Highlights of New Zealand’s Scenic Train Rides
1. New Rail Adventures
The wonders of New Zealand require a visitor’s full attention, so why not give your eyes a treat and roll through the country on a scenic train ride? Great Journeys New Zealand offers a fresh collection of multiday, guided rail tours that sweep across spectacular landscapes on both North and South islands.
The just-launched rail adventures feature three existing train lines paired with a variety of guided tour itineraries, ranging from six to 17 days. These adventures take guests on off-rail excursions in search of authentic Kiwi experiences. The Northern Explorer train starts in Auckland and runs just over 400 miles south to Wellington. Along the way, tours bring guests to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Tongariro National Park, showcasing towering Mount Ruapehu. After crossing the 58-mile Cook Strait aboard the Interislander ferry, travelers can transfer to the Coastal Pacific train at Picton, passing through Blenheim’s vineyards and coastal areas renowned for whale sightings on the way to Christchurch. Finally, the TranzAlpine train traverses the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps between Christchurch and Greymouth.
2. Scenic Routes and Landscapes
“Great Journeys New Zealand encompasses some of the country’s most stunning and diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and lush forests to rugged coastlines and sparkling oceans,” shares Mark Hockley, senior tour manager and partnership specialist. With panoramic views unobtainable via road, the tranquil train ride allows travelers to immerse fully in the natural beauty of New Zealand.
Tour guides provide local insights, sharing stories from Kiwiana culture to facts about New Zealand’s unique birdlife, history of Māori culture, geology in volcanic regions, and various notable locations. An audio commentary system, activated by GPS, offers additional insights as the train travels along. “The views from the volcanic peaks of Middle Earth to the mystical Blue Lake in the Southern Alps are breathtaking. Additionally, we visit local shops and meet sheep farmers and winemakers, discovering their stories along the way,” he explains.
Māori storytelling is an integral part of every trip, embedding cultural experiences such as visits to Māori villages and tasting Māori foods, enriching travelers’ understanding of New Zealand’s unique heritage.
3. Tour Options and Dining
Scenic Class carriages boast panoramic windows and spacious seating, ensuring a comfortable journey. Open carriages offer fresh-air viewing and excellent photography opportunities. Onboard, the Scenic Cafe features selections of local wines and beers, as well as dishes crafted from regional ingredients, including roasted chicken with Manuka honey and hot-smoked salmon salad. From April 14, Great Journeys will introduce Scenic Plus service, featuring a new custom-built carriage and dedicated chef.
Tours operate on select dates from January through early May, offering travelers a choice between Classic (six to 15 days, up to 35 guests) or Signature (six to 17 days, up to 20 guests) tours, inviting an intimate exploration of New Zealand’s magical landscapes.
