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Both Islands

Start: Auckland (or Christchurch)
Finish: Christchurch (or Auckland)
Locations: Auckland, Christchurch
Duration: 12 days
Minimum Age: 16

Details

Glowworm Caves, Coastal Cruises and Cultural Highlights

This 12-day guided journey showcases the best of New Zealand’s cities and natural landscapes, travelling from Auckland to Christchurch. Scenic train rides, coastal cruises, and private coaches take you through volcanic peaks, glowworm caves, and breathtaking coastlines. Along the way, explore vibrant cities, enjoy world-class wine tastings, and experience incredible wildlife encounters. This tour is also available in reverse, starting in Christchurch and ending in Auckland on select departure dates.

An expertly designed itinerary ensures a seamless and stress-free adventure, with a Tour Director guiding you through each remarkable destination. Highlights include a sunset dinner cruise in Raglan, a visit to the stunning Hamilton Gardens, and a scenic ferry crossing through the Marlborough Sounds. Whether travelling northbound or southbound, each day brings unforgettable experiences, from cultural storytelling to panoramic views.

INCLUSIONS

Signature Experiences

  • Choose between a stay in Rotorua or Ohakune (on selected departures)
  • Guided glowworm tour at Waitomo Caves
  • Sunset dinner cruise in Raglan
  • Wildlife experience at Sanctuary Mountain
  • Zealong Tea Estate visit with tea ceremony and high tea
  • Lunch and free time at Lauren’s Lavender Farm
  • Custom Marlborough wine tasting experience
  • Paua pearl farm tour with tasting
  • Dolphin encounter in Kaikōura (weather permitting)
  • Scenic rail journeys: Northern Explorer & Coastal Pacific (Scenic Plus class with dining)
  • Premium Plus Lounge access on the Interislander Ferry crossing
  • Fully guided by an experienced Tour Director throughout

Transport & Transfers

  • Northern Explorer and Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus trains
  • Interislander Ferry crossing between North and South Islands
  • Private coach travel for regional touring
  • Local shuttles (excluding airport transfers)
  • Porterage at hotels

Meals Included

  • 11 breakfasts
  • 1 picnic lunch
  • 5 dinners (including the Raglan cruise)
  • 4 meals onboard the trains

Accommodation

  • 11 nights in premium 4–5 star hotels
  • Twin-share rooms (single supplement available)

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

  • Tour Duration: 12 days, available in both Auckland-to-Christchurch and Christchurch-to-Auckland routes on select dates.
  • Group Size: Maximum of 20 people, ensuring a personalised experience.
  • Minimum Age: 16 years and over (Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult).
  • Seasonal Variations: Some inclusions may vary depending on departure dates.
  • Travel Style: A relaxed yet immersive experience with a mix of guided tours and free time to explore.
  • Accessibility: Guests should be comfortable with moderate walking and boarding various transportation modes.

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.

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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