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11 Day Classic Southern Highlights Train Tour

Sep-Apr

South Island

Great Journeys of New Zealand

from

NZ$7199

per adult

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

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11 Day Classic Southern Highlights Train Tour

Experiences

Train & Rail Journeys

Coach Tours

South Island

Start: Wellington (or Queenstown)

Finish: Queenstown (or Wellington)

Locations: Wellington, Queenstown

Duration: 11 days

Minimum Age: 16

Details

Whale Watching, Rainforests, and Glacier Views

New Zealand’s South Island unfolds in spectacular fashion on this 11-day guided journey by train. From Wellington to Queenstown, travel through dramatic landscapes, crossing the Cook Strait, winding past the Southern Alps, and exploring the rugged beauty of the West Coast. Highlights include scenic train rides on the world-renowned TranzAlpine, a visit to the iconic Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, and the chance to spot whales and dolphins in Kaikōura.

A balance of guided experiences and free time allows for a personalised adventure. Explore treetop walkways, discover the rich history of pounamu on the West Coast, or simply relax and take in the scenery. Handpicked 3-4 star accommodation, delicious local meals, and the company of like-minded travellers make this an unforgettable South Island escape.

Travel Northbound: Queenstown to Wellington Tours Available

Sunset view from Mt. Victoria overlooking Wellington city and harbour

Interislander’s Kaitaki ferry departing Wellington

Man observing vineyard landscape near Blenheim from the Coastal Pacific train

Sperm whale tail dripping water in Kaikōura with mountains in background

Christchurch tram travelling along colourful New Regent Street with alfresco dining.

TranzAlpine train at Springfield Station with Southern Alps behind

TranzAlpine train beside Lake Sarah with snowy mountain backdrop

Buckingham Street in Arrowtown during summer, lined with trees and historic buildings.

Queenstown overlooking Lake Wakatipu and the snow-capped Southern Alps at sunset

INCLUSIONS

Experiences

Fully guided small group tour with an experienced Tour Director
Te Papa Museum introduction tour
Christchurch city orientation tour
Guided walk at West Coast Tree Top Walk
Visit to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
Scenic train travel on the Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine routes
Interislander Ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton
Free time and optional activities to personalise your experience

Transportation

Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
Interislander Ferry (Cook Strait)
TranzAlpine Scenic Train
Private coaches for regional travel
Shuttle transfers (excluding airport arrival)
Porterage at accommodation

Meals

10 Breakfasts
3 Dinners
2 Meals on board the train

Accommodation

3 to 4 Star Hotel accommodation (10 nights)
Twin share rooms
Single upgrade available

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

Departure & Route: Tour starts in Wellington and ends in Queenstown (Northbound option available)
Group Size: Maximum of 35 travellers
Minimum Age: 16 years and over (under 18 must be accompanied by an adult)
Seasonal Variations: Some inclusions may change depending on the time of year

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: Arrival & Welcome

Arrive in either Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital, or Queenstown, the country’s adventure hub, depending on your chosen tour route. Settle into your hotel before exploring the city at your own pace—visit Te Papa Museum in Wellington or take in the mountain views along Queenstown’s waterfront. As the evening sets in, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director at a welcome reception to officially begin your journey.

Day 2: Wellington to Marlborough

Crossing the Cook Strait
Say farewell to the North Island as you board the Interislander ferry. Enjoy a hearty breakfast and soak in the spectacular views of Queen Charlotte Sound as you cruise to the South Island. Disembark in Picton and arrive in the renowned Marlborough region.

Day 3: Marlborough to Kaikōura

Coastal Train to Kaikōura
Spend the morning exploring Picton’s waterfront or visiting the Omaka Aviation Museum. In the afternoon, board the Coastal Pacific train and journey south through vineyards, beaches, and mountain ranges to Kaikōura. Keep an eye out for fur seals basking on the rocks.

Day 4: Kaikōura to Christchurch

Sperm whale tail diving in Kaikōura with snow-capped mountains in the background

Whale Watching and Scenic Travel
Today is yours to explore Kaikōura. Opt for an unforgettable whale watching tour or a dolphin swim. Enjoy some fresh seafood before rejoining the Coastal Pacific train in the afternoon for a scenic journey to Christchurch.

Day 5: Discover Christchurch

Blue City Tour tram travelling along Cashel Street in Christchurch city centre.

Trams, Gardens and Local Flavours
Explore Christchurch aboard the historic tram and hear the city’s stories. Spend the afternoon at your leisure—visit the Botanical Gardens, Quake City Museum, or punt along the Avon River. This evening, enjoy a group dinner in the heart of the city.

Day 6: Christchurch to West Coast

TranzAlpine train crossing Waimakariri River on a clear day

TranzAlpine and Pancake Rocks
Board the iconic TranzAlpine train for an unforgettable journey across the Southern Alps. Upon arrival on the West Coast, continue by coach to Punakaiki to visit the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes.

Day 7: West Coast to Franz Josef

Person helihiking on Fox Glacier under a bright sun halo in the Southern Alps

Tree Tops and Glaciers
Begin your day with a walk high above the forest at the West Coast Tree Top Walk. Travel south to Glacier Country and take a short nature walk for views of Franz Josef Glacier. Optional helicopter flights and hot pools are also available this afternoon.

Day 8: Franz Josef to Queenstown

Alpine Passes and Historic Towns
Travel through the stunning Haast Pass with photo stops along the way. Visit a local fruit stall and explore historic Arrowtown before arriving in Queenstown—New Zealand’s adventure capital.

Day 9: Queenstown Free Day

Aerial view of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu from Bob’s Peak on a sunny day

Milford Sound Optional Tour
Today is free to enjoy Queenstown or join an optional full-day tour to Milford Sound. Explore dramatic fjords and waterfalls by boat, and optionally return by scenic flight. In the evening, unwind at one of Queenstown’s lively restaurants or bars.

Day 10: Explore Queenstown

Couple enjoying wine and food at a lakeside restaurant in Queenstown with mountain views

Final Highlights and Farewell Dinner
Make the most of your final full day—perhaps join a winery tour in Gibbston Valley, take a jet boat ride, or enjoy the views from the Skyline Gondola. This evening, share memories and a delicious farewell dinner with your travel companions.

Day 11: Departure & Farewell

Peaceful shoreline of Lake Wakatipu with autumn trees and snow-capped mountains in Queenstown

The journey comes to an end after a final breakfast with your fellow travellers. In both Queenstown and Wellington, take the morning to reflect on unforgettable experiences before transferring to the airport for your onward travels.

For those not ready to say goodbye, we can assist with extending your stay, allowing more time to explore and enjoy New Zealand at your own pace.

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.

Departure Dates

Wellington to Queenstown
2025	September 9, 16	October 7, 28	November 18	December 9, 30
2026	January 4*	February 17	March 10, 17, 31	April 19*

*Queenstown to Wellington

Pricing

September 2025-April 2026

Twin Share: NZ$7,199 per person
Single Supplement: NZ$1,999

Pricing is correct at the time of publishing but is subject to change without prior notice.

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TOUR QUESTIONS

PAYMENTS

Non-refundable deposit of 25% is required upon booking
Balance is payable 70 days before departure

CHANGES/CANCELLATIONS

In the event that a traveller cancels a tour, the following fees apply prior to departure:

66 days or more prior to departure: 25% cancellation fee.
36 - 65 days prior to departure: 60%.
0 - 35 days prior to departure: 100%.

Note: *Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

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