Think you’ve seen every corner of New Zealand? Think again.
Hop aboard one of our world-famous train journeys, and unlock hidden gems only accessible by rail. From dramatic landscapes to cozy winter views, the magic of New Zealand’s backyard is waiting for you this winter.
Discover the Wonders of Aotearoa
Kids Fares $25 These School Holidays. Travel from 20 September to 5 October '25
Available on the TranzAlpine, Northern Explorer and Coastal Pacific in scenic class.
How to Redeem
1. Choose your journey and enter the code when booking:
KIDS25NE – Northern Explorer
KIDS25TA – TranzAlpine
KIDS25CP – Coastal Pacific
2. Let the adventure begin!
Christchurch Local?
This season, rediscover the South Island aboard the legendary TranzAlpine— and see your own backyard in a whole new light.
And if you’re based in Ōtautahi/Christchurch, we’ve got something special just for you.
- Save up to $50 OFF all TranzAlpine Scenic fares, and up to $100 OFF Scenic Plus fares when you travel between August 1 and August 30, 2025.
Just use the discount code LOVELOCALCHCH when booking.
It’s our way of helping Christchurch locals reconnect with the landscapes that make this region iconic—by train.
Please show proof of Christchurch region residency at check-in. Discount is per person.
Go North Go East
This August, see New Zealand’s iconic rail journeys from a new perspective — and enjoy a special saving when you take the path less travelled.
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Save up to $40 on Scenic fares and up to $80 on Scenic Plus fares
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Valid for northbound Northern Explorer and eastbound TranzAlpine journeys
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Travel between August 1 and August 31, 2025
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Use promo code UNDISCOVERED when booking
Explore more region's offers when you arrive at your chosen destination
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours - 15% off family lake tours
Bring your family and discover the breathtaking mirror-like waters of Lake Mapourika by kayak or boat.
30% off West Coast 2-Night 4 Star Getaway Package
Two nights’ accommodation, a scenic flight over Franz Josef Glacier and entry to see live kiwi at West Coast Wildlife Centre. All for $399 pp!
Rainforest Retreat – Pay 2 Stay 3 nights
Stay longer with us at Rainforest! Give yourself more time to enjoy all the unforgettable activities Franz Josef Glacier has to offer. Stay for 3 nigh
This Winters Legendary Journeys
The Northern Explorer and TranzAlpine will take you to some of the most awe-inspiring locations in New Zealand. From majestic mountains to vast plains, you’ll discover sights you can’t access by car.
Rail Events & Experiences
Discover unforgettable journeys with Rail Events & Experiences
Why choose rail?
You’ve hiked, you’ve driven, and maybe you think you’ve seen it all. But, there’s a whole new world in Aotearoa waiting to be discovered — one that only a train can show you.
Whether it’s the shimmering lakes, rugged mountains, or the vast plains, New Zealand’s beauty is best experienced by rail. Let us take care of the logistics while you sit back, relax, and witness the stunning vistas that you can’t access by car.
Discover More
Looking for tips, tricks, and reasons to take a rail journey this season? Explore our blogs below for everything you need to know
- Get Your Winter Fix in Ohakune and National Park
- Family Fun in Kaikoura
- A long weekend in Christchurch
- Experience Auckland like a local
Autumn and winter are the perfect seasons to discover New Zealand by rail. Imagine cozying up in a train carriage as you watch snow-capped mountains or golden leaves fall from the trees. Check out our blogs and find out more about why this is a perfect time to travel -
5 Reasons to Travel on a Scenic Train this Autumn
10 Sites Not to be Missed on Your Winter Journey
Looking for things to do in townships and cities? Check out our top suggestions for unique experiences and hidden gems below!
Looking for the most Instagrammable spots along your rail journey? Discover the picture-perfect locations that will make your feed shine!
Planning a romantic getaway? Explore our guide to the most charming and scenic rail journeys perfect for a memorable escape with your loved one.
Don’t Wait – Winter is on full display!
Winter casts a whole new spell over the landscape—crisp alpine air, frost-laced valleys, and snow-dusted peaks that shimmer in the morning light. It’s a season of quiet magic, best experienced from the warm comfort of your train seat as the world drifts by.
If you’ve always dreamed of doing it—this is the moment.
Winter is calling. Answer it by rail.
Terms and Conditions
Terms: Minimum of one adult must be travelling with child • Child fare is $25 each way and available for Scenic Class only (excludes Scenic Plus) • Valid for new bookings made between 20 July 2025 and 4 October 2025 only • Valid for travel between 20 September 2025 and 5 October 2025 • Offer may be withdrawn at any time • Normal fare conditions apply • Not available in conjunction with any other offer • Subject to availability
Terms: Proof of residence must be shown at check in • Up to $50 per person will be deducted from cost at check out • Available for Scenic Class and Scenic Plus • Valid for new bookings made between 30 June 2025 and 28 July 2025 only • Valid for travel between 1 July 2025 and 29 July 2025 • Offer may be withdrawn at any time • Normal fare conditions apply • Not available in conjunction with any other offer • Subject to availability
Terms: Proof of residence must be shown at check in • Up to $50 per person will be deducted from cost at check out • Available for Scenic Class and Scenic Plus • Valid for new bookings made between 16 June May 2025 and 30th July 2025 only • Valid for travel between 1 July 2025 and 31 July 2025 • Offer may be withdrawn at any time • Normal fare conditions apply • Not available in conjunction with any other offer • Subject to availability
Terms: Entry requires a comment on the official competition post and sign-up to the GJNZ event newsletter • Open to NZ residents aged 18+ • One entry per person • Prize includes 2 tickets to the 30 August 2025 High Tea Train departing Christchurch • Travel to/from departure point not included • Entries close 11:59 pm, 10 August 2025 • Winner drawn at random on 11 August 2025 and notified via email • Winner must respond within 48 hours or prize will be redrawn • Prize is not transferable or redeemable for cash • Must be used for the 30 August 2025 departure • By entering, participants agree to be added to the GJNZ event mailing list • Competition may be modified or withdrawn at any time • Subject to availability • Standard conditions of carriage apply