You'll love this tour
Experience the best of Aotearoa in one seamless journey with Great Journeys New Zealand from vibrant Auckland to alpine Queenstown.
It’s an easy, immersive way to see both islands without the stress of planning. Just sit back, take it all in, and let the landscapes do their thing.
With an expert tour director guiding the way, every day brings a new story, a new view, and that “only in New Zealand” feeling you'll love.
Highlights
- Encounter the volcanic peaks of Middle Earth in Tongariro National Park
- Witness the engineering marvels of Raurimu Spiral and Otira Tunnel
- Whales, dolphins, and sea life – spend a day with wildlife by the ocean in Kaikōura
- Uncover the home of the sacred pounamu,
- See the mesmerising blue lakes and ancient forests on the West Coast
- Discover Haast Pass on a unique Kiwi-style road trip adventure
- Be captivated by the storytelling of your tour director throughout your great journey
What's included
Activities
- Experienced tour director
- Te Papa Museum introduction tour
- Cook Strait ferry crossing
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes walk
- West Coast Tree Top walk
- Three world-famous scenic train journeys
- Free time and optional excursions to personalise your holiday
*Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season of departure.
Transport
- Northern Explorer scenic train
- Cook Strait ferry crossing
- Coastal Pacific scenic train
- TranzAlpine scenic train
- Private coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage
Meals
- 14 Breakfasts
- 5 Dinners
- 4 Meals on the train
Accommodation
- 3 - 4 Star Hotel (14 nights)
- Twin share
- Single upgrade available
Minimum age:
- 16 years and over
- Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Group size
- Maximum of 35 people
What's included
Activities
- Discover Middle Earth's volcanic peaks in Tongariro National Park
- Witness the engineering marvels of Raurimu Spiral and Otira Tunnel
- Spend a day with whales, dolphins and sea life in Kaikōura
- Uncover the home of the sacred pounamu
- See mesmerising blue lakes and ancient forests on the West Coast
- Discover Haast Pass on a unique Kiwi-style road trip
- Enjoy the storytelling of your tour director
Transport
- Northern Explorer scenic train
- Cook Strait ferry crossing
- Coastal Pacific scenic train
- TranzAlpine scenic train
- Private Coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage
- Travel northbound: Queenstown to Auckland tours available
Meals
- 14 Breakfasts
- 5 Dinners
- 4 Meals on the train
Accommodation
- 3 - 4 Star Hotel (14 nights)
- Twin share
- Single upgrade available
Minimum age:
- 16 years and over
- Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Group size
- Maximum of 35 people
We got to see so much of New Zealand on this trip! The food and the service on the train was impeccable
- Wayne and Helen | USA
Welcome to Queenstown
Kia ora
Welcome to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital! Queenstown is known for its dramatic mountain ranges, nearby vineyards, restaurants, and Lake Wakatipu.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your tour director, head out and explore all that Queenstown has to offer.
Explore the beach front, indulge in some retail therapy, and explore the beautiful rose gardens. Your journey will officially begin as you join your fellow travelers and tour director at this evening’s welcome reception.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Queenstown)
Meals included
A welcome drink is included in tonight's reception
Activities
Welcome reception
Explore Queenstown
Enjoy a free day to explore everything Queenstown has to offer. Today we highly recommend you join an excursion to the 8th Wonder of the World - it truly is a remarkable experience.
Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is a scenic escape approximately three hours from Queenstown. The natural landscape will engulf you as you waltz through plunging valleys and towering peaks. Take this encounter to the next level by booking a return visit by plane and soar like the Piopio (ancient bird) back to Queenstown.
Whether you’ve decided to hop aboard the iconic steamship the TSS Earnslaw to cruise on Lake Wakatipu, or marvel at the power of ancient roaring rivers - tonight you have the evening to indulge in Queenstown's exciting nightlife. Sip cocktails and indulge in the sparkling views across the lake.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Queenstown)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Exploring the South
Today you'll be exploring the mountainous Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey of about five hours to Franz Josef will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. Marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and glaciers as your tour director guides you between local hidden gems. Stop in unique locations only the locals tend to stop at.
Tonight, is a free evening to experience Franz Josef. Schedule an amazing helicopter flight to the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, go on nature walk or tap into some natural tranquility at the local hot pools.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
Scenic coach journey through Haast Pass with stops along the way
Explore the West Coast
Franz Josef Glacier is quite special in that it survives in coastal rainforest temperatures. Before you head off up the coast, why not set off on a short nature walk? No matter which one you choose, you'll get a fantastic view of the vast valley and maybe even a sneak peak of Franz Josef Glacier itself.
Aboard the private coach, you'll journey further along the coastline, reaching the TreeTop Walkway. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees of course.
This evening, you'll have free time to explore the beach at your leisure.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
West Coast Treetop Walkway & Cafe
The TranzAlpine scenic train
Before you escape into the Southern Alps aboard the world-famous TranzAlpine scenic train, a special excursion is beckoning - the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Here you will explore curious limestone formations and blowholes before joining the scenic journey to Christchurch at the Greymouth Railway Station.
Comfortably resting in plush, reclined seats, you will be surrounded by panoramic views. Start the journey by passing through the engineering marvel of the Otira Tunnel before emerging into a new landscape. Enjoy traversing through the Great Divide before a brief photo opportunity at Arthur’s Pass. As you soar on the edges of the ice fed Waimakariri River, you’ll see epic vistas in all directions while breathing fresh mountain air in the open carriage.
Just a few hours later, you'll arrive into 'The Garden City'.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Christchurch)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
Punakaiki Pancake Rock excursion
TranzAlpine scenic train experience
Explore Christchurch
Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is rebuilding itself into a multi-cultural haven.
Today you are free to explore the museums, Riverside Markets, Punting on the Avon, Gondola and botanical gardens. There is also a multitude of delicious cafes tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love.
This evening you will re-join your fellow travelers for a special dinner at one of Christchurch's impeccable restaurants.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Christchurch)
Meals included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Hop-on Hop-off tram
Group dinner
The Coastal Pacific Train to Kaikōura
Your next train journey departs Christchurch on route to Kaikōura. Enjoy breakfast on board as the smell of aromatic coffee dances through the carriages. In a few short hours, you will step foot into marine wildlife paradise.
Kaikōura has a range of exciting activities to choose from. Will you seek the whale watching, albatross, or dolphin encounter, or simply peruse the local artisan and gift shops? The rest of the day is yours to explore.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
Coastal Pacific scenic train experience
The Coastal Pacific train to Marlborough
After breakfast, your tour director will guide you back to the Kaikōura Railway Station to board the Coastal Pacific train for the next leg of your journey.
Relax and let the train glide you across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks.
This afternoon you'll arrive into your final South Island destination. Soak up the views and maybe even join a wine tour to enjoy delicious wine amongst the vines. Listen to passionate wine makers describe the history and processes of these flavorful grapes. The evening is free for you to explore.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
Coastal Pacific scenic train experience
Crossing Cook Strait
This morning you'll say good-bye to the South Island as you sail towards the capital. Crossing Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry, the South Island shores will slowly disappear as you enjoy a hearty seafaring lunch onboard.
Spoiled with harbour views, admire the coastal paradise as you glide through the scenic Queen Charlotte Sound and arrive into Wellington. Step off the Interislander ferry and start your North Island adventure by exploring Wellington city.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Activities
Interislander ferry
Explore Wellington
The perfect day does exist – and it includes exploring Wellington!.
Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining a Te Papa introduction tour and then head off to explore Cuba Street’s cafes, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary is just around the corner where you can surround yourself by native birdlife and regenerating forest. You won’t get bored with the plethora of activities on offer. From coffee, culture, historic buildings botanic gardens and more, the list goes on.
If you need any suggestions or recommendations, just reach out to your helpful tour director or our Travel Centre to pre-book an experience.
Dinner awaits as you join your fellow travelers once again to tell them about the exciting places you have discovered.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Te Papa Museum introduction tour
Group dinner
The Northern Explorer scenic train
Today you’ll be heading north aboard the Northern Explorer train to explore Tongariro National Park. Sit back and relax while the smooth train travels along the Kāpiti Coast. You won’t want to get too comfortable though; dramatic rivers, gorges and ravines are just around the bend. Stretch your legs and explore the open-air carriage to get the best view of the fantastic scenery.
Upon arrival into the national park, the afternoon is free for you to experience all the outdoor activities Ohakune has to offer.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Ohakune)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Northern Explorer scenic train experience
Discover Tongariro National Park
Today is free for you to discover one of Ohakune’s exciting excursions. Choose from the many optional activities on offer and personalise your perfect holiday. Perhaps you will hop aboard a historical rail cart journey or join a horse trekking experience that takes you along expansive hills, mountains, rivers and into the native bush.
If you're after an active day, why not explore Ohakune’s historical cycle trail? Rent e-bikes and discover old viaducts, tunnels, old settlers’ camps and reclaimed native forests along the Old Coach Road!
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Ohakune)
Meals included
Breakfast
The Northern Explorer scenic train
After a charming morning exploring the local shops and cafés of Ohakune, you will once again board the Northern Explorer train heading north to Auckland.
Along the way you'll wind down the historic Raurimu Spiral and traverse the Central Plateau with its three iconic volcanic mountains dominating the desert plains of Tongariro National Park. Soar over the icy mountain streams of Ruapehu and traverse into the Waikato, famous for its dairy farming and green pastures.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Auckland)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities Included
Northern Explorer scenic train experience
Island and winery hopping
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an indulgent day out on Waiheke Island.
Enjoy the freedom of hopping on and off as you please with your included ferry and bus tickets, departing hourly from the Downtown Ferry Terminal. Explore the picturesque Waiheke Island at your leisure, with buses ready to whisk you away to the next scenic spot half-hourly from the island's ferry terminal.
After a day of sipping and sightseeing, choose any return ferry back to Auckland, ensuring you're on time for a memorable farewell dinner with your guide at one of Auckland's renowned restaurants.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Auckland)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Waiheke Hop-on Hop-off wine & dine
Farewell dinner
Departing Auckland
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers.
Not ready to leave Auckland? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Explore Auckland
Kia ora
Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand’s City of Sails! Auckland is known for its multicultural hub of food, music, arts, and culture.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your tour director, head out and explore all that Auckland has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to visit the Sky Tower or go shopping along bustling Queen Street. You may even fancy a drink in one of the charming bars or eateries of Vulcan Lane.
Your tour officially begins this evening, as you join your fellow travellers and tour director this evening for a welcome reception.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Welcome dinner and drink
Activities
Welcome reception
The Northern Explorer scenic train
Today, you will marvel at rural New Zealand’s lush landscapes from the comfort of your seat aboard the Northern Explorer scenic train. From the green pastures of the Waikato to the icy mountain streams of Ruapehu, you won’t want to miss a moment. If you are interested in culture and history, be sure to listen to the audio commentary as you cross historic viaducts and traverse up the Raurimu Spiral, an engineering marvel. This experience is one like no other.
At the base of this geological wonder is Ohakune, 'the carrot capital of New Zealand', where you’ll stay the next two nights to experience your chosen adventure.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Ohakune)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
Northern Explorer Scenic train experience
Mini excursion to view expansive views across the volcanic landscape
Discover Tongariro National Park
Today is free for you to discover one of the region's many exciting excursions. Choose from the optional activities on offer and personalise your perfect holiday. Perhaps you will enjoy a hot tub soak, or a meander along the lazy river.
If you're after an active day, why not explore Ohakune’s historical cycle trail? Rent e-bikes and discover old viaducts, tunnels, old settlers’ camps and reclaimed native forests along the Old Coach Road!
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Ohakune)
Meals included
Breakfast
The Northern Explorer scenic train
After breakfast, we begin our day by travelling to Mt Ruapehu. You won't want to leave this mini excursion to Middle Earth without a panoramic photo in hand!
Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, you will wave goodbye to this UNESCO World Heritage Site as you settle into your uber-comfortable seat. Don’t get too comfortable though; dramatic rivers, gorges, and ravines are just around the bend! Stretch your legs and explore the open-air carriage to acquire the best views from the train.
As you glide through rich green farmland and past a dramatic coastline, indulge in afternoon tea while drinking in the views. All too soon the train will arrive into Wellington leaving the picturesque Porirua Harbour behind you. Welcome to New Zealand’s capital city.
Arriving at Wellington Railway Station, you are just a stone’s throw from downtown, the Beehive, and Parliament Buildings. Welcome to New Zealand’s Capital City. You won't want to waste a moment of time after checking into the hotel - your evening is free to explore this award-winning cultural and culinary capital from Queen's Wharf to Cuba Street and beyond.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals included
Breakfast, Afternoon tea aboard the train
Activities
Mini excursion to view expansive volcanic views across the North Island
Northern Explorer scenic train experience
Explore Wellington
The perfect day does exist – and it includes exploring Wellington.
Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining an included tour at Te Papa Museum and then head off to explore Cuba Street’s cafés, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Surround yourself by native birdlife and regenerating forest at Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary. You won’t get bored with the plethora of activities on offer. From coffee, culture, historic buildings to botanic gardens and much more…the list goes on.
If you need any suggestions or recommendations, just reach out to your helpful tour director or our Travel Centre to pre-book an experience.
Enjoy dinner tonight with your fellow travellers and tour director.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals included
Breakfast
Dinner
Activities
Introduction tour at Te Papa Museum
Group dinner
Crossing Cook Strait
This morning you will say poroporoaki ki te motu raki (good-bye to the North Island) as you sail to the South Island, crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry. As the shores of the North Island slowly disappear, enjoy a hearty seafaring breakfast on board.
Around midday, you will be spoiled with captivating harbour views as you enter the Queen Charlotte Sound. Admire the beauty of this coastal paradise as you arrive at the gateway of the South Island, Picton. Step off the Interislander ferry and experience Marlborough.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
Interislander ferry
The Coastal Pacific scenic train
The morning is yours to explore. Meander through the local craft stores and coastal walks in Picton, or perhaps discover the Omaka Aviation Museum in Blenheim. Enjoy the waterfront cafés before boarding the Coastal Pacific train for another highlight rail journey through the Marlborough Wine Region.
Today you will be travelling to Kaikōura. Relax and let the train glide you across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks!
Once in Kaikōura, the evening will be yours to enjoy some iconic kai moana (seafood) at one of the quaint restaurants.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
Coastal Pacific scenic train experience
Explore Kaikōura
Today will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will have the opportunity to go whale watching.
Enjoy today’s optional thrill of an up-close encounter with the world's largest-toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale who live in the waters of Kaikōura year-round.
Want to get an aerial experience of the wildlife? Why not request a plane ride to capture the true grandeur of it all.
Whether you have decided to go whale watching or swimming with the dolphins and seals, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the hub of the action on the main street to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips. Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops.
In the late afternoon, your journey will continue, once again, on the Coastal Pacific train en route to Christchurch, or “The Garden City”. The spectacular scenery won’t cease to amaze as you journey south through the rolling hills and extensive plains. Enjoy the relaxing journey with a glass of wine in hand.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Christchurch)
Meals included
Breakfast, Dinner on train
Activities
Coastal Pacific scenic train experience
Explore Christchurch
Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican ‘gothic revival’ architectural influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is rebuilding itself as a multicultural haven. So, without further delay, jump on the historic tram to learn the history, tales, and culture of Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Enjoy your free time as you explore the Arts Centre, Quake City Museum, Christchurch Art Gallery, and Botanical Gardens. Ride on the city tram to uncover Christchurch's great history, or relax as you punt on the Avon River. There is also a multitude of delicious cafés tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love. If you are in the mood for something different, set off for Akaroa, an ‘incroyable’ French coastal settlement just an hour and half from the city centre.
Dinner awaits as you join your fellow travellers once again to tell them about the exciting places you have discovered.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (2 nights in Christchurch)
Meals included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Christchurch Tram city tour
Group dinner
The TranzAlpine scenic train
The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine scenic train journey - through the Southern Alps, emerging in the West Coast.
On this fantastic escape, you will see epic vistas, soar on the edges of the ice fed Waimakariri River, traverse through the Great Divide, and experience ever-changing landscapes. The natural scenery isn’t the only marvel, though. The TranzAlpine passes through the Ōtira Tunnel, a true engineering marvel of 100 years!
Once you arrive at the West Coast, a private coach will take you even further off the beaten track to Punakaiki, where you will explore curious limestone rock formations and blowholes.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
TranzAlpine scenic train experience
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks excursion
Explore the West Coast
This morning you’ll start your West Coast adventure by visiting one of the South Island’s most popular activities– the West Coast Tree Top Walk. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees.
After your sky-high experience, continue south into glacier country. Franz Josef Glacier is quite special in that it survives in the warm coastal rainforest temperatures. With a short walk to a viewpoint, you'll get a fantastic view of the vast valley, as well as a sneak peak of Franz Josef Glacier itself. If you would prefer to get up close, we recommend booking an optional helicopter flight. This will ensure you are getting the best possible view of this natural wonder.
After your glacial experience and checking into the hotel, you’ll have some free time to enjoy Franz Josef town. Indulge in a helicopter flight, nature walk or tap into some natural tranquility at the local hot pools.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
West Coast Tree Top Walk
Short nature walk to glacier viewing point
Exploring the South
Today you will be exploring the mountainous Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey to Queenstown will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. Marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and stunning glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems.
Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore a local fruit hotspot before exploring the cobblestone streets of the historic goldmining settlement of Arrowtown.
After an exciting plunge into the history of this gold rush village, you will arrive in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (3 nights in Queenstown)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
Scenic coach journey through Haast Pass with stops along the way
Haast Visitors Centre and Arrowtown visit
Explore Queenstown
Enjoy a free day to explore everything Queenstown has to offer.
Today, we highly recommend you join an excursion to the 8th Wonder of the World – it truly is a remarkable experience. Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is a scenic escape approximately three hours from Queenstown. The natural landscape will engulf you as you waltz through plunging valleys and towering peaks.
Take this encounter to the next level by booking a return visit by plane and soar like the Piopio (ancient bird) back to Queenstown.
Whether you’ve decided to hop aboard the steamship lake cruise on the iconic TSS Earnslaw, or marvel at the power of ancient roaring rivers – tonight you have a free evening to indulge in Queenstown's exciting nightlife. Sip cocktails and indulge in the sparkling views of Lake Wakatipu.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (3 nights in Queenstown)
Meals included
Breakfast
The close to an adventure of a lifetime
Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active or relaxed as you’d like. Whether it’s exploring Walter Peak on a horse trekking adventure, joining the historic steamship across Lake Wakatipu or sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses.
This evening is your ‘final hurrah’ as you enjoy a farewell dinner. This is the perfect time to reminisce and share photos and phone numbers with your new friends.
Accommodation
3 - 4 star accommodation (3 nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Farewell dinner
Departing Queenstown
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers.
Not ready to leave Queenstown? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.
Meals
Breakfast
Add more to your tour
There are dozens of optional activities you can enjoy on our New Zealand highlights tour, but these are our top four must-do activities:
Available dates
Product Code: CAQ
Our Classic New Zealand highlights tour departs on the following dates. To book your place, either call us on 0800 872 467 (+64 4 495 0775) or click the Book Now button and complete the enquiry form. You can choose to pay 20% and then pay the balance 66 days before departure.
Start Auckland
13 MAR 2026
days
15
Finish Queenstown
27 MAR 2026
NZ$
9749
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
27 MAR 2026
days
15
Finish Queenstown
10 APR 2026
NZ$
9749
per person
twin/share
Start Queenstown
19 APR 2026
days
15
Finish Auckland
3 MAY 2026
NZ$
9749
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
11 SEPT 2026
days
15
Finish Queenstown
25 SEPT 2026
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
25 SEPT 2026
days
15
Finish Queenstown
9 OCT 2026
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
9 OCT 2026
days
15
Finish Queenstown
23 OCT 2026
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
30 OCT 2026
days
15
Finish Queenstown
13 NOV 2026
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
13 NOV 2026
days
15
Finish Queenstown
27 NOV 2026
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
20 NOV 2026
days
15
Finish Queenstown
4 DEC 2026
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
4 DEC 2026
days
15
Finish Queenstown
18 DEC 2026
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
11 DEC 2026
days
15
Finish Queenstown
25 DEC 2026
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
22 JAN 2027
days
15
Finish Queenstown
5 FEB 2027
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
29 JAN 2027
days
15
Finish Queenstown
12 FEB 2027
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
12 FEB 2027
days
15
Finish Queenstown
26 FEB 2027
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
19 FEB 2027
days
15
Finish Queenstown
5 MAR 2027
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
5 MAR 2027
days
15
Finish Queenstown
19 MAR 2027
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
12 MAR 2027
days
15
Finish Queenstown
26 MAR 2027
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
2 APR 2027
days
15
Finish Queenstown
16 APR 2027
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
23 APR 2027
days
15
Finish Queenstown
7 MAY 2027
NZ$
9999
per person
twin/share
Solo Traveller Options
Guaranteed share: If you are a solo traveller, you can choose the guaranteed Share option, and we will match you with another solo traveller of the same gender in a twin-bedded room. If we can't match you with another solo traveller, we will cover the Single Supplement cost.
Single supplement: If you are a Solo Traveller and would like a room to yourself, you can select to pay the Single Supplement when confirming your booking.
Symbol Key
This tour date is guaranteed to depart
Single supplement available
Hurry! This tour is either almost sold out or close to departure
Northbound Tour: This tour travels from South to North
Important Information
Tales from the tours
Get the inside story by travelling with us from Auckland to Queenstown aboard one of our New Zealand rail tours in our “Tales from the tours” blog series!
FAQs
The Classic Auckland to Queenstown Tour is a 15-day fully guided New Zealand highlights tour combining scenic trains, a Cook Strait ferry crossing, coach travel and free time.
- Te Papa Museum introduction tour
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes Walk
- West Coast Tree Top Walk
- Queenstown free time
- Expert tour director
- Small group (max 35)
- No self-drive
- Three iconic rail journeys
- Balanced guided and free time
This guided experience runs for 15 days across both the North and South Islands.
The Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine scenic trains, plus the Cook Strait ferry crossing.
Some of the key highlights below, see the itinerary for all inclusions -
Optional excursions available.
Starts in Auckland and finishes in Queenstown. Northbound departures are also available.
Travellers aged 16+ (under 18 with adult) wanting a relaxed, guided New Zealand rail holiday without self-driving.
14 breakfasts, 4 dinners, 4 onboard meals and 14 nights in 3–4 star hotels (twin share).
Seasonal departures from September through April (2026 and 2027 seasons).
Yes, several free days allow optional activities.
Any questions?
Whether it's pricing, availability, future dates, tour options or extended itineraries, our super-friendly and knowledgeable New Zealand travel specialists are here to help.
Our Travel Centre are on hand to answer your questions and help you build your perfect New Zealand holiday.
Give us a call or contact us online; we can't wait to hear from you.