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Both Islands

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

Details

Sip Marlborough Wines and Ride the Coastal Pacific Train

New Zealand’s Pacific coastline sets the stage for a six-day journey filled with stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences. The adventure begins in Wellington, where a ferry ride across Cook Strait offers breathtaking views of the Marlborough Sounds. A scenic train journey along the coast brings endless ocean vistas, rugged cliffs, and rolling vineyards, with a stop to enjoy world-class wine in Marlborough.

Kaikōura’s marine wildlife and Christchurch’s blend of history and modern charm add even more to this immersive experience. Whale watching, coastal walks, and leisurely explorations create the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. With premium accommodation, expertly planned activities, and the ease of a guided tour, this trip offers a stress-free way to experience the best of New Zealand’s captivating coast.

INCLUSIONS

Prepaid Attractions

  • Marlborough Wine Tour Custom Experience
  • Paua Pearl Tour with Paua Tasting
  • Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura

Transport & Transfers

  • Scenic Interislander Ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton
  • Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus rail experience with onboard commentary
  • Comfortable private coach travel to regional highlights
  • Private shuttles for local transfers (excluding airport pickup)
  • Luggage porterage throughout the tour

Meals

  • 5 breakfasts
  • 2 dinners featuring regional cuisine
  • 1 onboard meal during the Coastal Pacific rail journey

Accommodation

  • 5 nights in premium 4–5 star hotels
  • Twin-share rooms (single supplement available)
  • Tour Requirements & Group Size
    • Minimum age: 16 years and over (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult).
    • Small group size with a maximum of 20 travellers for a personalised experience.
  • Solo Traveller Options
    • Guaranteed Share: Solo travellers can be paired with another guest of the same gender at no extra cost.
    • Single Supplement: A private room upgrade is available for an additional cost.
  • Additional Considerations
    • Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season of departure.
    • Moderate walking is involved, making the tour suitable for most fitness levels.
    • Certain activities, such as whale watching, are subject to weather conditions.
    • Airport transfers are not included but can be arranged upon request.

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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