Itinerary
This once-in-a-lifetime experience will see you explore the scenic wonders of New Zealand from Queenstown to Auckland aboard three iconic train journeys. This itinerary must start on a Monday due to the dates that the trains operate.
Arrive into Queenstown, clear customs and collect your rental car. Make your way to your accommodation for the first night of your South Island holiday. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore the vibrant alpine town, on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Today join your guided coach tour to Milford Sound where you will travel south around the edge of Lake Wakatipu towards Te Anau and Fiordland National Park. The first stop will be a morning tea break at Te Anau where you’ll have time purchase food and souvenirs before travelling into Milford. There are various photo stops on your way into the Sound with lots of opportunities to marvel at the beauty of the region. The magnificent Mitre Peak will greet on arrival into Milford Sound where the tour connects with a Boutique Small Boat cruise. Enjoy your packed lunch box and complimentary coffee, tea and biscuits on-board while cruising past sheer cliff faces and cascading waterfalls. The wonder of Milford Sound is breath taking on an epic scale. You’ll journey back to Queenstown in the comfort of your guided coach arriving back at approximately 7.30pm.
After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and farewell Queenstown. Heading out of town make a pitstop in Arrowtown, a quaint historic village with crafts, boutique shops and top-rated restaurants to visit before leaving the Southern Lakes region. Travel north over the Crown Range, through Wanaka, out to Haast on the West Coast heading up to Glacier Country. Enjoy the diverse landscapes of the rugged West Coast where beaches meet rainforests.
The day is yours to explore. There is an abundant range of things to see and do including an optional Heli Hike to experience the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier. A visit to the West Coast Wildlife Center is highly recommended. This is an indoor, all-weather attraction that offers an insight of bringing nature, conservation and wildlife together including a chance to see New Zealand’s rarest kiwi, the Rowi.
This morning you’ll depart Franz Josef for Greymouth. Moving north along the coastline takes you through Hokitika, famous for Pounamu (Jade Greenstone), this beachside town is the perfect morning tea stop. A short drive north is Greymouth, here you will drop off your car before boarding the famous TranzAlpine train to Christchurch. This scenic journey takes you through Arthurs Pass and the Canterbury Plains before arriving into the charming and beautiful city of Christchurch. You will then be transferred into Christchurch City, where you will enjoy a lovely two night stay.
Enjoy today at leisure. Take a stroll along the Avon River, head out to the Port Hills and up the Gondola, take a tram around the city and discover the rebuild and rejuvenation of Christchurch. The new Riverside Farmers markets is a must see, offering local produce and bespoke shopping. There are restaurants, cafes and bars catering to locals and visitors alike.
An early start today as you catch the Coastal Pacific train from Christchurch further north to Picton. This rail journey hugs the coastline offerings views of the Waipara wine region, the seaside town of Kaikoura and into the iconic Marlborough wineries before arriving at Picton.
This little port village (Picton) is the gateway to the South Island and where you will board the Interislander ferry for the 3 hour sailing across the Cook Strait to the North Island and capital city of Wellington. Upon arrival into Wellington, make your own way to your hotel. The next two days are at leisure in Wellington, the coolest little capital. Some highlights not to be missed during your stay are the National Museum Te Papa, Weta Workshop and Zealandia Ecosanctuary. You may wish to jump on one of the city tours which offers an insight into the culture and history of the city. Or ride the iconic Cable Car at Mt Victoria which offers great views over the city and harbour. Or visit Courtney Place and Cuba Street, home to a great array of restaurants, cafes and bars.
The Northern Explorer train is your transport for the day departing from Wellington and travelling almost the length of the North Island to Auckland. Experience the extremes of New Zealand’s scenery, from the sparkling Kapiti Coast to the volcanic peaks of the Central Plateau and the fertile farmlands of the Waikato. Upon arrival into Auckland, make your own way to your hotel.
Enjoy the harbour city at your own leisure. You may wish to head out on the harbour with one of the many sailing experiences. Or why not visit the iconic Sky Tower, historic Auckland Museum, the playful All Blacks Experience or soar to new heights by climbing the Auckland Bridge.
Your New Zealand rail package holiday comes to an end today. After checkout of your Auckland accommodation, you will be transferred to Auckland Airport for your next adventure.
