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North Island

Start: Auckland (or Wellington)
Finish: Wellington (or Auckland)
Locations: Auckland, Wellington
Duration: 6 days
Minimum Age: 16

Details

Discover North Island Landscapes by Train

New Zealand’s North Island offers a stunning mix of vibrant cities, charming towns, and breathtaking landscapes on this six-day guided adventure. The journey from Auckland to Wellington takes you through volcanic peaks, rolling hills, and dramatic coastlines, with highlights such as Tongariro National Park, the Raurimu Spiral, and the Kāpiti Coast. The Northern Explorer scenic train provides a comfortable and scenic way to experience the beauty of the region.

A well-balanced itinerary combines expert guidance with free time to explore at your own pace. Comfortable 3-4 star accommodation, delicious meals, and engaging storytelling from the Tour Director make this journey both enriching and relaxing. With opportunities to meet fellow travellers and discover some of New Zealand’s most iconic sights, this tour offers an unforgettable experience.

Travel Northbound: Wellington to Auckland Tours Available 

INCLUSIONS

Experiences

  • Guided by a professional Tour Director throughout
  • Introduction tour of Te Papa Museum
  • Scenic Northern Explorer train journey with panoramic views and onboard dining
  • Free time to personalise your holiday with optional excursions

Transport

  • Northern Explorer Scenic Train
  • Private coach transfers to regional highlights
  • Local shuttles (excluding airport transfers)
  • Porterage included for convenience

Meals

  • 5 breakfasts
  • 2 dinners
  • 2 meals onboard the train

Accommodation

  • 3 – 4 star hotel accommodation (5 nights)
  • Twin share
  • Single upgrade available

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

  • Departure & Destination: The tour runs between Auckland and Wellington (both directions available)
  • Group Size: Maximum of 35 travellers
  • Age Requirements: Minimum age is 16; under 18s must be accompanied by an adult
  • Solo Traveller Options:
    • Guaranteed Share: Match with another solo traveller of the same gender (if no match is available, the Single Supplement fee is covered)
    • Single Supplement: Available for those who prefer their own room
  • Seasonal Variations: Some tour inclusions and activities may vary depending on the time of year

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.

No, all our journeys, including the open-air viewing carriage, are smoke-free. Our friendly train manager will let you know if there are stops where you can stretch your legs.

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