Experience some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery on this unforgettable 12 day rail journey featuring the iconic Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific, TranzAlpine and Taieri Gorge Railway. From dramatic coastlines and alpine passes to charming towns, wildlife encounters and unique sightseeing, this escorted holiday showcases the very best of New Zealand by rail.
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THURS 11 MAR - AUCKLAND/WELLINGTON
This morning we board the iconic Northern Explorer train for one of New Zealand’s great rail journeys. Departing Auckland at 7.45am, we travel through the ever changing landscapes of our North Island, passing rolling farmland, volcanic plateaus, native bush and dramatic river gorges on this unforgettable 681 kilometre journey to Wellington. The day is yours to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenic beauty from the comfort of your carriage. Arriving into Wellington at 6.25pm, we transfer to our hotel and settle in for a three night stay. This evening enjoy dinner together. Stay Naumi Hotel, 3 nights. Included: D
FRI 12 MAR - WELLINGTON
This morning we visit New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa, where we enjoy a private guided tour of the remarkable Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War exhibition. Created in collaboration with Wētā Workshop, this powerful exhibition brings to life the stories of Gallipoli through larger-than-life figures, personal stories and immersive displays. Following our visit, enjoy a free afternoon to explore Wellington at your own pace. Perhaps stroll the waterfront, browse boutique shops or stop by Parliament buildings. This evening we dine together at the popular Ombra Restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious Venetian inspired cuisine. Included: B, D
SAT 13 MAR – DAY TRIP TO SOUTH WAIRARAPA
Today we enjoy a scenic day excursion into the beautiful Wairarapa region, travelling over the Remutaka Ranges and through picturesque countryside dotted with vineyards, boutique towns and rolling farmland. Our first stop is the Remutaka Hill summit, sitting 555 metres above sea level, where we pause to admire the sweeping views and visit the Remutaka Crossing Monument. This memorial commemorates the 60,000 New Zealand troops who crossed the ranges from Featherston to Wellington during World War One. We continue onto charming Greytown, where we will enjoy free time to browse the many boutique shops, cafés and beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. Later, we visit popular Tirohana Estate in Martinborough, where we enjoy lunch surrounded by the region’s renowned vineyards and relaxed country atmosphere. This afternoon there is time to wander Martinborough Village before returning to Wellington, arriving back at the hotel approximately 4.00pm. This evening is free for you to enjoy dinner at leisure. Included: B, L
SUN 14 MAR - WELLINGTON/KAIKOURA
Today we journey from the North Island to the South Island, combining spectacular ferry and rail travel. This morning we board the Interislander ferry departing Wellington at 8.45am. Relax and take in the scenery as we cruise across Cook Strait and through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds before arriving into Picton at 12.15pm. From Picton we oin the Coastal Pacific train service departing at 1.40pm. Widely regarded as one of the world’s great coastal rail journeys, this scenic route hugs the rugged coastline, travelling between mountains and sea with spectacular ocean views along the way. We arrive into Kaikōura at 4.15pm and transfer to our hotel. Dinner is at the hotel this evening. Stay Sudima Hotel Kaikōura, 1 night. Included: B, D
MON 15 MAR – KAIKOURA/CHRISTCHURCH
This morning we experience one of Kaikōura’s most famous attractions with an unforgettable whale watching cruise. Kaikōura is renowned for its rich marine environment and is one of the best places in New Zealand to view giant sperm whales year round, along with dolphins, seals and seabirds. Following the tour there is time to relax before we transfer to the railway station to board the Coastal Pacific train departing at 4.25pm for Christchurch. Sit back and enjoy more spectacular coastal scenery as we travel south. Arriving into Christchurch at 7.30pm, we transfer to our hotel before dinner together this evening. Stay Fable Christchurch, 3 nights. Included: B, D
TUE 16 MAR – CHRISTCHURCH
This morning we take a short stroll to Quake City, Canterbury Museum’s fascinating special exhibition which tells the story of the Canterbury earthquakes and the resilience of the people of Christchurch. Through personal stories, interactive displays and recovered artefacts, gain an insight into one of New Zealand’s most significant natural events. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps explore the rejuvenated central city, enjoy the riverside precinct or relax at one of the many cafés and boutiques nearby. This evening we enjoy a memorable dining experience aboard the famous Tramway Restaurant. Departing at 5.00pm, enjoy dinner as the beautifully restored heritage tram travels through the heart of Christchurch. Included: B, D
WED 17 MAR - CHRISTCHURCH/HOKITIKA
This morning we transfer to Christchurch Airport for our flight to Hokitika on Air New Zealand flight NZ5830 departing at 8.45am, arriving at 9.30am. On arrival we travel to Greymouth, with time to enjoy lunch at Speight’s Ale House before boarding the world famous TranzAlpine train at 2.15pm. Widely regarded as one of the world’s great rail journeys, the TranzAlpine takes us through the spectacular Southern Alps, crossing dramatic viaducts, alpine rivers, deep gorges and breathtaking mountain scenery as we travel from the rugged West Coast back to Christchurch. Enjoy an early dinner onboard before arriving at 7.00pm, where we will return to hotel. Included: B, L, D
THURS 18 MAR - CHRISTCHURCH/ŌAMARU
Departing Christchurch this morning, we travel south through the Canterbury Plains towards the charming heritage town of Ōamaru. Along the way we travel via Ashburton before arriving at the impressive Riverstone Castle, where we enjoy a guided visit and lunch. Set amongst beautifully landscaped gardens, Riverstone Castle is one of North Otago’s most unique attractions. This evening we visit the famous Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony to watch the world’s smallest penguins return ashore after a day fishing at sea. Viewing these delightful little penguins in their natural environment is a truly memorable experience. Stay Brydone Hotel Ōamaru, 1 night. Included: B, L, D
FRI 19 MAR –ŌAMARU/DUNEDIN
Today we continue south to Dunedin, renowned for its rich Scottish heritage, historic architecture and beautiful coastal scenery. Along the way we stop at the Moeraki Boulders Café for morning tea (own expense), with time to view the famous spherical boulders scattered along Koekohe Beach. Upon arrival in Dunedin we visit Olveston Historic Home, one of New Zealand’s finest heritage homes. Step back in time as we explore this beautifully preserved Jacobean style mansion, filled with original furnishings, artwork and stories from a bygone era. Stay Scenic Hotel Southern Cross, 2 nights. Included: B, D
SAT 20 MAR - TAIERI GORGE RAILWAY EXCURSION
Today we experience another of New Zealand’s great rail journeys aboard the famous Taieri Gorge Railway. Departing Dunedin at 9.30am, the train travels through the spectacular and rugged landscapes of the Taieri Gorge, passing soaring viaducts, hand carved tunnels, dramatic river scenery and remote countryside inaccessible by road. Relax and enjoy this unforgettable rail experience before returning to Dunedin at 2.15pm. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure before dinner together this evening. Included: B, D
SUN 21 MAR - DUNEDIN/AUCKLAND
This morning we transfer to Dunedin Airport for our flight to Auckland. Depart Dunedin on Air New Zealand flight NZ676 at 9.25am. Arriving into Auckland at 11.15am, our wonderful New Zealand Rail Experience comes to an end. What an adventure! Included: B
