Search icon

Both Islands

Start: Wellington (or Christchurch)
Finish: Christchurch (or Wellington)
Duration: 6 days
Minimum Age: 16

Details

Discover Scenic Rail, Marine Wildlife and South Island Charm

This 6-day South Island tour is a perfect mix of comfort, scenery, and discovery, travelling from Wellington to Christchurch. A scenic ferry ride across the Cook Strait leads into the Coastal Pacific train journey, offering panoramic views of rugged coastline and rolling vineyards. Wildlife encounters in Kaikōura and time in Marlborough’s wine country add unforgettable local flavour.

Each day is designed to balance guided experiences with free time to explore coastal towns and cultural landmarks. Stay in comfortable 3–4 star accommodation, enjoy included meals, and relax with seamless transport throughout. A reverse itinerary is also available, starting in Christchurch for those heading northbound.

Travel Northbound: Christchurch to Wellington Tours Available

INCLUSIONS

Experiences

  • Guided by a professional Tour Director throughout
  • Christchurch City orientation tour
  • Scenic Interislander Ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton
  • Coastal Pacific train journey with panoramic views and onboard dining
  • Ample free time with optional excursions available to suit your interests

Transport

  • Interislander Ferry across Cook Strait
  • Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
  • Private coach transfers to key destinations
  • Local shuttle services (excluding airport transfers)
  • Porterage included for convenience

Meals

  • 5 breakfasts
  • 2 dinners
  • 1 meal onboard the train

Accommodation

  • 5 nights in comfortable 3–4 star hotels (twin share)
  • Single upgrade available on request

Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season of departure.

  • Tour Details & Itinerary: A 6-day guided journey from Wellington to Christchurch (or reverse), combining structured experiences with time to explore independently.
  • Solo Traveller Options: Choose a Guaranteed Share with a same-gender solo traveller at no extra cost or a Single Supplement for a private room.
  • Seasonal Variations & Fitness Level: Some inclusions and optional activities may change by season; suitable for all fitness levels.
  • Maximum of 35 guests
  • Minimum Age: 16 years and over. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult

Frequently asked questions

Only professionally trained service animals assisting customers with disabilities are permitted onboard.

  • Scenic Class Passengers:
    • 1 Large checked bag (Max: 23kg, 158cm linear size)
    • 1 Cabin bag (Max: 7kg, 118cm linear size; wheeled/hard-sided suitcases must be checked in)
    • 1 Small bag or handbag for valuables and essentials
    • 1 Small infant bag (for passengers traveling with an infant; infants do not receive a separate luggage allowance)
  • Scenic Plus Passengers:
    • 2 Large checked bags (Max: 23kg each, 158cm linear size)
    • 1 Cabin bag (Max: 7kg, 118cm linear size; wheeled/hard-sided suitcases must be checked in)
    • 1 Small bag or handbag for valuables and essentials
    • 1 Small infant bag (for passengers traveling with an infant; infants do not receive a separate luggage allowance)

Yes, travellers with special needs or disabilities are welcome. However, please note the following:

  • Disclosure Required at Booking: You must advise us at the time of booking if you have any medical, physical, or special needs requiring accommodation during the tour.
  • Reasonable Adjustments: We will do our best to accommodate your needs where possible, unless doing so would significantly alter the nature of the services.
  • Third-Party Services: We’ll pass on your requirements to our external providers, but any modifications by those providers are at their discretion.
  • Travel Fitness: You must be medically and physically fit to undertake the tour and its activities.
  • Mobility Assistance: If you need help boarding or disembarking vehicles or require special assistance, you must travel with a carer or support person. Tour staff and fellow travellers are not responsible for providing personal assistance.
  • Medical Access: Some remote tour locations may have limited access to medical or dental services. GJNZ is not liable for costs or consequences related to this reduced access.

Yes, age restrictions apply to all tours unless otherwise stated:

  • Minimum Age: Participants must be over 16 years of age. Children under 16 are not permitted unless the tour is specifically designed as family-friendly.
  • Travellers Under 18: Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult who is responsible for their welfare for the entire duration of the tour.
  • Tour Style: Tours are designed for specific age groups, as outlined in each tour’s terms.
  • Third-Party Activities: Some included activities or services (e.g. wine tasting) may have separate age limits. You are responsible for meeting these restrictions, and no refunds or compensation will be given if you are unable to participate due to age.

Seats on scenic trains may face forward or backward, and there is no seat reservation system.

On coach travel days, we operate a seat rotation system to ensure fairness for all travellers. If you suffer from motion sickness, it is your responsibility to bring any necessary medication or remedies, as we are unable to guarantee specific seating positions or provide anti-nausea aids.

Related Tours

Some other tours you might be interested in

Sign up to our newsletter for special deals & exciting news.