Journeys of New Zealand Great Rail
A unique view of New Zealand’s famous scenery
Great Rail Journeys of New Zealand
4 Northern Explorer
5 Coastal Pacific
6 TranzAlpine
Independent Rail Holidays
8 NZ Rail Experience
9 Grand Rail Explorer
10 Northern Explorer
11 Southern Tracks
Guided Rail Tours
13 Signature New Zealand Up Close Tour
14 Signature Flavours of Aotearoa
15 Short Signature Tours
16 Classic New Zealand Highlights Tour
17 Short Classic Tours
18 Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer
20 Terms & Conditions
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Great Rail Journeys of New Zealand
Northern Explorer
Auckland to Wellington (or reverse)
Travel through the heart of New Zealand’s North Island on this epic 681km journey between Auckland and Wellington. Whether you start from the north or the south, you’ll experience a diverse and ever-changing landscape, from quaint towns and rural farmland to lush forest and mountain ranges.
Coastal Pacific
Picton to Christchurch (or reverse)
Glide along the edge of land and sea on the South Island’s East Coast between Picton and Christchurch. This is where two worlds collide, where the surging Pacific Ocean meets rugged coastlines and mighty mountain ranges, where sea life feels so close you could almost touch it, and where the scenery is both picturesque and breathtaking.
TranzAlpine
Christchurch to Greymouth (or reverse)
Experience one of the world’s great train journeys on this epic voyage between Christchurch and Greymouth.
Soar from coast to coast through vast plains, mighty mountain ranges, lush native beech forests, and striking western coastlines.
Interislander
Wellington to Picton or (or reverse)
The Cook Strait ferry crossing is 93 kilometers (58 miles) and takes three-and-a-half hours. The journey is a scenic spectacle, with the ferry looping around Wellington Harbour and drifting through the fjord-like channels and inlets of the Marlborough Sounds.
Scenic Plus
The Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making the scenic train journey relaxing and memorable. You can take in the epic scenery while savouring regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer all from the comfort of your seat – a hosted dining experience like no other.
Scenic Plus Features:
• Personalised service from dedicated hosts including live commentary
• A selection of beverages included to complement your meal
• Dedicated Scenic Plus carriage
• Outdoor viewing carriage
Northern Explorer Rail Journey
Explore the rural heart of New Zealand’s North Island on this epic 681km journey from Auckland to Wellington.
The Northern Explorer train connects multi-cultural Auckland with the bustling capital, Wellington. With unique blends of international prestige and local culture, both are excellent places to start or finish your adventure.
Highlights
• Soar over rivers and towering viaducts
• See the high plains of the volcanic plateau
• Meander alongside the white cliffs of Rangitīkei
• See Mount Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe
• Traverse the beautiful Rangitīkei River Gorge
• Cruise along the Kapiti Coast
Timetable
Coastal Pacific Rail Journey
Experience one of the most picturesque journeys in New Zealand as meander along the Pacific coast between Picton and Christchurch.
The Coastal Pacific train takes you along rugged coastlines, across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty. Experience this unforgettable journey by traveling from Christchurch to Picton or vice versa.
Highlights
• Explore the stunning Kaikōura Coastline
• Voyage through the vineyards of Blenheim
• See the salt flats of Lake Grassmere
• Cross the wide rivers of Canterbury
• Unobstructed views of the Coast from the open-air viewing carriage
Timetable
TranzAlpine Rail Journey
Explore the Southern Alps aboard the TranzAlpine train - one of the world’s great train journeys, covering 223 kilometres (139 miles) one-way and taking just under 5 hours. The TranzAlpine train travels coast-tocoast through the ‘Great Divide’ and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand’s South Island. Book a journey like no other by travelling in either direction from Christchurch to Greymouth, or Greymouth to Christchurch.
Highlights
• Cross the Southern Alps by scenic train
• Elegant peaks and enchanting plains
• The lush green valleys of Otira
• Patchwork Canterbury Plains
Timetable
• Scenic Springfield
• Mount Binser
• Lake Sarah
• Waimakariri River
• Moana & Lake Brunner
Looking for a holiday that makes incorporating a Great Rail Journey into your independent New Zealand tinerary easy? Choose one of our Self-Guided Rail Packages. All self-guided rail packages featured can be customised by contacting our expert Reservations Team.
NZ Rail Experience
Perfect for those travellers short on time, experience all three of New Zealand’s Great Train Journeys on this 7 day itinerary from Auckland to Christchurch. Step aboard the historic Northern Explorer, cruise the Cook Strait from Wellington to Picton, traverse the rugged coastline on the Coastal Pacific before completing your Rail Experience with a return voyage onboard the iconic TranzAlpine which departs Christchurch for Greymouth.
Inclusions
• 6 Nights in Superior Accommodation (3.5/4 star)
• Northern Explorer Scenic Train from Auckland to Wellington
• Interislander Ferry from Wellington to Picton
• Coastal Pacific Scenic Train from Picton to Christchurch
• TranzAlpine Scenic Train from Christchurch to Greymouth (return)
03
12 Day
Grand Rail Explorer
This once-in-a-lifetime rail holiday in will combine three of New Zealand’s great train journeys with five days of driving the untamed West Coast from Queenstown, home to giant glaciers, waterfalls & blowholes.
Inclusions
• 11 Nights of Superior (3.5/4 star) or Luxury (5 star) Accommodation
• 5 days car hire from Queenstown to Greymouth
• Premium car hire insurance with a nil excess
• Small Group Milford Sound Coach & Cruise with Lunch
• Explore the Glacier Country in Franz Josef
• TranzAlpine Scenic Train Journey*
• Coastal Pacific Scenic Train Journey*
• Interislander Ferry from Picton to Wellington*
• Northern Explorer Scenic Train Journey*
• Shuttle Transfers in Christchurch, Wellington & Auckland
*Luxury Package includes Scenic Plus on train journeys & Premium Lounge on ferry journey
Travel Seasons & Pricing Package must start on set departure dates
2025: 01 Sep, 08 Sep & 15 Sep From
2025: 22 Sep, 29 Sep, 06 Oct, 13 Oct, 20 Oct, 27 Oct, 03 Nov, 10 Nov, 17 Nov, 24 Nov, 01 Dec, 08 Dec 2026: 05 Jan, 12 Jan, 19 Jan
2026: 26 Jan, 02 Feb, 09 Feb, 16 Feb, 23 Feb, 02 Mar, 09 Mar, 16 Mar From
10 Day Northern Showcase
Explore the North Island’s spectacular and diverse landscape as you venture through the heart of New Zealand. Climb aboard the historic Northern Explorer train and journey from the glittering skyline of Auckland to the quaint capital of Wellington. Experience volcanic peaks, fertile farmlands and geothermal magic over the next 10 days.
Inclusions
• 9 Nights in Superior Accommodation (3.5/4 star)
• Northern Explorer Scenic Train from Auckland to Wellington
• 7 Days Car Hire from Wellington to Auckland
• Premium Car Hire Insurance with nil excess
• The Silky Oak Chocolate Dipper Tour Napier
• Explore New Zealand's Lagest Lake - Lake Tāupo
• Entry to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland Rotorua
• 2.5 Hour Hobbiton Movie Set Tour ex Shires Rest
Travel Seasons & Pricing
03 May 2025 – 25 Jun 2025 From $2,195*pp
27 Jun 2025 – 30 Sep 2025 From $2,329*pp
01 Oct 2025 – 28 Jan 2026 From $2,525*pp
01 Feb 2026 – 31 Mar 2026 From $2,759*pp
Northern Explorer approaching Mt Ruapehu
10 Day
Southern Tracks
Welcome to the Top of the South, a collection of regions that showcase the South Island’s much-loved landscape and offers a unique connection with locals from farmers to winemakers. Experience two of New Zealand’s Great Train Journeys on this exciting 10 day itinerary that combines the comfort of rail travel with the freedom of driving.
Inclusions
• 9 Nights in Superior Accommodation (3.5-4 star)
• Coastal Pacific Scenic Train from Christchurch to Blenheim (Marlborough)
• Explore the iconic vineyards of the Marlborough Wine Region
• 6 Days Car Hire from Blenheim to Greymouth
• Premium Car Hire Insurance with nil excess
• Explore the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park
• TranzAlpine Scenic Train from Greymouth to Christchurch
Travel Seasons & Pricing
01 Sep 2025 – 22 Sep 2025
From $2,009*pp
23 Sep 2025 – 27 Oct 2025 From $2,279*pp
28 Oct 2025 – 22 Dec 2025 From $2,379*pp
01 Jan 2026 – 31 Mar 2026 From $2,499*pp
Package Code: ANZ2510DST
Guided
Rail Packages
Transverse through the heart of New Zealand on a selection of Guided Rail Tours. Visiting world-famous destinations and idyllic locations on a voyage of discovery, you will weave through New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes with like minded travellers as part of an escorted tour group.
Your Tour Director will lead you beyond the well-beaten paths and highways, you will be immersed in authentic New Zealand culture and experiences.
Guided Tours include all of the touring essentials, and with Great Journeys New Zealand you have the choice of a Classic style or a more premium Signature style.
17 Day
Signature
New Zealand Up Close
Discover off the beaten track locations and bustling urban centres by three world-famous scenic rai experiences. Be led by a local as you experience thrilling activities on this scenic adventure of a lifetime.
Inclusions
• 16 Nights Accommodation (4-5 star)
• 16 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches & 7 Dinners
• Private Transport with Experienced Tour Director
• Group with max. 20 guests
• Northern Explorer Scenic Plus Dining Experience
• Interislander Ferry Crossing in Premium Lounge
• Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus Dining Experience
• TranzAlpine Scenic Plus Dining Experience
• Hamilton Gardens Guided Tour & Picnic
• Raglan Dinner Cruise
• Sanctuary Mountain Wildlife Experience
• Glowworm Caves Tour in Hamilton
• Marlborough Wine Tour Experience
• Wildlife Experience ex KaikŌura
• Christchurch Historic Tramway Hop-on Hop-off Service
• Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes Walk
• West Coast Tree Top Walk & Haast River Safari
• Milford Sound Day Tour & Cruise
• Cruise Lake Wakatipu on TSS Earnslaw Steamship
Scan QR Code on the Contents Page to view eBrochure with daily itineraries.
Travel Seasons & Pricing
Departs Select Wednesdays
03 September 2025 – 15 April 2026
From $15,049*pp
18 Day
Signature
Flavours of Aotearoa
Embark on a mouthwatering rail journey through New Zealand’s diverse culinary landscape. From the delicate flavours to the depth of heritage in unique destinations, come aboard to explore New Zealand through its food, wine, and culture.
Inclusions
• 17 Nights of Signature Accommodation (4-5 star)
• 17 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches & 9 Dinners
• Private Transport with Experienced Tour Director
• Private Shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
• Group with max. 20 guests
• Northern Explorer Scenic Plus Dining Experience
• Interislander Ferry Crossing in Premium Lounge
• Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus Dining Experience
• TranzAlpine Scenic Plus Dining Experience
• Waiheke Wine & Dine Tour
Travel Seasons & Pricing
Departs Select Sundays
16 March 2025 - 22 March 2026
• Zealong Tea Estate Tour, Tea Ceremony & Signature High Tea
• Hamilton Gardens Guided Tour
• Lunch at Lauren’s Lavender
• Te Papa Kanaki Māori Tour
• Marlborough Sounds Mailboat Cruise
• Pāua Pearl Tour and Tasting
• Marlborough Wine Tour & Lunch
• Kaikōura Dolphin Encounter
• Christchurch Food Walking Tour
• Guided Pounamu Experience including Hokitika Gorge Walk
• Ōkārito Eco-heritage Tour
• Haast River Safari River Boat Cruise
• Ayrburn Winery Tastings & Lunch
From $16,335*pp
Tranzalpine
6 Day Signature
Captivating Coast
Join this thrilling 6 day guided tour along New Zealand’s spectacular Pacific coastlines from Wellington to Christchurch. Witness coastal beaches, epic marine life, mountain valleys and vineyards.
• 5 Nights of Signature Accommodation (4-5 star)
• Glide along untouched coastline by scenic train
• Cruise alongside magnificent views while crossing the Cook Strait
• Sip world-class wine among the vines in Marlborough
• Whales, dolphins, and sea life –spend a day by the ocean in Kaikōura
• Explore Christchurch by foot and aboard the historic tramcars.
Travel Seasons & Pricing
Departs Select Tuesdays
09 Sep 25 – 21 Apr 26 From $4,950*pp
7 Day Signature
Inspirational Alps
Join this unforgettable 7 day journey through the South Island. Travel off the beaten track as you are guided on this scenic adventure of a lifetime from Christchurch to Queenstown.
• 6 Nights of Signature Accommodation (4-5 star)
• Experience the Southern Alps on the TranzAlpine train journey
• Uncover the home of the sacred pounamu, blue lakes, and ancient forests on the West Coast
• Discover the south-Westland Wilderness by river boat and coach with Haast River Safari.
• Explore the Milford Sound aboard a scenic cruise
• Admire the sparkling Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw ship
Travel Seasons & Pricing
Departs Select Saturdays
13 Sep 25 - 18 Apr 26 From $6,335*pp
8 Day Signature
Inspiring North Island
Experience this 8 day guided tour through the North Island from Auckland to Wellington and explore volcanic geological peaks, burbling rivers and New Zealand’s idyllic natural landscapes.
• 7 Nights of Signature Accommodation (4-5 star)
• Experience the Volcanic Plateau on the Northern Explorer train
• Escape to the bioluminescent glowworm caves of Waitomo
• Witness the engineering marvels of Raurimu Spiral and encounter the volcanic peaks of Middle Earth in Tongariro National Park
• Discover the sandstone cliffs of the Rangitīkei River Gorge.
• Marvel at the mesmerising coastal views of the Kāpiti Coast.
Travel
Seasons & Pricing
Departs Select Wednesdays
03 Sep 25 – 15 Apr 26 From $6,335*pp
Northern Explorer
15 Day
New Zealand Highlights
Join this 15 day guided tour and see the highlights as you traverse through the heart and soul of New Zealand. Discover off the beaten track locations and bustling urban centres by three world-famous scenic rail experiences.
Inclusions
• 14 nights of classic accommodation (3-4 star)
• 14 breakfasts & 4 dinners
• Experienced Tour Director
• Private Transport by Coach & Shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
• Group with a max 35 guests
• Northern Explorer Scenic Train
• Cook Strait Ferry from Wellington to Picton
• Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
• TranzAlpine Scenic Train
• Encounter the volcanic peaks of middle earth
• Te Papa Museum Introduction Tour
• Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk
• West Coast Tree Top Walk
Scan QR Code on the Contents Page to view eBrochure with daily itineraries.
Travel Seasons & Pricing
Departs Select Fridays
12 September 2025 - 26 March 2026 From
TranzAlpine
6 Day Classic
Coastal Highlights
Join this 6 day guided tour from Wellington to Christchurch. Cruise across the Cook Strait, along coastal beaches and through tunnels to mountain valleys.
• 5 nights of classic accommodation (3-4 star)
• Sail across the scenic Cook Strait
• Glide along untouched coastline in comfort aboard the Coastal Pacific
• Experience the thrill of the open air viewing carriage as you search for fur seals, whales, dolphins and sea lifespend a day by the ocean in Kaikōura
• Ride on the city tram to uncover Christchurch’s history & gardens
• Be captivated by the storytelling of your Tour Director throughout your great journey
Travel Seasons & Pricing
Departs Select Tuesdays
16 Sep 25 - 31 Mar 26 From $3,365*pp
6 Day Classic
Northern Highlights
Enjoy this 6 day guided tour of New Zealand’s North Island. Passing volcanic peaks, rolling hills, engineering marvels and sparkling coastlines.
• 5 nights of classic accommodation (3-4 star)
• Experience the Volcanic Plateau by world-renowned Northern Explorer train journey
• Encounter the volcanic peaks of Middle Earth in Tongariro National Park Witness the engineering marvels of the Raurimu Spiral
• Marvel at the mesmerising coastal views of the Kāpiti Coast.
• Discover the sandstone cliffs of the Rangitīkei River Gorge
• Introduction Tour at Te Papa Museum
Travel Seasons & Pricing Departs Select Fridays
-
7 Day
Classic
Alpine Highlights
Join this 7 day guided tour through the mighty Southern Alps, to the wild West Coast before experiencing the beauty of Queenstown.
• 6 nights of classic accommodation (3-4 star)
• Experience the Southern Alps by world renowned TranzAlpine train journey
• Uncover the home of the sacred pounamu, mesmerising blue lakes, and ancient forests on the West Coast
• Discover Haast Pass on a unique Kiwi-style Road Trip adventure
• Explore city life in Christchurch and Queenstown
• Visit the historic goldmining village of Arrowtown
Travel Seasons & Pricing Departs Select Saturdays
20 Sep 25 - 04 Apr 26 From $4,950*pp
Tranzalpine
Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer
The Big 5 adventures of the South Island
Inspired by one of the greatest and most iconic adventurers of our time, The Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer invites you on an epic journey by rail and luxury coach throughout the majestic South Island of Aotearoa.
1. TranzAlpine
Your guided journey begins in The Garden City, Christchurch, where you board one of the world’s great train journeys, The TranzAlpine and traverse the majestic Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass.
2. Kingston Flyer
Then track inland to experience the wonders of Queenstown, Te Anau and Milford Sound. Cruise on the steamship TSS Earnslaw and ride the iconic steam train, The Kingston Flyer, the icing on the cake for railfans and historians.
3. Rogers K92
A special journey is made to Waimea Plains Railway, which is home of the historic Rogers K92 Steam Locomotive. Built in 1878 in New Jersey, USA, the Rogers Locomotive arrived in New Zealand the following year and was deployed into passenger service as the original “Kingston Flyer.”
4. Dunedin Railways
Onward to Dunedin where we enjoy another iconic rail journey with Dunedin Railways through the remote and rugged landscape of the world-famous Taieri Gorge, an epic rail journey over white water rapids, towering viaducts and historic tunnels.
5. Coastal Pacific
Back to Christchurch to join The Coastal Pacific Scenic Train, one of the most picturesque journeys on New Zealand’s railways. Throughout this scenic experience, you will meander along the Pacific coast across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty to Kaikōura and then onto Marlborough the following day.
13 Day
Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer
Inspired by one of the greatest and most iconic adventurers of our time, The Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer invites you on an epic journey by rail and luxury coach throughout the majestic South Island of Aotearoa.
Inclusions
• 12 Nights Accommodation (4-5 star)
• 12 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches & 9 Dinners
• Luxury Coach with Experienced Tour Director
• TranzAlpine Train Journey
• Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak
• Arrowtown Lakes District Museum
• Kingston Flyer Historic Train Excursion
• Milford Sound Day Trip & Cruise
• Takahe Sanctuary
• Croydon Aviation Museum
• Waimea Plains Railway (Rogers K92)
• Taieri Gorge Train Journey
• Dunedin Railways Train Journey to Oamaru
• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, Mt Cook
• International Antactic Centre OR Tram Trip
• Coastal Pacific Train Journey (two days)
• Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
• Cruise on the Interislander Ferry
Scan QR Code on the Contents Page to view eBrochure with daily itineraries.
Travel Seasons & Pricing
Departs Select Tuesdays
30 September 2025 - 14 April 2026 From $8,495*pp
Terms & Conditions
VALIDITY
This document is valid for sale from July 2025 and valid for travel from Sep 2024 to Apr 2026 unless otherwise stated. All details in this brochure reflect information available to ANZCRO at the time of printing (August 2024). ANZCRO reserves the right to amend any details without notice. Ask your Travel Agent to confirm the details at the time of booking.
For complete Terms & Conditions, please refer to: https://www.anzcro.com.au/terms-and-conditions
PRICING
All pricing featured is per person and is expressed in Australian Dollars. All pricing include New Zealand GST. ANZCRO reserves the right to amend without notice.
CAR HIRE
Where car hire is included in mentioned packages, this includes collection from airports with premium insurance
and nil excess. Where car hire is not returned to the same location, a one way fee of NZD$150 is to be paid direct. During winter (May-Sep), snow chains are mandatory and a local snow chain fee must be paid direct to the car hire supplier at the time of vehicle collection. This fee is not included or covered by ANZCRO and is subject to car hire supplier conditions and policies.
TRAIN TRAVEL
All train times and schedules listed are subject to change based on track maintenance, weather conditions and operation capabilities. All seats onboard the train journeys are based on Scenic Class. Scenic Plus is available on all train services and is subject to availability at the time of booking.
GUIDED RAIL TOURS
All Guided Rail Tours featured are operated by Great Journeys New Zealand and Pounamu Tourism Group and subject to their conditions including itinerary changes, operation capabilities and track maintenance.
For complete day by day itineraries, please contact ANZCRO who can supplier details of this at time of enquiry.
Great Journeys New Zealand require a non-refundable deposit of 20% at time of booking, with final balance due 70 days prior to departure date. Pounamu Tourism Group require a 20% deposit at time of booking. An additional 40% is due six months prior to tour departure, anf final balance is due the month before tour departs.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
ANZCRO strongly recommends that you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy at thetime of booking. Your Travel Agent will be able to advise and assist you with this. Cancellation fees charged by ANZCRO will not be waived under any circumstances, where travel insurance may have covered you.
Your Travel Agent:
ANZCRO Australia P.O. Box 1291, Southport, QLD 4215, Australia
Tel: (07) 5556 5556 Fax: (07) 5591 5636
anzcro@anzcro.com.au