Overview
Embark on the ultimate New Zealand rail adventure, taking you across both the North and South Islands.
Over 19 days, you’ll explore iconic landscapes, from lush rainforests to stunning alpine vistas, all while enjoying the comfort and scenic views of New Zealand’s famous rail journeys. From the vibrant cities to remote towns, this package offers the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and discovery. Experience the rich culture, natural beauty, and unique charm of Aotearoa, making memories that will last a lifetime.
Duration | 19 days / 18 nights |
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Starts | Auckland, North Island |
Ends | Christchurch, South Island |
Destinations | Auckland, Bay of Islands, Christchurch, Dunedin, Franz Josef, Greymouth, Hobbiton, Hokitika, Kaikoura, Milford Sound, Picton, Queenstown, Rotorua, Wellington |
Code | ANZ19DUNZRE |
Inclusions
- 02 Oct – 15 Dec 2025: Fly from Edinburgh from £6,961* pp
- 08 Jan – 14 Mar 2026: Fly from Edinburgh from £7,105* pp
- London Heathrow flight prices are reflected below
- Private transfer from Auckland Airport to Auckland accommodation
- Stay in a King Room
- One-way Intercity Coach Journey from Auckland to Paihia
- Stay in a Standard Room
- Waitangi National Trust Experience Pass
- Half Day Discover the Bay Cruise
- One-way Intercity Coach Journey from Paihia to Auckland
- Stay in a King Room
- One Way Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Coach Tour
- Stay in a Deluxe Room
- TE PA TU Evening Cultural Experience ex Rotorua
- Half Day Eco Thermal Day Tour
- Hobbiton Movie Set Tour and Buffet Lunch ex Rotorua, return to Auckland
- Stay in a King Room
- Private Transfer from Auckland accommodation to Auckland Railway Station
- One Way Northern Explorer Train Journey from Auckland to Wellington
- Private Transfer from Wellington Railway Station to Wellington accommodation
- Stay in a Terrace Room
- Private 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
- Includes Breakfast
- Whale Watch Tour
- Shared Coach transfer from Kaikoura accommodation to Kaikoura Railway Station
- One Way Coastal Pacific Train Journey from Kaikoura to Christchurch
- Private Transfer from Christchurch Railway Station to Christchurch accommodation
- Stay in a Classic Room
- Private 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
- Full Day Small Group Coach and Milford Sound Cruise Tour including Packed Lunch ex Queenstown
- One Way Intercity Coach Journey from Queenstown to Dunedin
- Stay in a Superior Room
- Full Day Taste of Dunedin & Monarch Wildlife Cruise
- One-way Intercity Coach from Dunedin to Christchurch
- Stay in a Classic Room
- Private transfer from Christchurch accommodation to Christchurch Airport
Pricing & Dates
Back to topItinerary
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Welcome to Auckland, upon your arrival a transfer will take you from the airport to your accommodation in the city. The rest of the day is yours to explore how you choose.
voco Auckland -
This morning, enjoy a one-way coach journey to the coastal beauty of the Bay of Islands. In the afternoon, explore the historic Waitangi site, where the famous treaty was signed on 6 February 1840.
Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands -
Board your cruise in Paihia and set sail through the breathtaking Bay of Islands on this scenic and adventure-filled experience. Glide across turquoise waters as your skipper shares fascinating insights about the region’s history, wildlife, and Māori culture.
Cruise through the iconic Hole in the Rock (weather permitting) and keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, and seabirds along the way. Stop at Urupukapuka Island, where you can soak up the coastal beauty, take a swim, or explore the island’s walking trails.
With expert commentary and stunning scenery at every turn, this cruise is the perfect way to experience the best of the Bay of Islands. Return to Paihia in the afternoon, filled with incredible memories of this marine paradise.
Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands -
Spend the morning exploring the Bay of Islands one last time before catching an afternoon coach journey back to Auckland.
voco Auckland -
Today you will be whisked off to the cultural hub of New Zealand, Rotorua. Along the way, enjoy a stop at the mesmerising Waitomo, where the cave ceilings are adorned with a milky way of glow worms. After arriving in Rotorua, the rest of the day is yours to explore how you choose.
Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua -
Start the day exploring Rotorua’s unique geothermal landscape on a guided tour through bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and stunning hot springs. Learn about the region’s volcanic activity and the deep cultural connections the local Māori people have with the land. Wander through geothermal valleys, take in the vivid mineral colours, and witness powerful geysers erupting before your eyes.
After an afternoon at leisure, immerse yourself in Māori culture with an unforgettable evening experience. Begin with a traditional welcome and gain insight into the customs, stories, and artistry of Aotearoa’s first people. Watch mesmerising performances, witness the powerful haka, and enjoy a delicious feast cooked using the traditional hangi method.
Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua -
Journey into the heart of Middle-earth with a visit to the famous Hobbiton Movie Set. Wander through the rolling green hills of the Shire, exploring the charming hobbit holes, the iconic Party Tree, and the famous Green Dragon Inn. Your guide will share behind-the-scenes stories and fascinating details about how this magical film set was brought to life.
After exploring, sit down for a hearty buffet lunch inspired by the world of Tolkien, served in a rustic setting that feels straight out of the films. Enjoy a delicious spread before bidding farewell to the Shire.
In the afternoon, relax on your return journey to Auckland, where you will have the rest of the day to explore how you choose.
voco Auckland -
Step aboard the Northern Explorer for an unforgettable rail journey through the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. Departing from Auckland, settle into your comfortable seat and watch as the cityscape gives way to rolling farmland, lush forests, and volcanic landscapes.
Travel through the Waikato region, passing the mighty Waikato River and the iconic Raurimu Spiral, an engineering marvel. Gaze out at the dramatic peaks of Tongariro National Park, home to three active volcanoes, before descending through the rugged gorges and river valleys of the Rangitīkei region.
Enjoy the open-air viewing carriage for uninterrupted views and take advantage of the onboard café for a bite to eat as the landscapes shift from volcanic plateaus to the coastal plains of Wellington. Arrive in the capital city by evening, ready to explore its vibrant culture, waterfront charm, and thriving culinary scene.
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor -
Begin the day with a ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton, sailing through the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Relax on board the Interislander as you glide across the Cook Strait, taking in breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and serene waterways. Keep an eye out for dolphins and seabirds as you approach the South Island.
Upon arrival in Picton, board the Coastal Pacific train for a spectacular rail journey along the eastern coastline. Travel past rolling vineyards, dramatic seascapes, and the towering peaks of the Kaikōura Ranges. Enjoy panoramic views from the large windows or step into the open-air viewing carriage for fresh sea air and uninterrupted scenery.
Arrive in Kaikōura in the afternoon, where the mountains meet the sea. Settle in and enjoy the evening at leisure, perhaps sampling the town’s famous seafood or taking a stroll along the waterfront.
Sudima Hotel Kaikoura -
Start the day with an unforgettable whale-watching experience in Kaikōura, a place renowned for its rich marine life. Head out on the water for the chance to spot majestic sperm whales, playful dolphins, and fur seals against the stunning backdrop of the Kaikōura Ranges. Your expert guides will share fascinating insights into these incredible creatures and the unique underwater canyon that makes Kaikōura a marine paradise.
After your morning at sea, board the Coastal Pacific train and continue your journey south towards Christchurch. Travel along the rugged coastline, where the tracks run parallel to the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking views of rolling surf and black sand beaches. Pass through charming rural landscapes, vineyards, and braided rivers as the Canterbury Plains open up before you.
Arrive in Christchurch in the evening, ready to unwind after a day of scenic wonders and incredible wildlife encounters.
Distinction Christchurch Hotel -
Explore Christchurch at your own pace, whether it’s wandering the Botanic Gardens, riding the historic tram, or punting on the Avon River. Visit the Canterbury Museum or Christchurch Art Gallery, or head to the Port Hills for panoramic views. Enjoy local flavours at Riverside Market before relaxing in the Garden City.
Distinction Christchurch Hotel -
Board the iconic TranzAlpine train for one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Travel across the Canterbury Plains, through lush beech forests, and alongside the soaring Southern Alps. Enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, river valleys, and rugged landscapes as you make your way to Greymouth.
Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to Franz Josef, a charming village nestled beneath the towering Franz Josef Glacier. Settle in and enjoy the evening at leisure, perhaps taking a walk around the village or relaxing in anticipation of the adventure that awaits tomorrow.
Te Waonui Forest Retreat -
Sit back and relax on a scenic drive today as you’re transferred from Franz Josef to Queenstown. Once you arrive, the rest of the day is yours to explore the adventure capital of the world at your own pace.
Scenic Suites Queenstown -
Start your morning with a guided tour showcasing the best of Queenstown and its stunning surroundings. Visit iconic scenic lookouts for breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, then explore the charming streets of Arrowtown, rich in gold rush history. Enjoy a visit to a renowned local winery, where you can sample award-winning wines while soaking in the picturesque vineyard landscapes. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating stories about the region’s heritage and culture. By midday, you’ll return to Queenstown, where the rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace—whether that’s indulging in lakeside dining, seeking out more adventure, or simply soaking in the views.
Scenic Suites Queenstown -
Set off early for a breathtaking journey to Milford Sound, travelling through the stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park. Sit back and take in the ever-changing scenery as your coach winds past towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush rainforest. Along the way, stop at iconic viewpoints like Mirror Lakes and the Chasm, where you may even spot some cheeky keas, New Zealand’s famously curious alpine parrots.
On arrival at Milford Sound, board a scenic cruise and glide through the fiord’s deep waters, dwarfed by sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Watch as Stirling and Bowen Falls plunge dramatically from the heights above, and keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks, dolphins playing in the waves, and, if you’re lucky, a Fiordland crested penguin. After the cruise, sit back and enjoy the drive back to Queenstown, arriving in the evening.
Scenic Suites Queenstown -
This morning, board a comfortable coach for a scenic journey from Queenstown to Dunedin. Travel through the rolling countryside of Central Otago, passing rugged landscapes, charming small towns, and historic gold mining regions along the way. Sit back, relax, and take in the views as you make your way towards the coastal city. Upon arrival in Dunedin, the rest of the day is yours to explore—wander the historic streets, visit local attractions, or simply unwind at a café and soak in the city’s unique character.
Scenic Hotel Dunedin City -
Spend the day discovering the best of Dunedin, from its rich history to its incredible wildlife. Begin with a guided exploration of the city, visiting key landmarks and learning about its Scottish heritage. Along the way, enjoy tastings of locally crafted food and drink, sampling some of the flavours that make Dunedin unique.
In the afternoon, head to the Otago Peninsula for a wildlife cruise along the rugged coastline. Keep your eyes peeled for albatross soaring overhead, playful fur seals lounging on the rocks, and, if you’re lucky, rare, yellow-eyed penguins along the shore. As you glide through the waters, take in the stunning views before returning to the city in the evening.
Scenic Hotel Dunedin City -
This morning, board a coach for your journey from Dunedin to Christchurch, travelling through the scenic landscapes of Otago and Canterbury. Pass rolling farmland, coastal plains, and charming rural towns as you make your way north. Arriving in Christchurch at 1:30 pm, the rest of the afternoon is yours to explore—take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens, visit the Riverside Market, or check out the city’s museums and street art—or simply relax before your trip comes to an end.
Distinction Christchurch Hotel -
Squeeze in some final sightseeing this morning before you’re transferred to Christchurch Airport to catch your flight and head off on your next adventure.
Terms and Conditions
Back to topPackage 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 02 Oct 25 – 14 Mar 26. Flights are not included. 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.
Resources
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Great Rail Journeys of New Zealand
Discover a collection of our most popular Independent Rail Holidays and Guided Rail Tours.