Join us on this scenic guided tour through the heart and soul of New Zealand. Discover off the beaten track locations and bustling urban centres by three world-famous scenic rail experiences.
Highlights
- Encounter the volcanic peaks of Middle Earth in Tongariro National Park
- Witness the engineering marvels of Raurimu Spiral and Otira Tunnel
- Sip world-class wine amongst the vines in Marlborough
- Whales, dolphins, and sea life – spend a day with wildlife by the ocean in Kaikōura
- Uncover the home of the sacred pounamu, 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
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
- Wellington and Christchurch City Tours
- Cook Strait Ferry Crossing
- Marlborough Wine Experience
- 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
What you get along the way
Transportation
- 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
- 4 Dinners
- 4 Meals on the train
Accommodation
- 3.5 - 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.
Itinerary
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train Experience
- Mini excursion to view expansive views across the volcanic landscape
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train
- Mini excursion to view expansive volcanic views across the North Island
- Wellington City Introduction Tour
- Group Dinner
- Interislander Ferry
- Marlborough Wine Tour
- Christchurch Tram City Tour
- Group Dinner
- TranzAlpine Scenic Journey
- Punakaiki Pancake Rock Excursion
- West Coast Tree Top Walk
- Short Nature Walk to Glacier Viewing Point
- Scenic coach journey through Haast Pass with stops along the way
- Haast Visitors Centre, Mrs Jones' Fruit Stall and Arrowtown Visit
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
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
A welcome drink is included in tonight's reception.
Activities
Welcome Reception
The Northern Explorer Scenic Train
A Scenic Journey to Ohakune
Today, you will marvel at rural New Zealand’s lush landscapes from the comfort of your seat onboard the Northern Explorer scenic train journey. 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
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Ohakune)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
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
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Ohakune)
Meals Included
Breakfast
The Northern Explorer Scenic Train
After breakfast, we begin our day by travelling from National Park 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.
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
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Afternoon tea aboard the train
Activities
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 our Wellington City introduction tour and then head off to explore Cuba Street’s cafes, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Get cultured at Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum, or visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary to 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 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
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Crossing the Cook Strait
Adventure to the South - Haere ra to Te Ika a Maui
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 join your next world-class experience onboard a Marlborough Wine Tour!
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
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 into 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
3.5 - 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 Kaikoura 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
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Christchurch)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner on train
Activities
Coastal Pacific Scenic Train Journey
Explore Christchurch
Exploring The Garden City
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
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Christchurch)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
The TranzAlpine Scenic Train
The TranzAlpine Journey
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 Otira 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
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities Included
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 tranquillity at the local hot pools.
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities Included
Exploring the South
A Unique Kiwi Style Road Trip
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
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation (3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities Included
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 Sounds/ 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
3.5 - 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
3.5 - 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
Activities
Transfer to airport
Included activities
Our Classic Auckland to Queenstown tour provides the perfect balance of must-see activities and free time to explore. The following activities are included:
Recommended additional activities
There are dozens of optional activities you can enjoy on our New Zealand Highlights Tour, but these are our top four must-do activities:
Included journeys
Our Classic New Zealand Highlights Tour between Auckland and Queenstown includes all four of the greatest journeys in New Zealand - the Northern Explorer train, Interislander Cook Strait crossing, Coastal Pacific train and TranzAlpine train.
Journey highlights
On our Classic New Zealand Highlights Tour you will see it all, travelling between Auckland and Queenstown aboard all four of our world-famous journeys.
Boarding in Auckland, your first few days are aboard our Northern Explorer train travelling through the volcanic heart of the North Island.
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 Kaikoura and then Christchurch aboard the Coastal Pacific train.
Your final journey is aboard the TranzAlpine train, traversing the Southern Alps on a breathtaking journey from east to West Coast.
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
30 SEPT 2023
days
15
Finish Queenstown
14 OCT 2023
NZ$
8899
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
6 OCT 2023
days
15
Finish Queenstown
20 OCT 2023
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
24 NOV 2023
days
15
Finish Queenstown
8 DEC 2023
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
8 DEC 2023
days
15
Finish Queenstown
22 DEC 2023
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
23 FEB 2024
days
15
Finish Queenstown
8 MAR 2024
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
1 MAR 2024
days
15
Finish Queenstown
15 MAR 2024
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
22 MAR 2024
days
15
Finish Queenstown
5 APR 2024
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
5 APR 2024
days
15
Finish Queenstown
19 APR 2024
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
19 APR 2024
days
15
Finish Queenstown
3 MAY 2024
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
20 SEPT 2024
days
15
Finish Queenstown
4 OCT 2024
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
11 OCT 2024
days
15
Finish Queenstown
25 OCT 2024
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
13 DEC 2024
days
15
Finish Queenstown
27 DEC 2024
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
17 JAN 2025
days
15
Finish Queenstown
31 JAN 2025
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
7 FEB 2025
days
15
Finish Queenstown
21 FEB 2025
NZ$
8549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
28 MAR 2025
days
15
Finish Queenstown
11 APR 2025
NZ$
8549
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
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.
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