Holiday PackageRail

14 Day Scenic Rail Trail

Secure with a deposit
From GB£ 6,196* per person (twin share)

Overview

Embark on a breathtaking 14-day journey through New Zealand, showcasing its most iconic sights and diverse landscapes.

From Auckland’s volcanic wonders and Rotorua’s rich Māori culture to the captivating rail journeys of the Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific, and TranzAlpine, this itinerary offers unparalleled scenic beauty. Marvel at Kaikoura’s marine life, explore the historic charm of Queenstown and Arrowtown, and cruise the majestic Milford Sound. With stops at cultural landmarks, world-class wineries, and the towering peaks of Mt Cook, this adventure is the perfect blend of natural splendor and unforgettable experiences.

Duration 14 days / 13 nights
Starts Auckland, North Island
Ends Christchurch, South Island
Destinations Auckland, Christchurch, Franz Josef, Kaikoura, Queenstown, Rotorua, Wellington
Code ANZ14DSRT

Inclusions

    • 01 Oct – 14 Dec 2025: Fly from Edinburgh from £6,085* pp
    • 11 Jan – 17 Mar 2026: Fly from Edinburgh from £6,215* pp
    • London Heathrow flight prices are reflected below
  • Private transfer from Auckland Airport to Auckland accommodation
    • Stay in a King Room
  • Auckland Highlights Luxury Tour
  • One Way Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Coach Tour
    • Stay in a Deluxe Room
  • TE PA TU Evening Cultural Experience ex Rotorua
  • One Way transfer from Rotorua to Hamilton
  • One Way Northern Explorer Train Journey from Hamilton to Wellington
  • Shared Coach Transfer from Wellington Railway Station to Wellington accommodation
    • Stay in a Terrace Room
  • Shared Coach Transfer from Wellington accommodation to Interislander Ferry Terminal
  • Interislander One Way Ferry Journey from Wellington to Picton
  • One Way Coastal Pacific Train Journey from Picton to Kaikoura
  • Shared Coach transfer from Kaikoura Railway Station to Kaikoura accommodation
    • Stay in a Deluxe King Room
  • Whale Watch Tour
  • Shared Coach transfer from Kaikoura accommodation to Kaikoura Railway Station
  • One Way Coastal Pacific Train Journey from Kaikoura to Christchurch
  • Shared Coach transfer from Christchurch Railway Station to Christchurch accommodation
    • Stay in a Classic Room
  • One way Coach transfer from Christchurch accommodation to Christchurch Railway Station
  • One Way Tranz Alpine Train Journey from Christchurch to Greymouth
  • Shared Coach Transfer from Greymouth Railway Station to Franz Josef accommodation
    • Stay in a Deluxe Room
    • Includes Dinner & Breakfast
  • One way Coach transfer from Franz Josef accommodation to Queenstown accommodation
    • Stay in a Superior Room
  • Half Day Queenstown Highlights Tour
  • Buffet Dinner at Skyline’s Gondolas Stratosfare Restaurant including Return Gondola ride
  • Full Day Small Group Coach and Milford Sound Cruise Tour including Packed Lunch ex Queenstown
  • One way Coach from Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook
    • Stay in a Classic Room
  • Private transfer from Christchurch accommodation to Christchurch Airport
Travel from Travel until Price from
01 Oct 2025 14 Dec 2025 GB£ 6,196* per person (twin share)
11 Jan 2026 17 Mar 2026 GB£ 6,326* per person (twin share)
  • Begin your journey with a private transfer from Auckland Airport to your accommodation. Spend the rest of the afternoon unwinding or exploring at your leisure.

    voco Auckland City Centre
  • Embark on the Auckland Highlights Luxury Tour with TIME Unlimited Tours and uncover the city’s diverse wonders:

    • Volcanic Landscapes: Marvel at Auckland’s unique volcanic terrain, including iconic Rangitoto, the youngest and largest volcano in the Auckland Volcanic Field.
    • Historic Hotspots: Explore the Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park, and take in views of the impressive Auckland Museum. Stroll through Parnell, a charming suburb steeped in colonial history.
    • City Icons: Enjoy panoramic vistas from Tamaki Drive and visit famous sites like Mission Bay and Bastion Point. Cross the Harbour Bridge to Devonport, a picturesque village filled with cafes and boutique shops.
    • A Cultural Journey: Head to Auckland’s West Coast and discover the Waitakere Ranges. Immerse yourself in Māori lore as you wander through ancient forests and marvel at dramatic black-sand beaches.
    voco Auckland City Centre
  • Travel from Auckland to Rotorua with a scenic stop at the enchanting Waitomo Caves. Check into your Rotorua accommodation and enjoy a leisurely afternoon.

    Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
  • Spend the morning at your own pace, perhaps soaking in a geothermal spa or exploring local attractions. In the evening, immerse yourself in Māori traditions at the Te Pā Tū Cultural Experience. Learn about the rich history of Pā as sanctuaries and community hubs while enjoying a night of storytelling, feasting, and celebration.

    Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
  • Take a shuttle transfer to Hamilton Station and board the iconic Northern Explorer train to Wellington. Upon arrival, a shuttle will take you to your accommodation. The rest of the day is yours to explore or relax.

    James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
  • Begin your journey with a ferry ride from Wellington to Picton, where you’ll board the scenic Coastal Pacific train to Kaikoura. A shuttle will transfer you to your accommodation. The afternoon is at your leisure to soak in the coastal beauty.

    Sudima Hotel Kaikoura
  • Start your day with a breathtaking Whale Watching Tour, where you might spot majestic sperm whales, dolphins, and seals. In the afternoon, board the Coastal Pacific train and travel to Christchurch. A shuttle will take you to your accommodation, where you can unwind.

    Distinction Christchurch Hotel
  • Journey aboard the TranzAlpine train, a world-famous rail experience through the Southern Alps to Greymouth. From there, transfer to Franz Josef. Spend the rest of the day relaxing in this alpine paradise.

    Te Waonui Forest Retreat
  • Travel from Franz Josef to Queenstown via private transfer. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore New Zealand’s adventure capital.

    Scenic Suites Queenstown
  • Join Appellation Wine Tours for a morning of sightseeing:

    • Capture panoramic views from Queenstown Hill.
    • Visit the Gibbston wine region and experience the thrill of bungy at the Kawarau Bridge.
    • Enjoy wine tasting at Gibbston Valley Winery and explore its cheesery and gift shop.
    • Discover the charm of Arrowtown’s gold rush-era streets and historic Chinese Settlement.
    • Conclude with dramatic views of the Shotover River at Arthurs Point.
    Scenic Suites Queenstown
  • Take a fully guided small-group tour to Milford Sound, enjoying multiple scenic stops en route. Board a boutique cruise and marvel at cascading waterfalls, sheer cliffs, and local wildlife. Enjoy a packed lunch and complimentary refreshments as you take in the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder. Return to Queenstown in the evening.

    Scenic Suites Queenstown
  • Spend the day at your own pace. Optional activities include:

    • Jet boating on Lake Wakatipu
    • Riding the Skyline Gondola for epic views
    • Exploring the nearby vineyards of Gibbston Valley
    • Taking a scenic flight over Fiordland
    Scenic Suites Queenstown
  • Travel to Christchurch via Mount Cook, where you can stop to admire the breathtaking alpine landscapes. Spend your afternoon at leisure in Christchurch.

    Distinction Christchurch
  • Conclude your adventure with a transfer to Christchurch Airport for your departure.

Package price is based on 2 people and are priced in Great British Pounds. Pricing is correct at the time of submission but is subject to change without notice. Valid for travel from 01 Oct 25 – 17 Mar 26. Blackout periods may apply. Surcharges may apply over special event periods and over school holidays. Inclusions are subject to change based on supplier operational capabilities. International flights provided are with Qantas Airways flying economy class with 23kg checked luggage. Flight supplier terms and conditions apply.

Collection