New Zealand · TRAIN EXPERIENCES
Every trip has one free day too few. These 13 train experiences justify the slot, priced and timed so you can decide in minutes and get back to the fun part of planning.
Northern Explorer from Wellington to Auckland in about 11 hours, with open-air views of Tongariro, GPS audio at every seat, and an onboard café.
“This is a great way to really appreciate the diverse scenery and landscape of New Zealand. The trip was comfortable and the explanations of the sights great.”
TranzAlpine train to Arthur’s Pass with easy walks, Otira Viaduct views, Castle Hill time, and hotel pickup, plus snacks and WiFi.
“Great day out. Our guide was really helpful and knowledgeable. He did a great job explaining about the train journey and Arthur's Pass national park.”
One-way Coastal Pacific train from Picton to Christchurch with GPS audio, Pacific and Kaikoura views, plus a cafe for snacks.
“Lovely train trip along the east coast of the South Island. Very scenic - great to see the seals. Comfortable journey.”
Ride the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth for a half day of Southern Alps scenery, comfy seats, and GPS audio in a licensed cafe car.
“What an amazing experience !! Worked like clock work 😊 with easy to board, staff were great! We did the lunch and train ride and were fortunate enough to have a lovely UK couple share the table we were on. The food was fantastic!! We Read more”
Ride the TranzAlpine to Arthur’s Pass, then tour Southern Alps highlights by minivan with guided walks, tea, and lunch from Christchurch.
“Wonderful tour. The tour was outstanding, we had great tour guides for the duration and was a very enjoyable day. There was an issue with the train but the tour guides took care of everything immediately and ensured we enjoyed our tour. Beautiful country side and the scenery was amazing.”
Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass by TranzAlpine train, then alpine walks and big photo stops at Lake Pearson and Castle Hill.
“Everything was great - it was more the weather which no one can change. Anuj was amazing - thumbs up for his excellent customer service!!”
Ride the Northern Explorer from Auckland to Wellington for green farmland, Tongariro volcano views, and the Raurimu Spiral, with GPS audio.
“It was an excellent trip although it was a long journey it turned out a really great trip, with lots of foods and varieties of meals all the way through the end of our journey. It was worth it! Tia was an excellent staff.”
Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass by TranzAlpine train, then scenic road stops and a working sheep farm, with transfers and optional tea included.
“Fantastic day. Informative guide, Jude, and spectacular scenery. Lots of photo opportunities. Snow in late September”
A one-way TranzAlpine ride from Greymouth to Christchurch through Arthur’s Pass, with open decks, reserved seats, and GPS audio.
“DO NOT BOOK There is no coast-to-coast train. It is shutdown and they force you onto to a shuttle bus for the western half 3-5 hours late, with no notice or communication besides an email 30 minutes before the listed departure. This is a sub-standard service using bait & switch.”
Ride the historic Taieri Gorge Railway from Dunedin to Pukerangi. 5 hours of bridges, tunnels, café treats, and expert stories.
“This was a wonderful journey and our storyteller was amazing. The scenery was breathtaking and the stories were very interesting. Highly recommend doing this experience”
From Christchurch, ride TranzAlpine to Greymouth, then tour Hokitika and Hokitika Gorge on a guided road trip to Franz Josef.
“The experience includes pick-up and the iconic scenic train ride across the famous Arthur’s Pass, followed by a guided journey along the West Coast all the way to Franz Josef. Willehm was fantastic from the very beginning of the tour until our arrival in the mountain town. All the stops along the way were beautiful and well chosen. Lunch was included, along with snacks and water — everything was perfectly organized! Highly recommended.”
The Seasider train from Dunedin to Otago's coast, through Mihiwaka Tunnel, with live commentary and stunning ocean views. Arc Brewery option.
“Jaw dropping scenery, great commentary, well stocked buffet car and comfortable cabin. A must do excursion. The scenery is spectacular and I found myself thinking I could just stay on the train and let the world go by. Highly recommend.”
Mercedes day trip from Queenstown to Dunedin, Central Otago gold towns, Dunstan House tea stop, and the Taieri Gorge Train one-way ride.
From the fiords to the geothermal belt, sorted by what you want to do with the day.
