Join us on a mouthwatering rail journey through New Zealand's diverse culinary landscape. Taste your way through vineyards, indulge in gourmet dining, and immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences. From the delicate flavours of local cuisine to the depth of heritage in unique destinations, come aboard as we explore the essence of New Zealand through its food, wine, and culture.
Highlights
- Experience the rich heritage of Pounamu with a guided tour of Hokitika Gorge
- Explore the pristine eco-heritage of Okarito
- Navigate the untamed beauty of Haast River on a safari
- Indulge in wine tastings and gourmet delights at Ayrburn Winery, a culinary journey through Central Otago's vineyards.
- Embark on the world-famous TranzAlpine train, dining in Scenic Plus
You'll love this tour
This adventure is an enviable trip designed for food enthusiasts, wine lovers, and cultural explorers who seek a unique and immersive experience in New Zealand.
Inclusions
- Guided Pounamu Experience including Hokitika Gorge Walk
- Okarito Eco-heritage Tour Franz Josef
- Haast River Safari
- Ayrburn Winery Tastings & Lunch
- TranzAlpine Scenic Train Journey including Scenic Plus Dining Experience
- Cook Strait Ferry Crossing
Price per person - share twin
What you get along the way
Transportation
- TranzAlpine Scenic Train
- Private Coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage
Meals
- 5 Breakfasts
- 3 Lunches
- 2 Dinners
- 1 Scenic Plus Rail Dining Experience
Accommodation
- 4 to 4.5 Star Hotel (6 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
Welcome in Christchurch
Kia Ora!
Your unforgettable journey starts in Christchurch. Check-in to your hotel then enjoy a warm welcome from your tour guide. Dive into the experience, meeting your fellow travelers and exclusive tour guide.
Indulge in an included dinner at a renowned Chrictchurch restaurant, savoring culinary delights that reflect the vibrant flavors of New Zealand, promising a perfect end to an enriching day of exploration and cultural immersion.
Stay tuned as your guide unveils tomorrow's enchanting voyage across the South Island.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night in Christchurch)
Meals Included
Dinner
The TranzAlpine & Culture of the West Coast
Embark on a breathtaking journey through New Zealand's South Island. Prepare to be enchanted as you board the TranzAlpine train in the morning, enjoying the Scenic Plus package that treats you to a sumptuous breakfast and lunch against the backdrop of unparalleled vistas.
Your adventure continues as the TranzAlpine pulls into Greymouth. Here, your transport awaits to whisk you away to Hokitika, where a truly authentic experience awaits. Join Rachel from Hokitika Scenic Tours and a local Iwi member for an immersive pounamu (jade) experience, followed by a guided walk around the mesmerizing Hokitika Gorge loop track, led by Rachel and the Iwi.
Mid afternoon, bid farewell to Hokitika as coaches depart for Franz Josef, where your accommodation awaits. After checking in, indulge in a delicious dinner included at the hotel, rounding off a day filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Franz Josef)
Meals Included
Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Activities
TranzAlpine Scenic Plus
West Coast Cultural Experience
Franz Josef Experience
Embark on a day of wonder and exploration of the south, beginning with breakfast included at your hotel. As the morning unfolds, seize the opportunity to elevate your experience with an optional helicopter tour, treating yourself to breathtaking aerial views of Franz Josef and its surrounding landscapes.
Set off on a scenic coach journey from Franz Josef to the picturesque village of Okarito. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Okarito with the Okarito Heritage EcoTour. This enriching experience combines a captivating walking tour with a tranquil lagoon boat tour, offering insights into the area's rich history and biodiversity. Indulge in a delicious lunch featuring local delicacies, included as part of your tour.
With approximately two hours of free time, marvel at the beauty of Okarito before returning to Franz Josef, where the afternoon beckons with a myriad of optional activities. Whether you choose to relax and unwind or embark on further adventures, the choice is yours to make the most of your time in this stunning region.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Franz Josef)
Meals Included
Breakfast, lunch.
Activities
Okarito Heritage Tour
A Journey along the West Coast
Enjoy breakfast included at your hotel as anticipation mounts for your adventure ahead.
Bid farewell to Franz Josef as you set off for the unforgettable Haast River Safari. Immerse yourself in the captivating Haast River Safari Experience, a journey through pristine wilderness and exhilarating rapids that promises to leave you in awe.
During your safari, make a stop at the charming Fruit Emporium, where you can indulge in locally sourced delights and refreshments. Please note that there will be no stop at Arrowtown today, as this enchanting destination will be covered on the following day of your itinerary.
As your safari concludes, anticipation builds as you arrive in the vibrant town of Queenstown, renowned for its stunning scenery and endless adventures. The evening is yours to savor at your leisure, perhaps exploring Queenstown's culinary scene or simply relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere.
You'll enjoy the luxurious Naumi The Dairy Hotel Queenstown, providing a perfect retreat after a day filled with excitement and discovery.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals Included
Breakfast, lunch.
Activities
Haast River Safari Experience
Queenstown & Arrowtown
Indulge in a leisurely morning as your day begins with a continental breakfast included at the Naumi Hotel, featuring a tempting spread of croissants, cold meats, and cereals, ensuring you start your day on a delicious note.
With the morning at your leisure, explore Queenstown at your own pace, immersing yourself in the array of optional activities this vibrant lakeside town has to offer.
Around noon, embark on a delightful journey with Ayrburn Arrowtown, as their coaches collect you from Naumi The Dairy Hotel. Prepare for a treat as you're transported to Ayrburn for a wine tasting experience paired with a buffet lunch. Following this culinary adventure, take some time to wander around the charming Arrowtown township, soaking in its quaint charm, before returning to Queenstown aboard the coach. This serves as a farewell function, marking the end of your tour with memorable flavors and experiences.
As the day winds down, retreat to the lounge at Naumi The Dairy Hotel for happy hour. Enjoy complimentary drinks and canapés, raising a toast to the adventures of the tour and the memories made.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals Included
Breakfast, lunch.
Activities
Ayrburn Arrowtown
Queenstown Farewell
As your journey ends, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel letting you relish those last moments of your stay.
It's time to say goodbye as you check out of the hotel. As you prepare to depart, rest assured that your departure transfer is included, ensuring a seamless transition as you head towards your next destination.
Reflect on the memories created during your stay, carrying with you the experiences and adventures that have enriched your journey.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included activities
Our Signature Inspirational Alps tour between Christchurch and Queenstown includes New Zealand's must-do activities:
Included journeys
Our Signature Inspirational Alps tour includes one of the greatest journeys in New Zealand - the world-famous TranzAlpine.
Journey highlights
The journey is part of the destination on our tours, and our Scenic trains are the ultimate way to see New Zealand.
On our Signature Epicurean Alpine Odyssey tour, your journey begins aboard the world-famous TranzAlpine, traversing the rugged cliffs of the Waimakariri River gorge on your ascent into the Southern Alps.
From Arthur's Pass, you will descend through the century-old Otira tunnel that stretches 8.5km beneath the great divide. On the far side, you'll wind through the lush green scenery of West Coast on your way past Lake Brunner and onto Greymouth.
Available Dates
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 and complete the enquiry form. You can choose to pay a 20% deposit and then pay the balance 66 days before departure.
Start Christchurch
9 MAR 2025
days
6
Finish Queenstown
14 MAR 2025
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
28 MAR 2025
days
6
Finish Queenstown
2 APR 2025
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
6 APR 2025
days
6
Finish Queenstown
11 APR 2025
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
28 NOV 2025
days
6
Finish Queenstown
3 DEC 2025
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
19 DEC 2025
days
6
Finish Queenstown
24 DEC 2025
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
13 MAR 2026
days
6
Finish Queenstown
18 MAR 2026
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
3 APR 2026
days
6
Finish Queenstown
8 APR 2026
NZ$
6299
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
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.
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