- Scenic class experience
- Scenic plus experience
- Dedicated Scenic Plus hosts
Scenic train
Coastal Pacific train
Christchurch Picton
Journey between Christchurch and Picton on one of New Zealand's most spectacular rail experiences.
The Coastal Pacific winds along dramatic coastlines, through the renowned Kaikōura Coast, Marlborough's vineyard-filled valleys and the rolling Canterbury Plains, offering breathtaking views from start to finish.
Travel in either direction and explore Picton, Blenheim, Kaikōura and Christchurch along the way.
Timetable
The Christchurch to Picton train service runs northbound in the morning, while the returning Picton to Christchurch train runs southbound in the afternoon.
Currently the Coastal Pacific is taking it's winter rest, returning September 1st 2026.
Discover the onboard experience
Learn more about
Scenic comfort.
At the heart of our Scenic experiences, you'll find spacious carriages, panoramic windows and skylights. With tables set for four, along your journey you'll have the chance to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. As you traverse New Zealand's rugged terrain, our state-of-the-art premium carriage guarantees a smooth and comfortable adventure.
Upgrade to our Scenic Plus experience.
Scenic Plus takes our travel experience to a new level, providing a full-sensory exploration of New Zealand. It combines our award-winning Scenic carriages' panoramic viewing experience with storytelling and an inclusive dining menu from the regions you pass through, paired with local wines.
Let us entertain you.
Naturally engaging, our Scenic Plus hosts will ensure you are superbly catered for throughout the journey. From topping up your drink to explaining the origins of the grapes, pointing out unmissable landmarks to sharing the stories of our lands, our hosts will ensure you leave fulfilled in every sense. With our Scenic Plus experience, our hosts will ensure you feel completely relaxed and comfortable from the moment you arrive.
- Open air viewing carriages
- Scenic cafe
- Onboard infotainment and the Great Journeys New Zealand app
Open-air viewing carriages.
Step outside into the fresh air and take in uninterrupted panoramic views. The open-air viewing carriage offers a unique perspective, making it easy to capture unforgettable photos and immerse yourself in New Zealand's spectacular landscapes.
Scenic Café.
Enjoy a selection of light meals, snacks, hot and cold drinks, and local favourites from the onboard Scenic Café. It's the perfect place to relax and savour the journey while the scenery unfolds outside.
Onboard Infotainment & the Great Journeys New Zealand App.
Enhance your journey with the Great Journeys New Zealand app. Access GPS-triggered commentary, fascinating stories, points of interest, maps and travel information, all designed to help you discover more as you travel through New Zealand.
Upgrade to our Scenic Plus experience
Discover the flavours of the Pacific coast aboard the Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus experience, with a seasonal menu inspired by the regions and fresh local ingredients along the journey.
Scenic Plus dining
Imagine rolling across the Canterbury Plains aboard the Coastal Pacific, enjoying Eggs Benedict with potato-herb rosti and free-range bacon, or watching the Pacific Ocean drift by your window while savouring South Island smoked salmon, perfectly paired with a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.
These are just a taste of the seasonal dishes you'll enjoy with the Scenic Plus experience.
Scenic vs Scenic Plus
Discover our menu
Our menu is subject to seasonal change. Please advise us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
Find our Coastal Pacific railway stations
View our Coastal Pacific station page to find out more about each of our stations.
Get directions, parking information, and check-in requirements for each of our Coastal Pacific Railway Stations, from Picton to Christchurch.
Carbon Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate how much you could reduce your carbon emissions by travelling on the Coastal Pacific.
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