Explore New Zealand’s bustling cities and quaint towns in Auckland, Ohakune, Wellington, and Christchurch. Immerse yourself in history, culture, and geology as you travel off the beaten track from coast to coast.
Highlights
- Learn about the geological landscape of the North Island Volcanic Plateau
- Marvel at the mesmerising coastal views of the Kapiti Coast
- Discover the sandstone cliffs of the Rangatikei River Gorge
- Sail across the scenic Cook Strait
- Whales, dolphins, and sea life – spend a day by the ocean in Kaikōura
- Let your captivating Tour Director guide you on this great journey
Travel Northbound: Christchurch to Auckland Tours Available
You'll love this tour
This is the perfect option for those who enjoy free time to create their own adventure while having the structure of a guided expert. Meet like-minded travellers and share this journey of a lifetime on a truly magnificent expedition.
Inclusions
- Experienced Tour Director
- Te Papa Museum Introduction Tour
- Christchurch City Tours
- World-Famous Scenic Train Journeys
- Cook Strait Ferry Crossing
- Free time and optional excursions to personalise your holiday
*Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season of departure.
What you get along the way
Transportation
- Northern Explorer Train
- Interislander Ferry journey across the Cook Strait
- Coastal Pacific Train
- Private Coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage
Meals
- 9 Breakfasts
- 3 Dinners
- 3 Meals on the train
Accommodation
- 3 - 4 Star Hotel (9 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.
Itinerary
Things to do...
There are dozens of activities you can enjoy on your Cities & Coastal Highlights Tour, but these are our top four must-do activities:
Included journeys
Our Classic Cities and Coastal Highlights Tour between Auckland and Christchurch includes three of the greatest journeys in New Zealand - the Northern Explorer train, Interislander Cook Strait crossing and Coastal Pacific train.
Journey highlights
On our Classic Cities & Coastal Highlights Tour, you will see it all, travelling aboard all four of our world-famous journeys.
Boarding in Auckland, your first few days include a series of journeys aboard our Northern Explorer train travelling through the volcanic heart of the North Island.
Cruising between islands, the Interislander ferry plots 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 Kaikoura aboard the Coastal Pacific train.
Your final journey is again aboard the Coastal Pacific train, meandering alongside secluded beaches on your way to Christchurch.
Available Dates
Product Code: CAC
Our Classic Cities & Coastal 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
5 SEPT 2025
days
10
Finish Christchurch
14 SEPT 2025
NZ$
5749
per person
twin/share


Start Auckland
12 SEPT 2025
days
10
Finish Christchurch
21 SEPT 2025
NZ$
5749
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

Reverse Tour: This tour travels from South to North
Important Information
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!