The Most Beautiful New Zealand Rail Journeys
• Northern Explorer • Coastal Pacific • Tranzalpine Express • Taieri Gorge • Marlborough Flyer •
North Island
Northern Explorer
The longest running passenger service in New Zealand, the Northern Explorer runs north-south across the interior of the North Island linking the largest city (cosmopolitan Auckland) to the cultural capital (Wellington). The scenic journey passes through five unique geographical regions - majestic volcanic peaks of the Central Plateau, fertile farmlands of Waikato, stunning river gorges with viaducts that bridge deep ravines, and finally the rocky seascapes.
Robin Heyworth
South Island
The Coastal Pacific
The Coastal Pacific journey begins in Picton, offering the full spectrum of New Zealand’s culture and character. Scenic-class seating is forward-facing (reclinable) with headrests, or a table-of-4 alcove configuration - all with large panoramic viewing windows. Scenic-Plus seating (one carriage only) offers local commentary, and food from local producers (regional delicacies like Marlborough salmon and Kaikoura crayfish) delivered straight to your seat. An open-sided Observation Carriage (perfect for photography) allows your senses to be awakened with fresh clean sea air.
![RAI0126 Shot7-11549 Full Carriage[4].jpg](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f51804027443e0fbb301dcf/1610586465828-BCUME7U04ONJK1W75S6Z/RAI0126+Shot7-11549+Full+Carriage%5B4%5D.jpg)
Tranzalpine Express
Voted one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, the Tranzalpine Express travels from coast to coast between Christchurch and Greymouth. The highlight section of the journey is travelling the edges of the ice-fed Waimakariri River (spectacular ice-blue in colour). The world-class carriages are designed to show off the stunning scenery - centrally heated/air-conditioned with wide side and roof windows, and open-air viewing decks. Reclining seats have head and foots rests, plenty of legroom, a power outlet and huge panoramic windows.
Marlborough Flyer
The day-tour by a century-old heritage WW1 steam-hauled train starts from the inter-island ferry terminal in Picton. The loco was built in 1915 and the historic carriages are originals. The 30km journey chugs up the steep and challenging climb out of town, through tunnel and forests, the Para Wetlands, across the Wairau River into the Wairau Valley, and through a sea of vineyard into Blenheim - the main hub of the Marlborough wine region. Disembark at the ‘Wine Station’ for a couple of hours at leisure exploring the shops, gourmet cafes and restaurants - plus of course sampling some wine.
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