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15 Day Classic New Zealand Highlights Train Tour

Sep-Apr

Both Islands

Great Journeys of New Zealand

from

NZ$9749

per adult

Northern Explorer train leaving Auckland City, Sky Tower

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15 Day Classic New Zealand Highlights train journey map across North and South Islands

Experiences

Train & Rail Journeys

Coach Tours

Both Islands

Start: Auckland (or Queenstown)

Finish: Queenstown (or Auckland)

Locations: Auckland, Queenstown

Duration: 15 days

Minimum Age: 16

Details

Culture, Coastlines and Mountain Scenery

This 15-day rail journey brings together the best of Aotearoa’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Travelling from Auckland to Queenstown, you’ll ride three of the country’s most iconic trains: the Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific, and TranzAlpine. Each rail leg reveals something new—volcanic plateaus, rugged coastlines, and the dramatic Southern Alps.

Beyond the tracks, highlights include a guided tour of Te Papa Museum, a ferry crossing through the Marlborough Sounds, and a walk among the treetops of native rainforest. Kaikōura adds a touch of wildlife magic, with the chance to spot dolphins or whales just offshore. Comfortable 3–4 star accommodation and a professional Tour Director ensure a seamless travel experience throughout.

Flexible Travel with Unforgettable Views

The itinerary offers a balanced blend of structure and flexibility, allowing for free time in key locations like Queenstown and Christchurch. Whether it's a quiet soak in hot pools or an active day cycling scenic trails, there’s space to make the journey your own. Optional excursions and local tips from your guide help you personalise the experience to suit your interests.

Travelling northbound from Queenstown to Auckland is also available on select dates, ideal for those with specific plans or connections. With curated meals, private coach transfers, and luggage porterage included, the tour is as convenient as it is captivating. Every day brings new perspectives, with landscapes and local stories that leave a lasting impression.

Northern Explorer train at Auckland Strand, Sky Tower

Mt Ruapehu view from Northern Explorer train

Interislander Kaitaki ferry moored at Picton waterfront

Coastal Pacific train passing along the Kaikōura coastline in South Island, New Zealand

Coastal Pacific train crossing viaduct near Picton with Marlborough Sounds in background

Sperm whale tail dripping water in Kaikōura with mountains in background

TranzAlpine train boarding at Christchurch Station platform

TranzAlpine train near Cass with snow-capped mountains

Powerful ocean surge at the Pancake Rocks and Blowhole in Punakaiki, West Coast

Visitor standing on the elevated walkway at Hokitika Treetop Walk surrounded by native rainforest canopy

INCLUSIONS

Experiences

Guided introduction tour at Te Papa Museum in Wellington
Scenic Cook Strait ferry crossing through Marlborough Sounds
Guided walk at Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
West Coast Tree Top Walk among native rainforest canopy
Three iconic rail journeys: Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific & TranzAlpine
Free time and optional excursions to personalise your experience
Expert guidance from a professional Tour Director throughout

Transport & Transfers

Northern Explorer Scenic Train (Auckland to Wellington)
Coastal Pacific Scenic Train (Picton to Christchurch)
TranzAlpine Scenic Train (Christchurch to Greymouth)
Interislander Ferry (Wellington to Picton)
Private coach travel to regional highlights
Local shuttles (excluding airport transfers)
Porterage at all accommodations

Meals Included

14 breakfasts
4 dinners
4 meals onboard scenic trains

Accommodation

14 nights in quality 3–4 star hotels
Twin-share rooms (single supplement available)

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

Tour Duration & Group Size: 15-day itinerary with a maximum group size of 35 people.
Departure & Destination: Tour begins in Auckland and ends in Queenstown (or reverse).
Age Requirements: Minimum age is 16 years, with under-18s requiring an accompanying adult.
Seasonal Variations: Some inclusions and activities may vary based on the time of year.
Physical Requirements: Moderate activity level, with walking, train travel, and optional excursions requiring varying fitness levels.

Solo Traveller Choices

Guaranteed Share: Travelling solo? Choose our Guaranteed Share option, and we'll pair you with another solo traveller of the same gender in a twin-bedded room. If we’re unable to find a match, we’ll cover the cost of the Single Supplement.
Single Supplement: Prefer your own space? Opt for the Single Supplement at the time of booking to enjoy a private room throughout your trip

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Auckland

Welcome to Auckland, the vibrant City of Sails. After check-in, take time to explore local highlights such as the Sky Tower, Queen Street, or the lively bars and cafés of Vulcan Lane. In the evening, meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers over a welcome drink.

Day 2: Auckland to Tongariro National Park

Northern Explorer train passing through the Hapuawhenua viaduct

Board the Northern Explorer train for a scenic ride through the rolling farmland of Waikato to the volcanic landscapes of the central plateau. Enjoy views of Mount Ruapehu and the remarkable Raurimu Spiral before arriving in Ohakune, where you’ll stay for two nights.

Day 3: Tongariro National Park Free Day

Three cyclists riding uphill through bush on Old Coach Road

Today is yours to explore at your own pace. Choose from optional activities such as cycling the historic Old Coach Road, soaking in hot tubs, or enjoying a peaceful walk by the river.

Day 4: Tongariro to Wellington

Northern Explorer Train view of Mount Ruapehu

After a morning visit to Mt Ruapehu for panoramic views, rejoin the Northern Explorer to continue south. Enjoy stunning views of rivers, gorges, and the Kapiti Coast before arriving in Wellington. Spend the evening exploring the capital’s waterfront and dining scene.

Day 5: Explore Wellington

Te Papa tour guide explaining Māori design during Introducing Te Papa tour

Start the day with a guided introduction to Te Papa Museum, then enjoy free time to explore at your leisure. Stroll Cuba Street, visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary, or take the cable car. In the evening, join the group for dinner.

Day 6: Wellington to Marlborough

Interislander’s Kaitaki ferry departing Wellington

Sail across the Cook Strait aboard the Interislander Ferry. Enjoy breakfast as you cruise past the scenic Marlborough Sounds, arriving into the charming port town of Picton—gateway to the South Island.

Day 7: Marlborough to Kaikōura

Marlborough vineyard rows with mountain backdrop in Blenheim, New Zealand

Enjoy a free morning in Picton or visit nearby Blenheim before boarding the Coastal Pacific train. Travel past vineyards, coastline, and mountain ranges to reach Kaikōura, where fresh seafood and ocean views await.

Day 8: Kaikōura to Christchurch

Spend the morning exploring Kaikōura. Optional experiences include whale watching, dolphin encounters, or scenic flights. In the afternoon, continue your rail journey south to Christchurch, enjoying dinner onboard as you pass coastal scenery and inland plains.

Day 9: Explore Christchurch

Colourful heritage buildings with outdoor seating on Regent Street, Christchurch

Explore Christchurch by vintage tram and discover its blend of old and new architecture. Visit the Botanic Gardens, Art Centre, or Riverside Market. Optional excursions include punting on the Avon or a day trip to Akaroa. In the evening, enjoy a group dinner.

Day 10: Christchurch to Punakaiki

View of the Southern Alps from TranzAlpine train at Arthur’s Pass

Ride the legendary TranzAlpine train across the Southern Alps, passing the Waimakariri River and Otira Tunnel. After arriving in Greymouth, transfer to Punakaiki to explore the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes.

Day 11: West Coast to Franz Josef

Franz Josef village main street with views of the Southern Alps on the West Coast

Begin the day with a treetop walk among native forest canopy. Continue south to Franz Josef, where you’ll take a short nature walk to a glacier viewpoint. Optional helicopter flights or hot pools are available in the afternoon.

Day 12: Franz Josef to Queenstown

Historic miners’ cottages in Arrowtown surrounded by golden autumn leaves

Travel through the scenic Haast Pass with stops along the way. Visit the Haast Visitor Centre, grab fresh fruit at Mrs Jones’ Fruit Stall, and explore the gold rush town of Arrowtown. Arrive in Queenstown by late afternoon.

Day 13: Queenstown Free Day

TSS Earnslaw sailing on calm waters of Lake Whakatipu in full daylight

Explore Queenstown your way. Join an optional tour to Milford Sound, enjoy a return scenic flight, cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw, or simply relax by Lake Wakatipu. Your evening is free to dine or enjoy the nightlife.

Day 14: Queenstown at Leisure + Farewell Dinner

Panoramic view of Lake Wakatipu and Frankton from Cecil Peak in Queenstown

Make the most of your final full day with optional activities like wine tasting, horse trekking, or a lake cruise. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your group.

Day 15: Departing Queenstown

Steamer Wharf and Queenstown Bay at dusk with lights reflecting on Lake Wakatipu

Your tour ends after breakfast. A transfer to Queenstown Airport is included. Speak to the team if you’d like to extend your stay.

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.