Discover off the beaten track locations and bustling urban centres by three world-famous scenic rail experiences. Be led by a New Zealand expert as you experience thrilling activities on this scenic adventure of a lifetime.
Highlights
- Option to visit Rotorua or Ohakune (selected departures)
- Encounter the volcanic peaks of Middle Earth in Tongariro National Park
- Experience a tea ceremony and Signature High Tea at Zealong Tea Estate, and the bioluminescent glowworm caves of Waitomo
- Escape on nautical adventures along Milford Sound, Queen Charlotte Sound and Lake Wakatipu
- Indulge in a sensory journey amidst fields of fragrant lavender and immerse yourself in
- Discover the iridescent beauty of paua pearls on a guided Paua Pearl Tour and sip your way through Marlborough's renowned vineyards
- Encounter playful dolphins in Kaikōura
- Embark on three world-class scenic train journeys, traversing breathtaking landscapes while dining in Scenic Plus and be captivated by the storytelling of your Tour Director along this great journey
- Cross the Cook Strait on a scenic ferry journey, linking the North and South Islands
You'll love this tour
This adventure is an enviable trip designed for those who want a stress-free, scenic journey like no other. Meet like-minded travellers while experiencing world-class activities in charming locations.
Inclusions
- Option to stay in Rotorua or Ohakune (selected departures)
- Experienced Tour Director
- Raglan Dinner Cruise
- Sanctuary Mountain Custom Wildlife Experience
- Zealong Tea Estate Tour, Tea Ceremony & Signature High Tea
- Waitomo Caves Glowworm Tour
- Lunch at Lauren's Lavender with time to explore
- Wellington City Tour
- Marlborough Wine Tour Custom Experience
- Paua Pearl Tour with Paua Tasting
- Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura
- Guided Pounamu Experience including Hokitika Gorge Walk
- Haast River Safari
- VIP West Coast Wildlife centre, guided walkthrough of Kiwi
- Milford Sound Day Tour and Cruise
- TSS Walter Peak buffet dinner with farm tour
- Three World-Class Scenic Train Journeys including Scenic Plus Dining Experience
- Cook Strait Ferry Crossing in Premium Plus Lounge
*Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season of departure.
What you get along the way
Transportation
- Northern Explorer Scenic Plus Train Journey
- Interislander Ferry journey across the Cook Strait
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus Train Journey
- TranzAlpine Scenic Plus Train Journey
- Private Coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage
Meals
- 16 Breakfasts
- 2 Lunches
- 7 Dinners
- 5 Meals on the train
Accommodation
- 4 to 5 Star Hotel (16 nights)
- Twin Share
- Single Upgrade Available
Minimum Age:
- 16 years and over
- Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Group Size
Maximum of 20 people.
Itinerary
Included activities
Our Signature New Zealand Up Close tour between Auckland and Queenstown includes New Zealand's must-do activities:
Marlborough Wine Tour
Get a taste of New Zealand's world-famous wine on a relaxing custom wine tour with Sounds Connection
Waitomo Glowworm caves
Enter an underground universe sparkling with starry glowworms.
Wellington City Introduction Tour
Your tour host will provide an intimate local view of our quaint little capital on a Wellington introduction tour.
Dolphin Encounter Kaikōura
Set out on an unforgettable Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura, where the ocean comes alive with the playful energy of wild dusky dolphins.
Laurens Lavender Farm
Indulge in lunch, followed by a walk amidst the fragrant lavender fields and a visit to the lavender shop.
Haast River Safari
Discover the natural wonder of the West Coast by enclosed speed-boat along the stunning Haast Pass.
TSS Earnslaw Dinner Cruise and Show
Voyage into the pristine Lake Wakatipu with its stunning mountain backdrop for a dinner cruise aboard TSS Earnslaw
Milford Sounds Day Tour
Explore the remote and breathtaking world made famous by Lord of the Rings
Included journeys
Our Signature Auckland to Queenstown tour includes four of the greatest journeys in New Zealand - the Northern Explorer, Interislander Cook Strait crossing, Coastal Pacific train, and TranzAlpine train.
Northern Explorer Scenic Plus
Traverse the volcanic plateau across soaring viaducts in luxury on the epic Northern Explorer Scenic Plus journey.
Interislander Cook Strait ferry
Cruise between islands on the iconic Interislander Cook Strait crossing
Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus
Travel between mountains and sea in luxury on the Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus journey.
TranzAlpine Scenic Plus
Ascend the stunning Southern Alps on our world-famous TranzAlpine journey, indulging in Scenic Plus.
Journey highlights
On our Signature New Zealand Up Close tour you will see it all, travelling between Auckland and Queenstown aboard all four of our world-famous journeys in style.
Boarding in Auckland, your first few days are aboard our Northern Explorer train travelling through the volcanic heart of the North Island. Prepare to do it in style and enjoy this Scenic Plus journey,
Cruising between islands, the Interislander journey takes a leisurely course around Wellington Harbour and through the magnificent Marlborough Sounds to Picton.
From Picton, you'll voyage through vineyards and along the Pacific Coast to Kaikōura and then Christchurch aboard the Coastal Pacific train. Every moment of your journey will be elevated in Scenic Plus, with complimentary beverages and dishes served to your seat inspired by the landscapes you'll be passing through.
Your final journey is aboard the TranzAlpine Scenic Plus train, traversing the Southern Alps on a breathtaking journey from east to West Coast.
Available Dates
Tour Code: SAQ
Our Signature New Zealand Up Close tour departs on the following dates. To book your spot, either call us on +64 3 341 2698 or click the Book Now button. You can choose to pay a 20% deposit and then pay the balance 66 days before departure.
Please note: The tour departing October 1, 2025 will journey by coach from Auckland to Hamilton (2hrs).
Start Auckland
1 OCT 2025
via Rotorua
17
days
Finish Queenstown
17 OCT 2025
NZ$
15299
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
29 OCT 2025
via Rotorua
17
days
Finish Queenstown
14 NOV 2025
NZ$
15299
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
5 NOV 2025
via Rotorua
17
days
Finish Queenstown
21 NOV 2025
NZ$
15299
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
12 NOV 2025
via Rotorua
17
days
Finish Queenstown
28 NOV 2025
NZ$
15299
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
3 DEC 2025
via Rotorua
17
days
Finish Queenstown
19 DEC 2025
NZ$
15299
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
28 JAN 2026
via Rotorua
17
days
Finish Queenstown
13 FEB 2026
NZ$
15299
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
11 FEB 2026
via Rotorua
17
days
Finish Queenstown
27 FEB 2026
NZ$
15299
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
4 MAR 2026
via Rotorua
17
days
Finish Queenstown
20 MAR 2026
NZ$
15299
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
11 MAR 2026
via Rotorua
17
days
Finish Queenstown
27 MAR 2026
NZ$
15299
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
25 MAR 2026
via Rotorua
17
days
Finish Queenstown
10 APR 2026
NZ$
15299
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
Important Information
Chosen a tour that takes you to Rotorua – the heart of Māori culture and adventure?
Rotorua is a place where nature’s wonders and rich Māori heritage come together in perfect harmony. Immerse yourself in Māori culture, experience the warmth of manaakitanga (hospitality), and explore the fascinating geothermal parks that make this region unique. Unwind with world-class spa and wellness therapies, or take a peaceful stroll through the lush Whakarewarewa Forest.
Known for its 18 stunning lakes and as a mountain biking paradise with over 200km of gold-level trails, Rotorua offers an adventure for every traveller.
As part of our signature New Zealand Up ClosS tour, you can choose between visiting Rotorua or Ohakune, allowing you to select the destination that best suits your interests.
Chosen a tour that takes you to Ohakune - New Zealand's 'Carrot Capital'?
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Ruapehu volcano, Ohakune is a charming alpine town that truly comes alive in every season. In winter, it’s a haven for skiers and snowboarders, while the warmer months showcase its renowned cycle trails and outdoor adventure opportunities.
As part of our Signature New Zealand Up Close tour, you can choose to visit either Ohakune or Rotorua. Whether you're seeking a winter wonderland or a summer escape, Ohakune offers something for every traveller.
Any questions?
Whether it's pricing, availability, future dates, tour options or extended itineraries, our super-friendly and knowledgeable Travel Centre team is on hand to answer your questions and help build your perfect New Zealand holiday.
Give us a call or contact us online, we can't wait to hear from you.
More tours to explore
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!
Part 1 | Auckland to Wellington
Join the beginning of the tour as we traverse the volcanic plateau en route from Auckland to Wellington
Part 2 | Wellington to Christchurch
Set sail on part two of our touring adventure as we meander from Wellington to Christchurch
Part 3 | Christchurch to Queenstown
Weave through the Southern Alps and along the West Coast from Christchurch to Queenstown on our final leg
