Join us on a mouthwatering rail journey along the South Island's coastal 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
- Discover the iridescent beauty of paua pearls on a guided Paua Pearl Tour
- Sip your way through Marlborough's renowned vineyards
- Encounter playful dolphins in Kaikōura
- Embark on the Coastal Pacific train, traversing breathtaking landscapes while dining in Scenic Plus
- 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 food enthusiasts, wine lovers, and cultural explorers who seek a unique and immersive experience in New Zealand.
Inclusions
- Beachcomber Cruises 'Mailboat' Tour
- Paua Pearl Tour with Paua Tasting
- Marlborough Wine Tour & Lunch
- Dolphin Encounter
- Christchurch Food Walking Tour
- Coastal Pacific Train Journey including Scenic Plus Dining Experience
- Cook Strait Ferry Crossing
Price per person - share twin
What you get along the way
Transportation
- Interislander Ferry journey across the Cook Strait
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
- Private Coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage
Meals
- 6 Breakfasts
- 3 Dinners
- 6 Lunches
- 1 Scenic Plus Rail Dining Experience
Accommodation
- 4 to 4.5 Star Hotel (5 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 Wellington
Kia Ora!
Your unforgettable journey starts in Wellington. 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 Wellington 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 to the South Island.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night in Wellington)
Meals Included
Dinner
Cook Strait & the Marlborough Sounds
As the sun begins to rise, gather in the lobby bright and early, ready to embark on a day of adventure. Our luxurious transfers will transport you to the Interislander ferry terminal, setting the stage for a scenic journey ahead.
Board the Interislander ferry, where the Premium Plus lounge awaits, offering a full buffet breakfast and complimentary bar service, ensuring a journey of indulgence and relaxation.
At midday, the Interislander docks in the picturesque town of Picton, marking the beginning of the next leg of your adventure in the South Island.
Embark on an unforgettable experience as you set sail on the Mailboat Cruise with Beachcomber Cruises, immersing yourself in the stunning scenery of the Marlborough Sounds. Indulge in a delightful packed lunch onboard as you soak in the beauty of the surroundings before arriving at Portage Resort.
As the day draws to a close, indulge in a culinary delight with a sumptuous three-course dinner included at Portage Resort, promising a perfect end to a day filled with unforgettable experiences and breathtaking vistas.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night in the Marlborough Sounds)
Meals Included
Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Activities
Interislander Premium Plus
Beachcomber Cruises Mailboat
Tasting, Dining & Wining in the Sounds
Awake to breakfast awaiting you at Portage Resort, with a view into the Kenepuru Sound setting the perfect tone for a day of culinary and scenic delights.
Let the adventure begin as Beachcomber Cruises arrives to whisk you away from Portage Resort.
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Paua Pearl Farm Tour, a journey filled with morning tea and Paua tastings.
On arrival back in Picton, embark on an unforgettable afternoon with Sounds Connection. Indulge in a gourmet experience as you journey through the renowned Marlborough region, savoring a three-course lunch menu at Allan Scott Wines Bistro, accompanied by a glass of wine with your main meal.
After lunch, the adventure continues with visits to two more wineries for included tastings, and a stop at the Makana Boutique Chocolate Factory, promising a sweet conclusion to your day.
After checking in to the your hotel, take the evening to savor the memories created, with no dinner included, allowing you the freedom to explore the delights of Picton at your leisure.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night in Picton)
Meals Included
Breakfast, morning tea, lunch.
Activities
Beachcomber Cruises Arapawa Paua Pearl Farm Tour
Sounds Connection Marlborough Wine Tour
Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus Experience & Kaikōura
Indulge in a free morning in Picton, allowing you to explore the charms of this coastal gem at your leisure, from strolls to seaside views. Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
Embark on a journey aboard the Coastal Pacific, where every moment is elevated in the Scenic Plus class. Delight in a light lunch complemented by beverages, followed by afternoon tea amidst breathtaking vistas.
It's late afternoon and train arrives in Kaikōura, where transfers await to take you to your hotel. Prepare for an evening of culinary delights as you indulge in an included dinner at a renowned Kaikoura restaurant, enjoying the flavors of the region.
Retreat to the comfort of your hotel in Kaikōura.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night in Kaikōura)
Meals Included
Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Activities
Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus
Kaikōura Dolphins & The Coastal Pacific
Wake up at your hotel, where breakfast awaits you. Energized and ready for adventure, set sail from Encounter Kaikōura on an enchanting dolphin viewing escapade, immersing yourself in the beauty of the marine world.
As noon approaches, return to Kaikōura, where the afternoon is yours to enjoy. Explore the charming streets and waterfront, indulging in a leisurely lunch at one of the local eateries (at your own expense), and discover the hidden gems of this coastal paradise.
Gather again for the next leg of your journey. Late afternoon, board the Coastal Pacific for the Scenic Plus experience, treating yourself to unparalleled vistas as you glide along the coastline. Revel in dinner and drinks, included with your Scenic Plus package, as you unwind and soak in the breathtaking scenery.
As the sun begins to set, arrive at Christchurch Station, where a coach awaits to transfer you to your accommodation in Christchurch, concluding a day filled with unforgettable moments and scenic wonders.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Christchurch)
Meals Included
Breakfast, dinner.
Activities
Dolphin Encounter
Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus
Christchurch City
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation in Christchurch. Fuel up for the adventures ahead as you prepare to delve into the vibrant culture of this charming city.
Join a cultural food walking tour of Christchurch, a journey blending history, storytelling, and tantalizing local tastings. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of flavors and traditions as you explore the city streets, guided by knowledgeable locals sharing their tales.
With the afternoon at your leisure, explore Christchurch at your own pace. Delve into the city's past at Quake City Museum or Ravenscar Museum, or opt for leisurely pursuits like punting along the Avon River or riding the iconic trams. For those seeking a bird's-eye view, ascend the Gondola for panoramic vistas of the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps.
For dinner, gather for a culinary delight at a renowned Christchurch restaurant with your tour group.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Christchurch)
Meals Included
Breakfast, dinner.
Activities
Walking Cultural Food Tour
Chrictchurch 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 Captivating Coast Tour between Wellington and Christchurch tour includes several of New Zealand's must-do activities:
Included journeys
Our Signature Wellington to Christchurch tour includes two of the greatest journeys in New Zealand - the Interislander Cook Strait crossing and the Coastal Pacific train.
Journey highlights
The journey is part of the destination on our tours, and our Scenic trains and ferries are the ultimate way to see New Zealand.
On our Signature Coastal Epicurean Experience tour, your journey will begin with a cruise by ferry through Wellington Harbour and across Cook Strait to the magnificent Marlborough Sounds.
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
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 Wellington
4 MAR 2025
days
7
Finish Christchurch
10 MAR 2025
NZ$
5299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
23 MAR 2025
days
7
Finish Christchurch
29 MAR 2025
NZ$
5299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
1 APR 2025
days
7
Finish Christchurch
7 APR 2025
NZ$
5299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
23 NOV 2025
days
7
Finish Christchurch
29 NOV 2025
NZ$
5299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
14 DEC 2025
days
7
Finish Christchurch
20 DEC 2025
NZ$
5299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
8 MAR 2026
days
7
Finish Christchurch
14 MAR 2026
NZ$
5299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
29 MAR 2026
days
7
Finish Christchurch
4 APR 2026
NZ$
5299
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.
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!