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TranzAlpine Journey | Christchurch - Greymouth - Christchurch, New Zealand

By Great Journeys of NZ

Tranz Alpine journey, Christchurch - Canterbury

TranzAlpine Cass bank from Long Hill, Christchurch - Canterbury

By KiwiRail

Couple aboard the Coastal Pacific, New Zealand

Get a front row seat for spectacular scenery when you travel by train in New Zealand.

Take a one way train trip or sit back and relax with a return journey. It’s the simplest way to experience New Zealand’s rich diversity and breathtaking beauty.

Rail travel takes you deeper into New Zealand’s landscapes and shows you all sorts of scenic wonders that often aren’t visible from the road.    

There are three main  scenic rail journeys  in New Zealand, traversing the North and South Islands.   

Some rail services also connect the regions, and there are suburban trains within Wellington and Auckland.   

The great train journeys of New Zealand

Popular scenic train trips in new zealand.

The Great Journeys are the three scenic rail trips across New Zealand:  

• The Northern Explorer – a day-long trip between Auckland and Wellington  
• The Coastal Pacific – travels the east coast of the South Island between Picton and Christchurch  
• The TranzAlpine – an internationally-renowned train trip that crosses the Southern Alps on its journey between Christchurch and Greymouth.   

Travel in luxury on all three train journeys with spacious carriages that offer comfortable seating and large panoramic windows for expansive scenic views.   

There is also an Open-Air Viewing Carriage where you can step outside to get closer to nature.   

A Scenic Café car serves meals, drinks and snacks to savour with the scenery.  

Book overnight stops in advance and spend time exploring the towns and settlements along the way.    

Northern Explorer  

The Northern Explorer is a 12-hour train trip between New Zealand’s biggest city, Auckland, and its capital, Wellington, in the North Island.   

The 648km trip takes you through the volcanic heart of the North Island into the dual UNESCO World Heritage site of Tongariro National Park, which is home to three volcanic peaks: Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. In winter, this area transforms into a snowy wonderland, while in summer months it is a rocky, otherworldly landscape.   

You’ll experience the famous Raurimu Spiral, a single-track railway spiral described as “an engineering masterpiece” and towering viaducts. You’ll see cliffs clad in lush native bush, and travel through rolling rural farmland.  

Coastal Pacific   

This picturesque six-hour journey travels the east coast of the South Island between Picton in the north and Christchurch in the south.   

It offers incredible views of the Kaikōura Ranges on one side and the swells of the Pacific Ocean on the other.   

You’ll travel through New Zealand’s biggest and most famous wine region of Marlborough, pass the salt fields of Lake Grassmere (where the waters turn pink in the summer heat) and on to the coastal settlement of Kaikōura – famous for its seafood and whale watching.   

Look out for the sperm whales that visit Kaikōura year-round, or spot orca over summer and humpback whales in our winter months of June and July. Keep a watch for seals and penguins along the rocky coastline too.   

Your journey also takes you across the patchwork of the Canterbury Plains, criss-crossed by vast braided rivers. In total, the Coastal Pacific carries you through 22 tunnels and across 175 bridges.    

TranzAlpine  

The TranzAlpine is regarded as one of the world’s greatest train trips, as it travels coast to coast across the South Island’s stunning Southern Alps.   

The five-hour journey runs between the city of Christchurch in the east, to the river town of Greymouth on the rugged West Coast.   

Highlights include an ascent into the Southern Alps, travelling through stunning Arthur’s Pass National Park and the Otira tunnel.  

You’ll traverse breath-taking bridges and viaducts, and see snow-capped mountains, lakes, braided rivers, and the diverse forest landscapes and steep gorges of Arthur’s Pass.  

The 223.8-kilometre journey includes 19 tunnels and four viaducts.    

Train travel packages  in New Zealand

See a new side of New Zealand with scenic rail short breaks and packages (opens in new window) . These train trips depart from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch and range from two to five days.   

Explore cities or discover the beautiful scenery and natural wonders of the regions. The packages include t rain travel, accommodation, meals and selected local tours and attractions.   

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These New Train Tours Might Be the Most Stunning Way to See New Zealand

Expect panoramic views of lush forests, sparkling coastlines, rolling hills, small towns, and big cities.

Laura Beausire is a Colorado-based writer with three decades of experience covering travel, art, design, and outdoor adventure. She has a master’s degree in art history and a background working in galleries and teaching design history. When she’s not on a hiking trail, Laura contributes to Wine Enthusiast, Food & Wine, Condé Nast Traveler, Shondaland, Hemispheres, Fodor’s, Mountain Living, and many other publications.

Picasa/Courtesy of Great Journeys New Zealand

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 brand-new collection of multiday, guided rail tours that sweep across spectacular landscapes on both North and South islands .

The just-launched rail adventures take three existing train lines and mix them with a fresh crop of guided tour itineraries — ranging from six to 17 days — leading guests on a variety of off-rail excursions in search of Kiwi experiences. The Northern Explorer train starts in Auckland and runs just over 400 miles south to New Zealand’s capital city of Wellington. Along the way, tours bring guests to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and into Tongariro National Park, where they’ll see towering Mount Ruapehu. After crossing the 58-mile Cook Strait aboard the Interislander ferry, travelers can transfer to the Coastal Pacific train at Picton. The route passes through Blenheim’s vineyards and hugs Kaikōura's coast (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. Private coach or shuttle tours can whisk passengers to nearby destinations, including Queenstown and Milford Sound.

Heyworth R&F/Courtesy of Great Journeys New Zealand

“Great Journeys New Zealand takes travelers through some of the country's most stunning and diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and lush forests to rugged coastlines and sparkling oceans,” says Mark Hockley, senior tour manager and partnership specialist at Great Journeys New Zealand. “The scenic routes provide panoramic views that can't be found by road, and the relaxed and comfortable train ride allows travelers to sit back, relax, and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of New Zealand .”

Tour guides provide local insights and personal introductions. “There’s a story at every stop, from tales about Kiwiana culture to facts about New Zealand's curious birds, the history of Māori culture, geology in volcanic regions, rock formations, orientation of cities and locations in New Zealand, and so much more,” Hockley says. An audio commentary system, triggered by GPS, offers additional facts and historical background as the train chugs along. “The views really are breathtaking — from the volcanic peaks of Middle Earth in Ruapehu to sighting the mystical Blue Lake in the northern reaches of New Zealand's Southern Alps — but we also visit local stores and meet sheep farmers and winemakers, and hear their stories along the way,” he says.

“Māori storytelling and legends are woven into every guide's narrative throughout all trips — it's an important part of the New Zealand experience,” says Hockley. “We offer unique cultural experiences on many of our tours, ranging from visiting a Māori village to tasting Māori food, learning about Māori arts and crafts, and more.”

Courtesy of Great Journeys New Zealand

Scenic Class carriages are open and airy, thanks to panoramic windows and skylights, with spacious seating and airbag suspension for a comfy ride. Open carriages are also available — perfect for fresh-air viewing and photography. When you’re hungry, the onboard Scenic Cafe offers New Zealand wine and beer selections, along with dishes showcasing local ingredients, from roasted free-range chicken with Manuka honey to High Country lamb to South Island hot-smoked salmon salad. Starting April 14, Great Journeys will add Scenic Plus service , with a new, custom-built carriage plus a dedicated chef.

Tours are offered on specific dates from January through early May, and travelers can choose between Classic (six to 15 days, with a maximum group size of 35) or Signature (six to 17 days, with a maximum group size of 20). 

New Zealand Rail Journeys

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19 Days Auckland to Christchurch

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7 Days Christchurch to Queenstown

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Discover Must Do Experiences and Highlights

The Glenbrook Vintage Railway

The Glenbrook Vintage Railway is a short trip from Auckland and offers passengers a nostalgic rail experience. Enjoy a ride on the beautifully restored steam train as you take in the picturesque countryside of the North Island.

The Northern Explorer Train

Board the Northern Explorer Scenic Train and cross the Central Plateau of Tongariro National Park with its three volcanic cones. From icy streams to coastal cliffs, sit back and soak up the breathtaking landscapes between Auckland and Wellington.

The Coastal Pacific Train

The Coastal Pacific offers a captivating rail journey between Picton and Christchurch. Witness the breathtaking beauty of Kaikoura's mountain ranges, and the Pacific's serene coastline. Keep a close watch for breaching whales and sunbaking seals.

Tranz Alpine Rail Journey

Traverse the Southern Alps aboard the Tranz Alpine! The carriage's domed windows offer panoramic vistas of the Canterbury Plains with its intricately braided rivers. Or, step onto the open-air carriage in chilly Arthur's Pass before descending to the lush West Coast at Greymouth.

Arthur's Pass National Park

With shingle-filled riverbeds and lush beech forests to the east and deep gorges and dense rainforests to the west, Arthur's Pass National Park serves as an iconic gateway between the east and west coasts of the South Island.

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Out of the window you'll see miles upon miles of stunning back country and you'll get front row seats. Enjoy our New Zealand Rail Journeys: it's one you won't forget soon.

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Southern Alps - In its Winter Glory

Traversing the Alps bedecked in its winter cloak does have its own magic. This trip offers the opportunity to experience it twofold.

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World of wearableart -2, south island spring grand rail tour - featuring franz josef, milford sound, the catlins & stewart island.

The Scenic South Island. Springtime provides a stunning panorama of magnificent southern mountain scenery, tumbling waterfalls, meandering rivers and coastal plains. Experience the scenic south in style travelling by train and luxury coach.

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South Island Train Tours and Packages

Discover the scenically brilliant South Island of New Zealand through LOCO’s selection of enticing rail tours and packages. Choose from the famous Tranzalpine Train, the Coastal Pacific or other great rail tours which meet your desires. Our South Island train tours and packages visit popular areas such as the West Coast, traverse the Southern Alps, ride alongside Kaikoura’s coastline and can take you to Queenstown and stunning Milford Sound.

Tours & Holidays

20 day new zealand rail journey.

This 20 day New Zealand rail journey will deliver you many of the countries best scenic attractions and each of NZ’s three scenic rail experiences.

3 Great Journeys by LOCO Journeys

If your ambition is to travel on each of NZ’s scenic trains, our Three Great Journeys will achieve your dream. A fully flexible independent tour, it will match your time, budget and expectations.

Auckland to Christchurch; Cities & Coastal Highlights

This 10-day city and coastal highlights tour will take you on a journey through the North and South Island’s from Auckland to Christchurch.

Captivating Coast; Wellington to Christchurch

Join us on this guided captivating Wellington to Christchurch train tour. Glide across the magnificent Cook Strait, along coastal beaches and through mountain valleys.

Christchurch to Queenstown; Alpine Highlights

Join us on this week long guided scenic train tour, through the mighty Southern Alps, to the wild West Coast and on to Queenstown.

Cities and Sea; Auckland to Christchurch Rail Tour

Explore New Zealand’s cities and sea journey via its remote regions, travelling on this Auckland to Christchurch rail tour.

Inspirational Alps; Christchurch to Queenstown

Join us on an unforgettable journey through the South Island on a Christchurch to Queenstown train adventure.

New Zealand Rail Highlights

Join us on this fabulous scenic guided New Zealand rail highlights tour through the heart and soul of New Zealand, featuring all three Great Rail Journeys.

New Zealand Rail Tour – Up Close

Discover off the beaten track destinations and bustling urban centres by three world-famous scenic rail trips from Auckland to Queenstown.

NZ Rail Adventure

Enjoy a taste of each of New Zealand’s scenic rail experiences on this NZ rail adventure, including a distinctive ride on the Glenbrook Vintage Steam Railway.

NZ Rail and Cruise Discovery

Join us on this comprehensive 19 day land, New Zealand rail and cruise journey from Christchurch to Wellington. Discover New Zealand on this wonderful tour.

Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer

Inspired by one of the most iconic adventurers of our time, this is an epic journey by heritage steam train and luxury coach. FREE Wellington Cable Car trip when you book with LOCO Journeys.

Southern Alps in Winter Glory

Traversing the Alps bedecked in its winter cloak delivers a very special magic. This trip offers the opportunity to experience it two-fold, once by road and again by TranzAlpine train.

Southern Rail Highlights from Wellington

Join us on tour across Cook Strait, past the mighty Southern Alps and through the Wild West Coast to beautiful Queenstown. This journey features the Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine.

Spectacular South; Wellington to Queenstown

Explore the Spectacular South on this signature rail tour. Glide through the mighty Southern Alps and along the Pacific coastline to Queenstown and Milford Sound

Springtime South Island Rail Tour

The summer South Island Rail Tour provides a stunning panorama of magnificent southern mountain scenery, meandering rivers and coastal plains.

Top of the South Island Train Tour

Enjoy the Top of the South Island train tour on this succinct 7 day independent journey that includes TranzAlpine and Coastal Explorer rail journeys.

TranzAlpine Train, Glaciers & Fiords

The combination of TranzAlpine Train, Glaciers and Fiords offers one of the greatest lure’s of travelling in the South Island of New Zealand. The spectacular and diverse scenery catches your breathe at every turn.

TranzAlpine Winter Wonderland

Winter is a magical time to experience the South Island, and there is something romantic and dreamy about the TranzApine Winter Wonderland rail journey set against a backdrop of snow.

Twin Rail Journeys of New Zealand

Enjoy the premier twin rail journeys of New Zealand on each island on this succinct, independent 13 day countrywide tour from Queenstown to Auckland

Wellington to Christchurch; Coastal Highlights

Join us on this guided scenic Wellington to Christchurch rail tour across the Cook Strait, past coastal beaches and through mountain valleys.

Short Breaks

Blenheim rail break; wine & wings.

Departing from Christchurch, this delightful journey takes you along remote beaches, between mountains and sea to the Marlborough wine region.

Coastal Pacific Train Wildlife Encounter

See the majestic seabirds or get up close to dolphins or whales and discover the spectacular wildlife of Kaikōura on the Coastal Pacific Train.

Kaikoura Experience from Wellington

Travel by ferry and scenic train from Wellington to Christchurch, and enjoy a wonderous Kaikoura experience including the natural wonders of this marine paradise.

Premium TranzAlpine Glacier Experience

Enjoy a heavenly escape into a world filled with fascination and grandeur on this premium TranzAlpine Glacier Experience including 5-star accommodation.

TranzAlpine – Explore Hokitika

Jump aboard the TranzAlpine scenic train and explore Hokitika in style. Travel via rail through the Southern Alps to Greymouth enjoying the views from your window.

TranzAlpine – Taste of the West Coast

The TranzAlpine is a scenic rail trip running from the East Coast to the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand.

TranzAlpine & West Coast Glaciers to Queenstown

Ride New Zealand’s premier rail journey on this two-day train tour from Christchurch to the West Coast. Discover the Glaciers and then head further south to the stunning lakes district and finally Queenstown.

TranzAlpine Glacier Experience

Be amazed at this exploration of the West Coast on the stunning TranzAlpine Glacier Experience. Discover the ancient world of Glacier Country and its natural wonders, where ice rivers carve through mountains and rainforests thrive.

TranzAlpine Overnight

Journey to Greymouth on this TranzAlpine overnight adventure. Escape the city and travel to New Zealand’s famous West Coast. This rail break will take you through the heart of the Southern Alps to a land of timeless beauty.

TranzAlpine West Coast Explorer

The 4 day TranzAlpine West Coast Explorer is a timeless and enjoyable escape to Lake Brunner, Punakaiki, & Hokitika. Break free from the ordinary and visit some great West Coast destinations.

The Coastal Pacific

Join the Coastal Pacific and explore the stunning Kaikōura coastline, through the idyllic Canterbury Plains to the Garden City of Christchurch.

The TranzAlpine Train

Take in the South Island’s stunning mountains and the vast Canterbury Plains aboard the TranzAlpine. NZ’s finest inland rail journey.

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Experience Aotearoa aboard our world-famous scenic train journeys.

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Sustainability

Sustainability is at the heart of KiwiRail's business.

KiwiRail’s customers discuss the value of rail

We’ve been out in the field with a number of our key customers to find out what’s really important to them. This is an important step in our journey towards greater customer-centricity. There’s a lot of great mahi happening across the motu and we’re humbled to work alongside our customers’ organisations helping them to meet their business goals. A robust, resilient and well-maintained rail network is integral to meeting our customers’ needs both here in Aotearoa New Zealand and on the world stage. But don’t take our word for it. Hear what our customers have to say!

KiwiRail is one of New Zealand’s largest employers, with proud staff operating in more than 50 towns and cities across the country. History means a lot to our people – many are the third or fourth generation in their family to work in rail – but it is the promise of rail’s future that excites our 4,500 people.

Of KiwiRail’s four core values, ‘Care and Protect’ is the one our people live and breathe by. It is why our Zero Harm vision is to become the leading health and safety organisation in New Zealand.

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Our rail and ferry network connects 50 towns and cities across New Zealand. We count thousands of households and businesses as our neighbours.

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Train travel in New Zealand is a scenic experience

Each of the three scenic passenger rail journeys in New Zealand are unique, with views from the Northern Explorer train showing you the diverse countryside of the North Island - towering viaducts, spectacular gorges, hidden valleys, to the rugged coastline of the South Island, seen from the Coastal Pacific train to the mountain alpine scenery from the TranzAlpine train. 

Travel in air-conditioned, centrally heated, carpeted carriages that have an advanced air bag suspension system for quieter and smoother travel, un-tinted, non-reflective, panoramic side and roof windows to capture the dramatic coastal and mountain views, GPS triggered journey commentary in two languages (English and Mandarin) at your seat via headphones, plus information displays, overhead HD video and onboard washroom facilities.

Enjoy the Scenic Class experience onboard all services with a range of fresh food and beverages available from the café car. Seating is comfortable '2 Seat-Aisle-2 Seat' reclining seats with head rests or 'Table Group' (4 people around a table) seating - great for families, small groups or meeting new friends.

Scenic Plus class is now available on the TranzAlpine train and will return to the Coastal Pacific train from 14 December 2023 and the Northern Explorer train from 15 May 2024. Take your seat in the exclusive carriage and enjoy an enhanced dining experience where both hot and cold dishes are freshly made in the kitchen carriage. The locally inspired, seasonal dishes are served at your seat while you sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery, The complimentary drinks menu including world famous New Zealand wines are carefully selected to match the sumptuous lunch and afternoon tea. Dedicated hosts are on hand to answer questions, add local knowledge and to ensure the best journey possible.

For mobility-impaired passengers, there are spaces for wheel chairs and a disabled public toilet. Wheelchair hoists provide access to the cafe carriage from track level. For hearing-impaired passengers - a hearing loop covers all of the cafe carriage saloon and serving area. 

All long distance passenger trains have a cafe carriage serving a range of snacks, light meals and non-alcoholic/alcoholic drinks and open air viewing carriage.

Your friendly onboard train crew are there to provide assistance to make your travel a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

With connecting scenic coach services, you can travel south from either Greymouth or Christchurch to the West Coast Glaciers, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Invercargill, Mt Cook/Aoraki, Invercargill (for ferry services to Stewart Island), Dunedin or from Auckland to Paihia in the Bay of Islands and the thermal wonderland of Rotorua.

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An Unforgettable Experience For All

Now listed in top 10% of attractions worldwide, winner of the traveller's choice award 2023 - trip advisor.

Discover the people and places history left behind - a  mystically remote region in New Zealand's Central North Island

Abandoned since 2009, the 142km long Stratford-Okahukura Line with its 24 tunnels and 90 plus bridges, all hand-built, now serves as our playground.

The quiet mystery of this seldom seen region known as the Forgotten World, is steeped in history and cultural significance. Immerse yourself in passionate storytelling about our ancestry whilst exploring one of the country's most beautiful and remote locations, with its backcountry ghost towns, pristine native bush, rugged hills and deep hidden valleys.

Forgotten World Adventures are experts in guided experiences throughout this spectacular destination. Choose from six unique adventures, each featuring an iconic self-driven guided rail cart journey between Taumaraunui and Stratford. Experiences can also include a jet boat ride along the majestic Whanganui River, helicopter flight over the Whanganui National Park and visits to the unique Whangamōmona Hotel and Bridge to Nowhere amongst other historic landmarks and attractions.

Choose your Forgotten World Experience

What to expect

Now listed in the top 10% of attractions worldwide, winner of the traveller's choice awards 2023 - trip advisor.

We offer a unique and unrivalled experience in New Zealand. Enjoy a front row seat as you travel through the breathtaking, ever-changing landscape whilst discovering our country's cultural and pioneering history. Escape the everyday and embark on an experience that will transport you to a bygone era bursting with intrigue and embark on one of the most enchanting and genuine experiences New Zealand has to offer.

We pride ourselves on our understated kiwi professionalism and friendly, helpful staff who will go above and beyond to ensure you have a memorable, safe trip with us. We treat our guests like friends. As well as being competent and knowledgeable, our local guides also bring the perfect blend of humour and inclusivity to your experience in the hope of making it unforgettable.

Our bookings team is currently available by email or phone to assist with enquiries from 6.30am to 6pm, 7 days a week, during our peak season.

"An unforgotten experience. Proud Kiwis driving a very unique Kiwi venture"

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“Best money spent in NZ and just what we were looking for. Real New Zealand”

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"Sheer natural beauty that brings peace to the soul!"

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Our Purpose

We strive to provide unforgettable experiences of a lifetime for all and endeavour to ensure these experiences are some of the most enchanting and genuine New Zealand has to offer. We are passionate about sustainability and uphold the Tiaki Promise. We have a crucial role as kaitiaki guardians; to protect and respect our special place, the Forgotten World, a role we embrace today and will continue to honour tomorrow.

Find the right adventure for you

Whether you're considering a half-day excursion, the 142km two-day trip or something a little extra special, we offer adventures to whet all appetites, for all ages and abilities. Choose from six unique experiences, all of which feature an iconic self-driven guided rail cart journey. We trust the ever-changing vista, with its magnificent expanses of sub-tropical rainforest and untamed native bush won't fail to disappoint.

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Luxury Bike Experiences

Truly see the South Islands rugged beauty, our luxury cycle experiences let you discover the best of what our regions have to offer. With a variety of bespoke itineraries, you get the serendipity that comes with an adventure paired with personalised services, luxurious accommodation and delicious cuisine.

You will experience all the unique differences we offer when you explore with us.  

Our Cycling Experiences

We are the only company specializing in luxury cycle experiences in Central Otago and beyond since 2004. See below for what’s possible…

THE PREMIER

Alps 2 ocean.

Join us on New Zealand’s premier Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Experience. Our luxury experience will take you on a culinary journey along some of New Zealand’s most spectacular cycle trails surrounded by the Southern Alps and past turquoise lakes. Indulge in luxurious and experience a highly personalised service like no other, creating memories and a cycle experience of a lifetime.

Otago Central Rail Trail Experience

Our premier Otago Central Rail Trail experience takes you on an enchanting journey through New Zealand’s picturesque landscapes. Along the way you will be able to enjoy other activities with our comprehensive itinerary including perfecting the art of curling amidst the stunning backdrop of Naseby, and exploring the iconic Vulcan Hotel and sapphire-hued oasis of the Blue Lake at St Bathan’s.  Enjoy boutique/luxury accommodation along with delicious cuisine.

THE CLASSIC

Discover the charm of the Otago Central Rail Trail – an enchanting journey through New Zealand’s picturesque landscapes. Pedal through historic gold mining towns, relish the serenity of vast plains, and immerse yourself in local hospitality.   As you explore the trail biking from Clyde to Middlemarch you’ll enjoy a unique blend of adventure and tranquility that makes the Otago Central Rail Trail an unforgettable experience.

Bikes & Boats Experience

The Lake Dunstan and Roxburgh Gorge Trails

Perfect for a short get away or combined with the Otago Central Rail Trail, Our Luxury Bikes & Boats experience allows for a unique perspective of two of New Zealand’s finest cycle trails. Learn about the gold mining history & hidden gems of the Lake Roxburgh Gorge Trail. Marvel at the feat of engineering that has gone into the Lake Dunstan Trail.  Incorporating spectacular scenery, boat rides, cycling, wineries, luxury accommodation & award winning food – this experience has something for everyone!

Central Otago Gold

The Otago Central Rail Trail, Roxburgh Gorge Trail and Lake Dunstan Trail

Experience three of Central Otago’s greatest trails. Based from your luxury accommodation in Clyde, you will get to sample three amazing and very different trails, giving you a taste of what cycling in Central Otago has to offer, all done in style and luxury.

Looking for a luxury adventure for just the day? We offer some great options!

Exploring New Zealand’s original great ride to enjoying a ride with a scenic cruise or jet boat tour, taking in breathtaking views from different vantage points.

On one of our quality full suspension e-mountain bikes, we can take you to the hills (literally) and explore the awesomeness that is Matangi Station MTB park or enjoy miles of challenging single-track with breathtaking panoramic views at Flat Top Hill (both are for intermediate and advanced riders).

We also offer a sneaky half day ride.

BACK COUNTRY

An amazing overnight E-Bike experience taking you from the River Track and the confluence of might Clutha and Manuherikia rivers, along the Otago Central Rail Trail then up to the highlands of the Ida Valley and Poolburn Dam. This is an exclusive Luxury Trail Company experience.

An amazing 2 night/ 3day E-Bike experience taking you from the shores of Lake Wanaka then along the bluffs of Lake Hawea. Spend 2 nights and have exclusive access to an iconic highcountry sheep and cattle station in a spectacular location. This is an exclusive Luxury Trail Company experience.

We only do luxury

You will experience all the unique differences we offer when you explore with us. With luxurious accommodation and delicious cuisine combined with personalised service. We will provide an experience to remember.

ACCOMMODATION

Luxury lodgings.

As part of our bespoke itineraries, you will end each day in style with luxury accommodation. We have handpicked your accommodation options with luxury, absolute comfort and spectacular views at the forefront of our selections.

Ending each day with style

As part of our unique itineraries, you will only ever stay in luxury accommodation and the best available depending on where you are. We have done our research and found the best throughout the Otago region and beyond. Handpicked accommodation that boasts character, refinement and absolute comfort. You will always finish your day with peace of mind, knowing that what is at the end of your ride that day is just pure luxury and relaxation.

Exquisite Dining

Gourmet dining

Our Experiences aim to take you on not just amazing cycling adventures but also amazing culinary journeys from fine dining to classic pub meals and great pies. Enjoy the breathtaking Central Otago Trails and more with us and you’ll also get to indulge in some of the finest gourmet wining and dining available.

More hidden gems

Although you will get to see more than you may dream of on our Experiences, there are still so many more hidden gems in the Otago region that you might not want to miss! Check out our Explore page to see what other highlights you can add to your adventure.

What people say

• Alps 2 Ocean Premier
• Otago Central Rail Trail Classic
• Otago Central Rail Trail Premier
• Bikes & Boats Premier Experience
• The Premier Central Otago Gold

• The Northern Explorer
• Train Services
• The Coastal Pacific
• The Tranz Alpine
• National Train Timetable
• Major Railway Stations
• Regional Train Services
• Local Trains

About the journey

The Northern Explorer train service is a scenic rail journey through the five unique geographical regions of the North Island - travelling between Auckland, New Zealand's largest city - home of the Sky Tower, through the central heartland of the North Island to Wellington - New Zealand's harbour capital and arts and culture centre.

Along the way, you will see fantastic views of New Zealand farmland, rugged bush landscapes before ascending up the world famous Raurimu Spiral to the volcanic plateau passing the majestic volcanoes of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Ruapehu - the home of the North Island skifields and descending through stunning river gorges to the farming landscapes and rocky sea scapes of the lower North Island - all from large panoramic windows and the open air viewing deck of the Northern Explorer train.

The Northern Explorer carriages have an advanced air bag suspension system for quieter and smoother travel, un-tinted, non-reflective, panoramic side and roof windows to capture the dramatic coastal and mountain views of the magnificent North Island. GPS triggered journey commentary in five languages at your seat via headphones, plus information displays and overhead HD video and are centrally heated/air conditioned for passenger comfort.

Scenic Plus Experience

Scenic Plus will be available on the Northern Explorer train from 25 September 2024. When you take your Scenic Plus seat, in the exclusive carriage, you'll enjoy an enhanced dining experience where both hot and cold dishes are freshly made in the custom built kitchen carriage. The locally inspired, seasonal dishes are served at your seat, while you sit back and enjoy the sensational scenery. The complimentary drinks menu is carefully selected to match the sumptuous lunch and afternoon tea. Enjoy New Zealand's world famous Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir wines or sit back with a cold beer or freshly made coffee and tea.  Scenic Plus dedicated hosts are on hand to answer questions, add local knowledge and ensure you have the best journey possible.

The Carriages

Each carriage has onboard washroom/toilet facilities, with '2 Seat-Aisle-2 Seat' seating either as reclining forward facing seats with head and foot rests or 'Table Group' (4 people around a table) seating allowing you to experience the amazing views of the magnificent North Island, through panoramic side and roof windows, while enjoying the company of other passengers.

The Northern Explorer train has a café carriage offering a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, snacks and light meals and a viewing carriage for sweeping views of the North Island.

For mobility-impaired passengers, there are spaces for wheel chairs and a disabled public toilet. Wheelchair hoists provide access to the café carriage from track level.

Disabilities

For hearing-impaired passengers - a hearing loop covers all of the café carriage saloon and serving area. The Northern Explorer train is a reserved seating 'One Class' non-smoking service.

Operating Days

Northbound Wednesday, Friday & Sunday

Southbound Monday, Thursday & Saturday

Operating days are confirmed to 30 June 2025.

Scheduled Track Maintenance

• 29 March–01 April 2024 FULL CANCELLATION No bus replacements
• 25-28 April 2024 FULL CANCELLATION No bus replacements
• 31 May–03 June 2024 FULL CANCELLATION No bus replacements
• 28 June–01 July 2024 FULL CANCELLATION No bus replacements
• 25–28 October 2024 FULL CANCELLATION No bus replacements
• 25 December 2024-12 January 2025* FULL CANCELLATION No bus replacements

Stops along the way include Papakura, Hamilton, Otorohanga (Waitomo), Taumarunui, National Park, Ohakune, Palmerston North and Paraparaumu.

More details.

The Northern Explorer train connects with various bus and coach services at Hamilton from Rotorua and Tauranga and at Palmerston North and Wellington to and from other North Island destinations.

So, sit back and enjoy a genuine kiwi rail experience on the Northern Explorer train travelling through 5 unique regions of the North Island with its spectacular scenic beauty.

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Quality worth making room for

The de-railing of New Zealand

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In the 16 years since it was bought by the government for $690 million, KiwiRail has had several overhauls and turnaround plans worth billions of dollars.

Its ambitions as a successful, profitable operator of tourism, freight and ferries have often been derailed by disasters from earthquakes to cyclones, mine explosions and the collapse of key industries like coal mining.

The latest goal for KiwiRail under the multi-billion dollar 2021 New Zealand Rail Plan was to make its “above rail” business of trains and ferries commercially viable by 2025 and able to fund future investments, but that was contingent on significant ongoing government investment in the network, the “below rail” side of the business.

“It gave KiwiRail certainty for the first time that it would get specific allotments every year for three years and then having a wider 10-year outlook,” BusinessDesk infrastructure editor Oliver Lewis tells The Detail .

But the new Government is taking a different approach to the state-owned enterprise, making it clear that road users would not be cross subsidising rail through the National Land Transport Programme.

“That results in a massive reduction in the possible range of funds that KiwiRail can access in future years. And so there’s a lot of concern from the unions and others, (including) rail users, that this might result in more underutilised lines getting closed down or mothballed,” says Lewis.

Add to that the Finance Minister Nicola Willis’ bombshell decision not to pump another billion dollars into the Interislander mega ferries, sinking the project and leaving a question mark over KiwiRail’s future as a shipping operator.

“I get the impression that Government and officials are asking themselves this very question,” New Zealand Herald ‘s Wellington reporter Georgina Campbell says.

Campbell has been following the dramas of the Interislander for several years and says she felt relief that KiwiRail was pursuing a plan to replace the ageing ferries, especially after the terrifying Kaitaki incident last year when it drifted towards rocks, endangering the lives of hundreds of passengers on board.

“That really scared me and so I always felt that at least there’s a plan to replace these unreliable ships. I feel like I’ve been brought back to that space; I’m nervous. The Government says they’re working on a plan but technically there is no plan B yet,” she says.

Willis will not commit to having replacement ships on the water by 2026, as was the plan for the first mega ferry, but Campbell sees that as a political risk.

“What happens if there is another Kaitaki incident in 2026 and they haven’t got new ships and this time the ship doesn’t narrowly avoid disaster? There are a few things up in the air but in my view I think there needs to be a plan in place and implemented by 2026.”

She says journalists and the public are in an information vacuum over the Government’s plans and the details of its decision not to fund the mega ferries. The “breadcrumbs” of information she has received show that a Ministry of Transport briefing floated the possibility of KiwiRail exiting the ferry service but more should be known about its future by mid-year.

Meanwhile, Oliver Lewis thinks the more likely option for KiwiRail is a retrenchment of the rail network with a focus on the main centres and the golden triangle of Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga. But he’s keen to know more about New Zealand First’s stance on KiwiRail and future funding plans.

“I think there’s a signal from this Government that they don’t share the same enthusiasm as the previous government for investing a lot of money into rail which is slightly ironic because Shane Jones and Winston Peters were ginormous boosters of KiwiRail and secured a lot of funding for it when they were in the previous coalition.

“I’m not sure where their thinking is, why they’ve gone so quiet on rail in recent months.”

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The issue of kiwirail goes far deeper than a change in government. The demise of the rail ferries was not due to a change in government but a refusal to continually pay ever increasing and uncapped large sums of money for proposed and ill-planned port infrastructure (look at the fight over where to site the Wellington terminus). Kiwirail have been “upgrading” the wellington rail network for over 10 years and still there are failures and closures such that catching a train is a gamble. The line was originally built from scratch in half the time. The stations, serviceable for the last 50 years have been replaced at huge expense – but not the reliability of the trains (latest issue is the temperature in summer stopping the trains – come on! the temperature now is no different than in the past, so why was that not factored in when the lines were “upgraded”? The Wairarapa line has issues with a new length of track that is now unsuitable for the rolling stock. You couldn’t make a comedy of Kiwirail – it wouldn’t be believed. If it was a private company, the shareholders would have replaced the board.

Rail has been underfunded for decades.

Which is, to say the least, unfortunate, given the undeniable strategic importance of a electrified rail system (providing urban and inter-regional passenger services as well as freight transport) to the mitigation of and adaption to climate change.

Road transport is privately owned and run. Rail is publicly owned and run. Road transport has issues, just as rail does. We have an ideologically driven government that is funded by private individuals who seek private profit over public services. This is the real issue. Rail is by far over time a better option for transportation of goods and people; but why have the nation benefit when a few private individuals can make heaps? Rail is a massive success all over the world, except in ideologically driven NZ where (simply put) the ideology is private profit good, public benefit bad. That is the issue.

I am scared. For two reasons. It’s a big one.

First, there’s the responsibility that the Government has for ensuring our two islands are integrated and work together. There was a ferry plan in place and it was abruptly cancelled with no Plan B in place. A recipe for disaster. And now Simeon Brown is considering a far more expensive tunnel under Wellington.

Second, the Government has the responsibility for ensuring an effective rail system. They tried to shrug it off by selling rail overseas in the 1980’s. But it wouldn’t go away and their responsibility forced them to pick up the high cost of absent maintenance later. Meanwhile they starve rail of funds and put them all into roads. The cost of roads is huge, far exceeding what’s spent on building construction at all levels.

Proponents of rail transport simply ignore the realities on why limits on road transport were removed. Rail transport has never been run successfully as a business in NZ whereas Road Transport has been provided mostly by privately-owned businesses. Goods transported by Rail require road transport to and from a rail head. Take for example our Supermarket chains – no rail sidings run from their warehouses or to any supermarket but road transport serves them both. The overhead of loading/unloading multiple times for goods carried by rail can only be financially viable when shipping containers are used and there are few instances where this is viable for domestic freight.

Then there is the consideration of roads use by heavy transport vehicles. The Road User Charges they pay (in common with all road-related taxes) is not all used for roading maintenance (search on the National Land Transport Fund for detail).

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Unique Far North steam experience closer after new boiler arrives for SS Minerva

Mike Dinsdale

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The new boiler arrives for 114-year-old Bay of Islands ferry Minerva.

The 114-year-old historic Bay of Islands Steam Ship Minerva is now closer to being back in the water after getting a new boiler.

It’s now full steam ahead for the restoration of SS Minerva after the six-tonne boiler, made by Lyttleton Engineering, was delivered to the Ōpua workshop where the work is taking place.

Since 2010 a band of volunteers in the Bay of Islands has been working to restore the Minerva, a passenger ferry built in Auckland in 1910.

It’s been a long-running project with its share of setbacks and challenges, one of the biggest of which was finding a pair of steam engines to power the vessel.

The Minerva’s own steam engines were pulled out and dumped at sea many decades ago when the 20-metre, kauri-hulled vessel was converted to diesel.

Internet sleuthing led the restoration team to its first steam engine in Seattle a few years ago. It was in a Royal Navy launch that was transported to the US and converted into a pleasure boat, before eventually being tied up to a wharf and left to rot.

Two main engines - it has four in total - were both sourced from overseas and the final piece of the jigsaw needed to get everything finished was the boiler.

Now it’s on site project manager Peter Tustian said the next step is building a steel platform to put the boiler on, then connect it up to the four engines and get it working.

The boiler will run on compressed wood pellets, which Tustian said is more environmentally friendly than petrol or diesel and is an efficient way to power her up.

‘’It’s a modern boiler using the latest technology with a total output of 800 kilowatts of power. We can’t just bolt her to the hull though and have to build a strong foundation to spread the boiler load evenly.’’

He said after almost 15 years to get to this stage was fantastic and he was looking forward to the next steps, and hoped the Minerva would be ready to steam along the water for the 2025/26 summer season.

Tustian said the Kerikeri Steam Trust and the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway Trust- which runs the steam train Gabriel and other trains from Kawakawa - will now become one and combine to provide a unique steam experience that would bring in tourists.

He said there probably won’t be anywhere else in New Zealand that you can get a steam train, then depart to get on board a steam ferry.

“This will see people get on the steam train at Kawakawa then steam to Ōpua, get aboard the ferry Minerva then steam off to Waitangi or Russell. We think that will be an amazing steam experience.

“And for the visitors it will be a very unique experience. We have open hatches and a window where people can see the steam engines working - the pistons turning and the works - so they will be able to see, hear and feel a steam experience that will be second to none.”

The Minerva was fitted with twin steam engines and propellers because it was designed to operate in the shallow Wairoa River near Clevedon. That also increased its manoeuvrability, which would be a boon on the Kawakawa River.

The restoration of the Minerva is part of a wider project involving the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway and the Twin Coast Cycle Trail and part-funded by the Provincial Growth Fund.

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