, and experience miles of native beech forest. The natural scenery isn’t the only marvel though. The TranzAlpine will also pass through the Otira Tunnel, a true engineering marvel of almost 100 years! Once you arrive on the West Coast, you will travel even further off the beaten track by coach to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Here you will walk amongst limestone formations before finishing your day in the coastal town of Hokitika.

This morning you start your West Coast adventure by visiting one of the South Island’s most popular activities– The Treetop Aerial Walkway. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees of course. After your sky-high experience, continue south into Glacier Country. Franz Josef Glacier is quite special in that it survives in coastal rainforest temperatures. With a short walk to a viewpoint, you'll get a fantastic view of the vast valley, as well as a sneak peek of Franz Josef Glacier itself. If you would prefer to get up close, we recommend booking an optional helicopter flight. This will ensure you are getting the best possible view of this natural wonder. After indulging in the local activities and retail therapy in Franz Josef’s souvenir shops, join your group for an impeccable highlight meal at Te Waonui Forest Retreat.

Today you will be exploring the mountainous Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey to Queenstown will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. Marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and stunning glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems. Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore a local fruit hotspot before exploring the cobblestone streets of the historic goldmining settlement of Arrowtown. After an exciting plunge into the history of this gold rush village, you will arrive in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown!

Make sure you charge your camera before you set off on today’s adventure. Today you’re heading to Milford Sounds/ Piopiotahi to be engulfed in towering peaks and to waltz through plunging valleys. After travelling through native rainforests, meadows, and knobs (yes knobs!), you will join your cruise in Milford Sounds. Jump aboard and meander down the sound where you will experience the rumble of Bowen and Stirling Falls as they plummet from glacial hanging valleys sharply into the sea. Marvel at the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak, rising from the deep waters of the fiord. Or, if you’d like to soar like the Piopio (ancient bird), why not elevate your day by flying into the Sounds by plane or helicopter? After this adventure, you will be heading back to Queenstown for the evening. Sip cocktails and indulge in Queenstown’s exciting nightlife along the sparkling Lake Wakatipu.

Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active or relaxed as you’d like. Whether it’s sipping wine in Gibbston Valley or bungy jumping with AJ Hackett, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses. Enjoy a ‘final hurrah’ this evening as we board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise, dinner, and show. Reflect on your great adventure with your fellow travellers as you cruise to your dining experience at Walter peak overlooking the beautiful Table Bay. Sit back and watch a true Kiwi experience as you learn about sheep shearing and dog herding in this beautiful setting. This evening will truly encapsulate your great journey as a truly New Zealand highlight.

Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers. You will be transferred to Queenstown Airport for your departing flight.

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Great Journeys New Zealand - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• TranzAlpine Train Journey: Christchurch to Greymouth (From $131.86)
• Coastal Pacific Train Journey from Christchurch to Picton (From $117.21)
• Northern Explorer Train Journey from Auckland to Wellington (From $125.69)
• TranzAlpine Train Journey from Greymouth to Christchurch (From $131.86)
• Northern Explorer Train Journey from Wellington to Auckland (From $125.69)
• (3.61 mi) Designer Cottage
• (4.96 mi) Hotel Montreal
• (5.19 mi) The Mayfair
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• (4.91 mi) Focus Motel & Executive Suites
• (0.11 mi) Spice Hub
• (0.35 mi) Valley Inn Tavern
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Train travel

TranzAlpine Journey | Christchurch - Greymouth - Christchurch, New Zealand

By Great Journeys of NZ

Tranz Alpine journey, Christchurch - Canterbury

TranzAlpine Cass bank from Long Hill, Christchurch - Canterbury

By KiwiRail

Couple aboard the Coastal Pacific, New Zealand

Get a front row seat for spectacular scenery when you travel by train in New Zealand.

Take a one way train trip or sit back and relax with a return journey. It’s the simplest way to experience New Zealand’s rich diversity and breathtaking beauty.

Rail travel takes you deeper into New Zealand’s landscapes and shows you all sorts of scenic wonders that often aren’t visible from the road.    

There are three main  scenic rail journeys  in New Zealand, traversing the North and South Islands.   

Some rail services also connect the regions, and there are suburban trains within Wellington and Auckland.   

The great train journeys of New Zealand

Popular scenic train trips in new zealand.

The Great Journeys are the three scenic rail trips across New Zealand:  

• The Northern Explorer – a day-long trip between Auckland and Wellington  
• The Coastal Pacific – travels the east coast of the South Island between Picton and Christchurch  
• The TranzAlpine – an internationally-renowned train trip that crosses the Southern Alps on its journey between Christchurch and Greymouth.   

Travel in luxury on all three train journeys with spacious carriages that offer comfortable seating and large panoramic windows for expansive scenic views.   

There is also an Open-Air Viewing Carriage where you can step outside to get closer to nature.   

A Scenic Café car serves meals, drinks and snacks to savour with the scenery.  

Book overnight stops in advance and spend time exploring the towns and settlements along the way.    

Northern Explorer  

The Northern Explorer is a 12-hour train trip between New Zealand’s biggest city, Auckland, and its capital, Wellington, in the North Island.   

The 648km trip takes you through the volcanic heart of the North Island into the dual UNESCO World Heritage site of Tongariro National Park, which is home to three volcanic peaks: Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. In winter, this area transforms into a snowy wonderland, while in summer months it is a rocky, otherworldly landscape.   

You’ll experience the famous Raurimu Spiral, a single-track railway spiral described as “an engineering masterpiece” and towering viaducts. You’ll see cliffs clad in lush native bush, and travel through rolling rural farmland.  

Coastal Pacific   

This picturesque six-hour journey travels the east coast of the South Island between Picton in the north and Christchurch in the south.   

It offers incredible views of the Kaikōura Ranges on one side and the swells of the Pacific Ocean on the other.   

You’ll travel through New Zealand’s biggest and most famous wine region of Marlborough, pass the salt fields of Lake Grassmere (where the waters turn pink in the summer heat) and on to the coastal settlement of Kaikōura – famous for its seafood and whale watching.   

Look out for the sperm whales that visit Kaikōura year-round, or spot orca over summer and humpback whales in our winter months of June and July. Keep a watch for seals and penguins along the rocky coastline too.   

Your journey also takes you across the patchwork of the Canterbury Plains, criss-crossed by vast braided rivers. In total, the Coastal Pacific carries you through 22 tunnels and across 175 bridges.    

TranzAlpine  

The TranzAlpine is regarded as one of the world’s greatest train trips, as it travels coast to coast across the South Island’s stunning Southern Alps.   

The five-hour journey runs between the city of Christchurch in the east, to the river town of Greymouth on the rugged West Coast.   

Highlights include an ascent into the Southern Alps, travelling through stunning Arthur’s Pass National Park and the Otira tunnel.  

You’ll traverse breath-taking bridges and viaducts, and see snow-capped mountains, lakes, braided rivers, and the diverse forest landscapes and steep gorges of Arthur’s Pass.  

The 223.8-kilometre journey includes 19 tunnels and four viaducts.    

Train travel packages  in New Zealand

See a new side of New Zealand with scenic rail short breaks and packages (opens in new window) . These train trips depart from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch and range from two to five days.   

Explore cities or discover the beautiful scenery and natural wonders of the regions. The packages include t rain travel, accommodation, meals and selected local tours and attractions.   

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Discover the great train journeys of New Zealand with Coastal Pacific

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If you are looking for an authentic Coastal Pacific train adventure, look no further than Great Journeys New Zealand .

Embark on a remarkable adventure through the heart of New Zealand’s natural beauty as you step aboard the Coastal Pacific train. This iconic railway journey is a feast for the senses, taking you on an unforgettable ride along the picturesque Pacific coast between Picton and Christchurch.

Prepare to be enchanted as you traverse rugged coastlines, revealing stunning vistas of untouched beaches framed by majestic mountains and the vast expanse of the ocean. It’s a timeless voyage through landscapes of awe-inspiring beauty that will leave you breathless.

Explore the world-renowned Kaikōura Coastline

One of the highlights of this journey is the chance to explore the world-renowned Kaikōura Coastline. Famous for its abundant marine life and thrilling whale-watching opportunities, Kaikōura will captivate your senses with its unique charm.

As you continue your voyage, you’ll meander through the vineyards of Blenheim, where you can indulge in New Zealand’s finest wines in Marlborough’s world-famous vineyards. Savour the rich flavours of this premium crop as you soak in the vineyard’s enchanting atmosphere.

Garden City of Christchurch

The Coastal Pacific train also immerses you in the idyllic Canterbury countryside, leading you to the Garden City of Christchurch. This charming city boasts historic elegance and modern vibrancy, making it the perfect destination to conclude your journey. Choose from two equally captivating directions: embark on your adventure from Christchurch to Picton or from Picton to Christchurch. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a range of enchanting destinations, including Picton, Blenheim, Kaikoura, and Christchurch.

Experience the Coastal Pacific train today

It’s a journey that promises breathtaking scenery, cultural enrichment, and unforgettable memories. Book your ticket today and immerse yourself in New Zealand’s coastal paradise’s natural wonders and cultural delights. Join us on this iconic rail adventure and let the Coastal Pacific train transport you to a world of breathtaking beauty.

The Coastal Pacific will return to running long weekends, Thursday to Sunday, from 21 September 2023. The service will run daily from 14 December 2023 to 28 April 2024.

Scenic Plus Dining Experience

From 14 December, you can elevate your experience even further with the arrival of Scenic Plus service on Coastal Pacific. With a dedicated carriage, a special menu inspired by the landscapes and delivered to your seat, drinks service and much more. An experience not to be missed.

Explore unique cultural and culinary flavours as the landscape glides by your window aboard Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus. This exclusive dining experience introduces you to the natural flavours of the Pacific Ocean and the Marlborough and Canterbury regions with a carefully curated menu of regional delicacies that are freshly prepared in a custom-built kitchen carriage and served at your seat throughout the journey. Service starts: 14 December 2023.

Read more Everything you need to know about Air New Zealand’s Skynest Six New Zealand landmarks you need to explore The Coromandel: A little-known (but locally loved) New Zealand hotspot

Tags: Best Train Journeys in the world , Coastal Pacific , Great Journeys New Zealand , New Zealand

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The Great Journeys of New Zealand

You'll see so much more of New Zealand when you travel by train. You can sit back in comfort and watch the scenery glide past, through enormous panoramic windows. There's a spectacular range of scenery waiting for you - rugged coastlines and rolling hills, winding rivers, towering mountains and untouched alpine landscapes - much of which you'd never get to see from the road.

You'll travel in the comfort of our world-class scenic carriages, featuring panoramic windows, open-air viewing carriage and GPS-triggered at-seat commentary.

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Great Journeys New Zealand Appear in The New York Times Prestigious Global Destinations List

KiwiRail is beyond thrilled to represent New Zealand in being featured on The New York Times ’52 places to go in 2024’ list.

‘New Zealand by Train’ appears at number four on the list, positioned proudly between Yamaguchi, Japan and Maui, Hawaii. Great Journeys NZ’s 17-day Signature Tour was recommended in the publication’s annual collection of holiday destinations.

General Manager of Great Journeys New Zealand, Tracey Goodall, says “To be acknowledged by a publication as prestigious as the New York Times is a true honour.

“Our passionate crew and tour guides always go above and beyond to ensure phenomenal customer experiences; this is great recognition of the international gold standard the Great Journeys team continue to deliver.

“Our TranzAlpine, Coastal Pacific and Northern Explorer train trips are widely recognised globally as ‘must-do’ day experiences. Our multiday tours feature these journeys, while visiting lesser-known regions that lie off the beaten track. Our customers love the unique proposition rail provides when they travel throughout New Zealand.”

The article celebrates how the immersive nature of rail is complimented by the diverse and breath-taking views the country’s railways have to offer, “Road-tripping across New Zealand via camper van is a free-spirited traveller’s dream. But a simpler and more sustainable way to go is by train. Opt for a 17-day journey on the Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine trains offered by Great Journeys, the tourism division of KiwiRail, New Zealand’s national rail operator.”

The Great Journeys ‘New Zealand Up Close’ Signature Tour offers 17 days traveling New Zealand with a dedicated Tour Guide, includes all 3 scenic train trips, a variety of unique activities, several meals and four-star accommodation.

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Great Journeys of New Zealand Scenic Journeys Introduction

Discover New Zealand and the true beauty of train travel with The Great Journeys of New Zealand's unique scenic train journeys.

Great Journeys of New Zealand Scenic Journeys, New Zealand's only passenger rail company, combines world famous scenic New Zealand train journeys with quality facilities and comfort.

Re-discover New Zealand and the romance of travel by rail or as our American visitors say, travel on the railroad.

Visit our Website Make a Booking

The Great Journeys of New Zealand TranzAlpine Train

The The Great Journeys of New Zealand TranzAlpine scenic train journey travels between Christchurch and Greymouth, from one coast of New Zealand to the other.

See the stunning scenery of New Zealand from coast to coast from the comfort of your carriage.

Starting on the East Coast of New Zealand, travel through the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. Climb into the Southern Alps before descending through lush beech rain forest to the West Coast town of Greymouth.

All carriages include both one way seating and tabled group seating allowing you to experience the amazing views of our beautiful country, while also enjoying the company of other passengers.

An open air viewing deck allows you to get even closer to the stunning scenery and preserve its beauty in time with photography. Fully licensed on board cafes have a delicious range of snacks, meals and beverages, and GPS triggered at-seat commentary ensures no highlights are missed.

This scenic New Zealand train journey is 223.8 kilometres long and takes just four and a half hours one way. There are 16 tunnels, and 5 viaducts, the highest being the Staircase standing at 73 metres.

The Great Journeys of New Zealand Coastal Pacific Train

The The Great Journeys of New Zealand Coastal Pacific scenic train travels between Picton, at the top of the South Island of New Zealand, and Christchurch, the gateway to the south

Travel between the stunning Kaikoura mountain ranges and the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline.

Along the way you'll pass though the seaside town of Kaikoura, where, if you're touring New Zealand, you can break the journey to experience whale watching or swim with the dolphins.

The The Great Journeys of New Zealand Coastal Pacific is one of the world's most scenic train journeys. Your train travels through 22 tunnels and crosses 175 bridges, one of them being New Zealand's only road-rail bridge.

This scenic New Zealand train journey also includes an open air viewing, GPS triggered audio commentary and a licensed café.

The Great Journeys of New Zealand Northern Explorer Train

The The Great Journeys of New Zealand Northern Explorer is a journey through the heart of the North Island, travelling between Auckland—New Zealand's largest city, to Wellington—New Zealand's arts and culture capital.

Along the way you will pass the Central North Island ski towns of National Park and Ohakune, popular with young and old tourists alike. You also see fantastic views of New Zealand farmland, the volcanic plateau, Mount Ruapehu, the world famous Raurimu Spiral, and stunning river gorges—all from huge panoramic windows or the open air viewing decks.

New Zealand's spectacularly beautiful landscape includes vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords and lush rainforests.

New Zealand is comparable in size to Great Britain, Colorado or Japan, yet we have a population of only 4.1 million, making it one of the world's least crowded countries. It is a haven for those seeking peace, rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrill seekers and adventurers.

New Zealand has a temperate climate with relatively small seasonal variation making it an ideal year-round holiday destination.

New Zealanders have a unique and dynamic culture, with European, Maori, Pacific and Asian influences. It's a culture that celebrates the many different lifestyles we live, and the stories we have to tell.

While New Zealand is a relatively young country, it has a rich and fascinating history, reflecting both our Maori and European heritage. Amazing Maori historic sites and taonga (treasures), some dating back almost a thousand years, are a contrast to many beautiful colonial buildings. A walk around any New Zealand city today shows what a culturally diverse and fascinating country we have become.

Train travel in New Zealand is a great way to see some of the stunning scenery on offer.

10 Of The Most Beautiful National Parks You Can Visit In New Zealand

N ew Zealand is famous for being one of the most picturesque countries in the world as well as being one of the most travel-friendly countries. The national parks in New Zealand reflect the beauty and natural diversity of the Pacific island nation. New Zealand is reasonably large — a similar landmass to the state of Colorado — but spread out over a much larger area because of its irregular shape.

When going to New Zealand, the national parks are some of the most important attractions — and in New Zealand, the national parks are all free . New Zealand currently has 13 national parks and all of them are utterly stunning. Here are some of the best national parks in New Zealand.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is by far the largest National Park in the nation and is located in the southwest of the South Island. Fiordland National Park protects some of the most unspoiled landscapes in the country and some of the most dramatic. It is famous for its majestic mountains, alpine lakes, timeless forests, and breathtaking fjords.

• Fiordland's most famous fjords are Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.

Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park is located in the heart of the North Island and protects other-worldly volcanic landscapes .

It is most famous for the Tongariro Crossing where visitors spend a day trekking through the lands used for filming Mordor in the Lord of the Rings. Travelers will love seeing the emerald-colored alpine lakes and volcanic cones and other volcanic features.

Related: Arthur’s Pass National Park: How To Hike The Backbone Of New Zealand's Southern Alps

Arthur's Pass National Park

Arthur's Pass is at the center of the South Island and protects some of the most dramatic mountains of the Southern Alps. It is the only national park that can be accessed by train in New Zealand, which makes for not only an amazing sightseeing experience, but a comfortable one, too.

The Transalpine Train is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world and a must for anyone visiting New Zealand.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is located along the southern part of the Southern Alps. The mountains here are famous as some of the most dramatic in New Zealand, and many aspire to see (and climb) them.

They may not be as tall as those of Mount Cook National Park which has the tallest mountains in the country, but they are equally dramatic in their own right.

Related: Why Visit Great Barrier Island: New Zealand's Most Forgotten Island

Mount Egmont National Park

Mount Egmont National Park is another of the best national parks on the North Island. The park protects Mount Taranaki (also called Mount Egmont) — it is one of the most beautiful and iconic cone volcanoes in New Zealand.

• Mount Taranaki is normally snow-capped and rises dramatically up out of the plains. It was even used to represent Japan's Mount Fuji in the 2003 Tom Cruise movie, The Last Samurai.

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook is the tallest mountain in New Zealand and is permanently snow-capped with glaciers descending dramatically from its peaks.

At 3,755 meters tall, Mount Cook is not a particularly tall mountain by global standards, but it is still a challenging mountain to climb and it requires technical mountaineering.

Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park is named in honor of the first European to discover New Zealand (a Dutchman) and the park protects some of New Zealand's most dramatic coastal scenery.

It has the Abel Tasman Track, one of the Great Walks of New Zealand that explores some of the most picturesque beaches in the country.

Related: Why Stewart Island, New Zealand's Third Island, Is Worth Visiting

Rakiura National Park

Rakiura National Park is the only national park in New Zealand not located on one of the two main islands. Rakiura National Park covers around 85% of New Zealand's third island, Stewart Island (also called Rakiura).

It is the youngest of the national parks and perhaps the most remote. It is also one of the few places in New Zealand where is reasonably easy to see the iconic kiwi bird in the wild with a special tour .

Westland Tai Poutini National Park

The Westland Tai Poutini National Park is famous in New Zealand as it protects the most popular glaciers, Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. It extends from the peaks of the Southern Alps to the rainforests of the remote South Island's West Coast.

The rainforests are dramatic, and the glaciers are some of the only opportunities to almost see a glacier descend into a rainforest.

Whanganui National Park

Whanganui National Park is one of the national parks on the North Island, and it protects some of the unspoiled lands boarding the Whanganui River.

• Taking a multiday rafting trip down the Whanganui River is one of the most rewarding things people can do in New Zealand and is the only "Great Walk" that isn't actually walking.

No matter which National Park travelers venture to in New Zealand, they are sure to make memories and maybe some gorgeous snapshots to remember the adventure with.