Great Rail Journeys of New Zealand
A unique view of New Zealand’s famous scenery
Journeys
16 11 Day Explorer 17 14 Day Explorer
18 15 Day Pinnacle Tour
20 12 Day Winter Explorer Guided Rail Tours
Discover New Zealand by Rail
Welcome to an invitation to see New Zealand in an unforgettable way - by train. This country offers some of the world’s most spectacular rail journeys: from snowcapped mountains and glacier-fed rivers, to rugged coastline and tranquil rural landscapes. Sitting aboard these scenic trains, you’re not rushing - you’re savouring the view, the atmosphere, the land rolling by, and the stories hidden in every curve of track.
In this brochure, we guide you through some of New Zealand's most spectacular rail journeys, as well as highlighting two distinct styles of travel, each offering its own piece of Aotearoa magic:
Independent Rail Holidays
Travel at your own pace with pre-planned rail journeys, quality accommodation, and suggested self-drive routes. Enjoy the freedom to explore, linger longer in places you love, and tailor each day to your own interests.
Guided Rail Tours
Relax and let everything be taken care of. With an expert Tour Director, set itinerary, and included experiences, guided tours offer a seamless way to see more and connect with fellow travellers.
Why Choose Rail in New Zealand?
Views you’ll never forget: Access landscapes hard to reach by car.
Authentic pace: Time to savour every moment of the journey.
Comfort & ease: No navigating, just panoramic views and onboard service.
Two islands, many worlds: From volcanic North to glacial South, rail ties it all together.
Discover the Heart of Aotearoa New Zealand
At Great Journeys New Zealand, we offer more than scenic train trips. We specialise in creating unforgettable experiences — with expertly curated packages and fully guided tours designed to showcase the very best of our beautiful country.
As you travel in comfort, enjoy:
Spacious, comfortable seating
Panoramic viewing windows
A licensed onboard café
An open-air viewing carriage
Warm, welcoming staff
ELEVATE YOUR JOURNEY WITH SCENIC PLUS
Step aboard our exclusive, purpose-built Scenic Plus carriage — a premium experience available on the Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific, and TranzAlpine journeys. Enjoy engaging storytelling by our knowledgeable onboard hosts and a paddock-to-plate menu served directly to your seat.
PADDOCK TO PLATE
Enjoy a bespoke menu on each journey inspired by local flavours and landscapes.
DESIGNS
Marvel at the details onboard - like the “eye of the bird”a guardian for our Manuhiri (guests) as they travel.
PREMIUM SERVICE
Be welcomed by friendly hosts and engaging stories that enrich your journey.
DINING SEATING
Relax in upgraded seating designed to spark conversation and connection.
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
Coastal Pacific Rail Journey
Experience one of the most picturesque journeys in New Zealand as you 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 travelling 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
Taieri Gorge Rail Journey
Experience a stunning journey through the Taieri Gorge, crossing the historic viaducts and riding through tunnels while discovering Otago's history.
Sit back, relax and experience breathtaking scenery of rural New Zealand and the Taieri Gorge (most of which is only accessible by train).
Highlights
• Travel deep into rugged landscapes, with remote scenery only accessible by train
• Cross towering viaducts and pass through 19th-century tunnels
• Learn about the rich history of Otago’s railways from an onboard storyteller
• Enjoy the journey in vintage-style carriages
Timetable
Looking for a holiday that makes incorporating a Great Rail Journey into your independent New Zealand Itinerary easy? Choose one of our Self-Guided Rail Packages. All self-guided rail packages featured can be customised by contacting our expert Reservations Team.
12 Day
Grand Rail Explorer
This once-in-a-lifetime rail holiday 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
15 Day
Grand Rail Adventure
Our Extended Grand Rail Adventure takes our signature Rail Explorer and makes it even richer. From Auckland to the deep south, enjoy added experiences in Dunedin and Te Anau. With showstoppers like the Taieri Gorge Scenic Rail, it’s New Zealand by train at its most unforgettable.
Inclusions
• 14 nights of Superior Accommodation (3.5/4 star)
• 8 days car hire from Christchurch to Greymouth
• Premium car hire insurance with nil excess
• Northern Explorer Scenic Train Auckland to Wellington
• Interislander Ferry from Wellington to Picton
• Coastal Pacific Scenic Train from Picton to Christchurch
• Taieri Gorge Return Scenic Rail with Dunedin Railways
• Southern Discoveries Milford Sound Cruise
• Transfers in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch
Travel Seasons & Pricing
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)
01 Sep 2026 - 24 Sep 2026 From $1,765*pp
01 Oct 2026 - 31 Nov 2026 From $2,099*pp
03 Dec 2026 - 21 Jan 2027 From $2,109*pp
28 Jan 2027 - 25 Mar 2027 From $2,259*pp
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 2026 - 22 Sep 2026
From $2,089*pp
23 Sep 2026 - 27 Oct 2026 From $2,415*pp
28 Oct 2026 - 22 Dec 2026 From $2,495*pp
01 Jan 2027 - 31 Mar 2027 From $2,599*pp
Package Code: ANZ2610DST
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 Taupō
• Entry to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland Rotorua
• 2.5 Hour Hobbiton Movie Set Tour ex Shires Rest
Travel Seasons & Pricing
Package must start on a Wednesday, Friday or Sunday
01 May 2026 - 25 Jun 2026 From $2,365*pp
01 Jul 2026 - 30 Sep 2026 From $2,450*pp
01 Oct 2026 - 28 Jan 2027 From $2,699*pp
01 Feb 2027 - 31 Mar 2027 From $2,909*pp
Package Code: ANZ2610DNS
Northern Explorer approaching Mt Ruapehu
Hillary Explorer Sir Edmund
Sir Edmund Hillary, one of the greatest adventurers of the 20th century, embodied the spirit of exploration and discovery. From summiting Everest to journeying across Antarctica, his life was defined by courage, resilience, and a passion for the natural world.
These guided rail journeys through New Zealand’s South Island are inspired by that same pioneering spirit - inviting you to step into landscapes of grandeur and wonder, travelling in comfort while experiencing adventures worthy of Hillary himself.
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.
Includes "Big 5" Rail Journeys of the South Island
3. The Mainlander
Board the Mainlander Train for a spectacular journey linking the southern highlights of the South Island. Travel first from Invercargill to Dunedin, passing through rolling farmland and rugged coastal scenery. Then continue from Dunedin to Oamaru, a route renowned for its historic viaducts, sweeping ocean views, and charming rural landscapes.
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 breathtaking beauty to Kaikōura and then onto Marlborough the following day.
11 Day
Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer
Featuring the “Big 5” Rail Adventures of the South Island of New Zealand! Embark on an unforgettable 11-day adventure through New Zealand, retracing the steps of Sir Edmund Hillary. This guided rail & coach tour combines breathtaking landscapes with rich cultural experiences, showcasing highlights of the South Island. Discover Māori heritage, cruise stunning fiords, and enjoy unique local encounters along the way. Designed for explorers at heart, this tour delivers the ultimate Kiwi experience with comfort and style.
Inclusions
• 10 Nights Accommodation (4-5 Star Hotels)
• 10 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches & 7 Dinners
• Luxury Coach with Experienced Tour Director
• TranzAlpine Train Journey
• Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw
• Walter Peak Farm Experience
• Kingston Flyer Historic Train Excursion
• Milford Sound Day Trip & Cruise
• Takahe Sanctuary
• Mainlander Train JourneyInvercargill to Dunedin
• Taieri Gorge Train Journey
• Mainlander Train JourneyDunedin to Oamaru
• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, Mt Cook
• Guest speaker from the Hillary Family
14 Day
Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer
Featuring the “Super 6” Rail Adventures of the South Island of New Zealand!
Retracing the steps of Sir Edmund Hillary, this guided rail & coach tour combines breathtaking landscapes with rich cultural experiences, showcasing highlights of the South Island and beyond. Along with Māori heritage, alpine vistas, and a cruise through stunning fiords, the journey continues to Kaikōura and Blenheim. Travel aboard the Coastal Pacific Rail and through the scenic Weka Pass, adding unique charm. Designed for explorers at heart, this extended tour delivers the ultimate Kiwi experience with comfort and style.
Inclusions
• 13 Nights Accommodation (4-5 Star Hotels)
• 12 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches & 10 Dinners
• Luxury Coach with Experienced Tour Director
• TranzAlpine Train Journey
• Pounamu Pathway
• Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw
• Walter Peak Farm Experience
• Kingston Flyer Historic Train Excursion
• Milford Sound Day Trip & Cruise
• Takahe Sanctuary
• Mainlander Train from Invercargill to Dunedin
• Taieri Gorge Train Journey
• Mainlander Train from Dunedin to Oamaru
• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, Mt Cook
• Guest speaker from the Hillary family
• International Antarctic Centre OR Private Tram Trip in Christchurch
• Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
• Allan Scott Winery OR Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
• Weka Pass Railway
15 Day
Pinnacle Tour Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer
Hosted by Peter Hillary
This exceptional 5-star, Small Group Tour is 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 New Zealand, hosted by Peter Hillary, son of Sir Edmund Hillary.
Inclusions
• Hosted by Peter Hillary (son of Sir Edmund Hillary) & Experienced Tour Guides
• 15 Nights in luxury accommodation (5-star)
• 15x Cooked Breakfasts, 11x Lunches & 13x Sumptuous Dinners
• Regular Cocktail Hours with Peter Hillary
• Luxury Business Class Coach Travel
• Christchurch Tram
• TranzAlpine Train Journey
• Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
– Self Guided
• Pounamu Pathway Cultural Immersion Tour
• West Coast Treetop Walk
• Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight
• Haast Jetboat River Safari
• Mt Aspiring Station Homestead Visit
• Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw
• Walter Peak Homestead
• Queenstown Gondola
• Milford Sound Return Flights & Premium Cruise
• Guest Speaker at Queenstown Dinner – the ex-mayor of Queenstown
• Kingston Flyer Historic Train Excursion
• Bill Richardson Transport World
• Guest Speaker at Dunedin Dinner – history professor
• Taieri Gorge Train Journey
• Albatross Colony & Fort Taiaroa Tour
• Tasman Glacier Flights
• The Mainlander Train Journey from Dunedin to Oamaru
• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre at Aoraki Mt Cook
• Tasman Glacier Explorer Cruise
• Peter Hillary briefings and story telling throughout the journey
• International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch
• Akaroa Nature Cruise
• Hinewai Private Nature Reserve and presentation by botanist Hugh Wilson
• Coastal Pacific Scenic Train journey (two days in premier Scenic Plus class)
• Kaikōura Whale Watch Cruise
• Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
• Wine Tasting & Farewell Function at Allan Scotts Winery
• Flight to Auckland
Scan the QR code below to watch a tour video from Peter Hillary
Introducing Your Host - Peter Hillary
Hello, my name is Peter Hillary and I will accompany the Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Pinnacle tours around the South Island of New Zealand.
My father Sir Edmund Hillary is famous for making the first ascent of Mt Everest in 1953 with his climbing partner Tenzing Norgay but it is the Southern Alps of New Zealand where
he learned the skills of mountaineering that he loved the most. He took his family into the mountains and around the coasts of the South Island and we all fell in love with this part of this beautiful country. Now I have done the same with my family and there are three generations of Hillarys who know and love the amazing landscapes of the south and that is what I want to share with you on the Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Pinnacle Tour.
12 Day
Winter Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer
Inspired by Sir Edmund Hillary’s adventurous spirit, this 12-day Winter Edition journey takes you through the spectacular South Island by rail and luxury coach. From the iconic TranzAlpine crossing and Fiordland’s Doubtful Sound to the alpine majesty of Aoraki Mount Cook and the historic charm of Dunedin, every day reveals new landscapes, flavours, and experiences. With handpicked accommodation, seamless travel, and exclusive rail journeys, this is the ultimate winter escape through New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenery.
Inclusions
• 11 Nights Accommodation (4-5 Star Hotels)
• 11 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches & 8 Dinners
• Luxury Coach with Experienced Tour Director
• Christchurch City Tram Trip
• TranzAlpine Train Journey
• RealNZ Cruise Lake Wakatipu
• Walter Peak Homestead
• Skyline Gondola and Stratosfare lunch
• Doubtful Sound Day trip & cruise
• Takahe Sanctuary
• Te Hikoi Museum
• Bill Richardson Transport Museum
• Taieri Gorge Train Journey
• Dunedin Railways Train Journey to Oamaru
• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
• Hillary family guest speaker presentation
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.
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
TranzAlpine
17 Day
Signature
New Zealand Up Close
Discover off the beaten track locations and bustling urban centres by three world-famous scenic rail 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
Terms & Conditions
VALIDITY
This document is valid for sale from December 2025 and valid for travel from Dec 2025 to Apr 2027 unless otherwise stated.
All details in this brochure reflect information available to ANZCRO at the time of printing (December 2025). 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 supply 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, and final balance is due the month before tour departs.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
ANZCRO strongly recommends that you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy at the time 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:
FOR ENQUIRIES & RESERVATIONS CALL US
ANZCRO Australia P.O. Box 1291, Southport, QLD 4215, Australia
Tel: (07) 5556 5556 Fax: (07) 5591 5636
anzcro@anzcro.com.au