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
- Encounter the volcanic peaks of Middle Earth in Tongariro National Park
- Experience the bioluminescent glowworm caves of Waitomo
- Cruise through magnificent views while crossing the Cook Strait
- Sip world-class wine amongst the vines in Marlborough
- Discover Haast Pass on a unique Kiwi-style Road Trip adventure
- Uncover the home of the sacred pounamu, mesmerising blue lakes, and ancient forests on the West Coast
- Be captivated by the storytelling of your Tour Director along this great journey
- Escape on nautical adventures along Milford Sound, Queen Charlotte Sound and Lake Wakatipu
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
- Experienced Tour Director
- Hamilton Gardens Guided Tour and Picnic
- Raglan Dinner Cruise
- Sanctuary Mountain Wildlife Experience
- Glowworm Caves Tour
- Wellington Tour
- Marlborough Wine Tour Experience
- Wildlife Experience in Kaikōura
- Christchurch Historic Tramway Restaurant
- West Coast Tree Top Walk
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk
- Haast River Safari
- Milford Sound Day Tour and Cruise
- TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise and Dinner Excursion
- Three World-Class Scenic Train Journeys
- Cook Strait Ferry Crossing
What you get along the way
Transportation
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train
- Interislander Ferry journey across the Cook Strait
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
- TranzAlpine Scenic Train
- 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 4.5 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
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train Experience
- Hamilton Gardens Guided Tour including a picnic lunch
- Raglan Sunset Dinner Cruise
- Sanctuary Mountain Walk
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train Experience
- Afternoon excursion to view northern volcanic landscapes
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train
- Morning excursion to view southern volcanic landscapes
- Wellington City Introduction Tour
- Group Dinner
- Interislander Ferry
- Marlborough Wine Tour
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Train Journey
- Choice of Whale, Dolphin, or Albatross Experience
- TranzAlpine Scenic Journey
- Punakaiki Pancake Rock Excursion
- West Coast Tree Top Walk
- Short Nature Walk to Glacier Viewing Point
- 5-Course Degustation Meal at Te Waonui Forest Retreat
- Scenic coach journey through Haast Pass with stops along the way
- Haast River Safari
- Mrs Jones’ Fruit Stall and Arrowtown Visit
- Farewell Dinner at Walter Peak Farm
- TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Farm Show
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 shop 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
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night)
Meals Included
Dinner with Welcome Drink
Activities
Welcome Dinner
The Northern Explorer Scenic Train
The Beginning of your Scenic Journey
Your journey awaits as you join the Northern Explorer scenic train. Marvel at rural New Zealand’s lush landscapes from the comfort of your scenic carriage. From the sparkling waters of the Waitemata Harbour to the green pastures of the Waikato – you won’t want to miss a moment.
Arriving in Hamilton, your coach awaits you to bring you to the famous Hamilton Gardens. Engross yourself in the garden’s collection of themed rooms as you are led by an experienced guide. Learn about the history, context and meaning of each garden before finishing this delightful morning with a picnic on the lush lawns. Surrounded by beauty, you will be in utter bliss.
In the early afternoon, enjoy some free time in the heart of Hamilton before departing for an evening visit to Raglan – a seaside surfer town. It’s here that you’ll enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise on the pristine harbour.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Hamilton)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activities
Discover Endangered and Bioluminescent Species
Dazzled by Nature
This morning you will depart for your next exciting excursion – Maungatautari Sanctuary Mountain.
Let your guide transport you into an ancient world of ecological wonders as you explore New Zealand’s very own pest-free environment, within native forest. On this excursion, you will walk through the home of some of New Zealand’s most endangered species. Discover North Island’s robins, tomtits, kākā, pōpokotea, bellbirds, hihi, tīeke, fantails, kereru and wētā. This pre-human paradise has one of the world’s longest pest-proof fences.
Your expedition continues after a lunch stop in New Zealand’s “Kiwiana Capital”, Otorohanga. Make sure you capture a photo of the giant Kiwi birds! Next, discover the famous Waitomo Glow worm Caves and be dazzled by the seemingly star-filled sky as you glide by boat through this impressive cave formation.
Tonight, explore Hamilton's riverside walks and shops on this free evening. Enjoy one of the many nearby restaurants as the sun sets over the Waikato River.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Hamilton)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Explore Tongariro National Park
Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, today you’ll soar over icy mountain streams as you travel to Tongariro National Park, the home of three volcanic mountains.
Tongariro National Park has a diverse range of ecosystems and spectacular landscapes. In 1993, it was recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and was the first property to be inscribed with the criteria describing the cultural values it holds for Māori.
Enjoy a mini excursion up to Tūroa ski field. Here you'll want to capture a panoramic photo of Middle Earth before descending into Ohakune.
Tonight, enjoy a special dinner with your fellow travellers.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Ohakune)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Explore 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 hop aboard a rail cart journey or join a horse trekking experience that takes you along expansive hills, mountains, rivers and into native forest.
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
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Ohakune)
Meals Included
Breakfast
The Northern Explorer Scenic Train
Your day begins with an elevated experience up the northern face of Mt Ruapehu for panoramic views of the volcanic landscape. Drink in the views of Mt Ngāuruhoe, Mt Tongariro, and beyond across the central North Island.
Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, waving goodbye to Tongariro National Park, 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 get the best view from the train.
A little later, why not indulge in a treat from our onboard licensed café? As you glide through rich green farmland and past dramatic coastlines, enjoy the picturesque Porirua Harbour as you arrive into Wellington.
Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand’s windy capital! You’ve arrived at Wellington Railway Station which is just a stone’s throw from downtown, the Beehive and Parliament Buildings. You won't want to waste a moment of time after checking into the hotel - your evening is free to explore this culinary capital from Queen’s Wharf to Cuba street and beyond.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals
Breakfast
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 cafés, 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.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Crossing Cook Strait
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, settle down in the comfy seats in the Premium Lounge. Treat yourself to a mimosa and enjoy a hearty seafaring breakfast, but save some room for morning tea!
On your journey across Cook Strait you may spot pods of dolphins playing in the wake or, if you are very lucky, whales. Don’t spend all your time inside – as you enter the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound, enjoy the views as you cruise past the remnants of whaling stations, remote working sheep farms, pristine native bush and mussel farms. Admire the beauty of this coastal paradise as you arrive into the gateway of the South Island, Picton. Step off the Interislander Ferry and join your next world-class experience aboard a Marlborough Wine Tour.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
The Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
Today you will be travelling into Kaikōura. Relax as the train glides across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking 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 before enjoying your luxurious ocean-front hotel.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Coastal Pacific Scenic Train Journey
Explore Kaikōura
Today will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience of whale, dolphin, or albatross watching! Enjoy today’s thrill of an up-close encounter with wildlife. If you would prefer to gain an aerial experience of the fantastic vistas and beyond, why not request a plane ride to capture the true grandeur of it all?
After this outstanding experience, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the beach 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 highlight day will continue as you rejoin the Coastal Pacific Train en route to Christchurch. The spectacular scenery doesn’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 as you indulge in a gourmet meal from the onboard scenic café.
Sit back and relax for the remainder of the evening before hitting the town the following day.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Activities
Explore Christchurch
Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration, is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with the 19th-century Anglican 'gothic revival' architectural influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is rebuilding itself into a multicultural haven.
Today you are free to explore the museums, Riverside Markets, Punting on the Avon, Gondola and botanical gardens. There is also a multitude of delicious cafés tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love.
This evening, you will re-join your fellow travellers for a special dinner on Christchurch’s historic dinner tram. Enjoy a wonderful circuit of the city while indulging in fantastic conversation and seasonal cuisine.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Christchurch)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Christchurch Historic Tramway Dinner
The TranzAlpine Scenic Train
The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine 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 on the West Coast, a private coach will take you even further off the beaten track to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Here you will explore curious limestone formations and blowholes before finishing your day in the ocean-front town of Hokitika.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Morning Tea and Lunch on train
Activities
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 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 peek 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 indulging in the local activities and retail therapy in Franz Josef’s souvenir shops, join your group for an impeccable highlight meal at Te Waonui Forest Retreat.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Explore the Southern Lakes
Today you will explore the Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey of about five hours to Queenstown, will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. While aboard an exciting river boat and private coach, marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and majestic glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems. Stop in unique locations that only locals know about.
Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore the local fruit hotspot – Mrs. Jones’ Fruit Stall before exploring the cobblestone streets 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
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities Included
Explore Milford Sound
The 8th Wonder of the World
Make sure you charge your camera before you set off on today’s adventure. Today you’re heading to Milford Sound/ Piopiotahi to be engulfed in towering peaks and waltz through plunging valleys.
After travelling through native rainforests, meadows, and past beautiful reflective pools, you will join your cruise in Milford Sound. Enjoy one of the most stunning natural features New Zealand has to offer. Aboard the cruise, you will meander down the sound to experience the rumble of Bowen and Stirling Falls as they plummet from glacial hanging valleys. Marvel at the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak, rising from the deep waters of the fjord.
Or, if you’d like to soar like the Piopio (ancient bird), why not elevate your day by booking a flight into the Sound by plane?
After this adventure, you will be heading back to Queenstown for a relaxing evening.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Activities
Milford Sound Day Excursion
Explore Queenstown
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, hopping on the gondola for inspiring views, or sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses.
Enjoy a ‘final hurrah’ this evening as we board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise, dinner, and show. Reflect on your great adventure with your fellow travellers as you cruise to your dining experience at Walter peak overlooking the beautiful Table Bay. Sit back and watch a true Kiwi experience as you learn about sheep shearing and dog herding in this beautiful setting. This evening will truly encapsulate your great journey as a truly New Zealand highlight.
Not ready to call it a night? Sip cocktails and indulge in Queenstown’s exciting nightlife alongside the sparkling Lake Wakatipu.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
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 Signature New Zealand Up Close tour between Auckland and Queenstown includes New Zealand's must-do activities:
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.
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.
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
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 and complete the enquiry form. You can choose to pay a 20% deposit and then pay the balance 66 days before departure.
Start Auckland
13 SEP 2023
days
17
Finish Queenstown
29 SEP 2023
NZ$
13999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
25 OCT 2023
days
17
Finish Queenstown
10 NOV 2023
NZ$
13999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
15 NOV 2023
days
17
Finish Queenstown
1 DEC 2023
NZ$
13999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
10 JAN 2024
days
17
Finish Queenstown
26 JAN 2024
NZ$
13999
per person
twin/share
Start Queenstown
27 JAN 2024
days
17
Finish Auckland
12 FEB 2024
NZ$
14499
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
14 FEB 2024
days
17
Finish Queenstown
1 MAR 2024
NZ$
13999
per person
twin/share
Start Queenstown
6 APR 2024
days
17
Finish Auckland
22 APR 2024
NZ$
14499
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
17 APR 2024
days
17
Finish Queenstown
3 MAY 2024
NZ$
13999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
11 SEPT 2024
days
17
Finish Queenstown
27 SEPT 2024
NZ$
13999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
2 OCT 2024
days
17
Finish Queenstown
18 OCT 2024
NZ$
13999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
30 OCT 2024
days
17
Finish Queenstown
15 NOV 2024
NZ$
13999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
22 JAN 2025
days
17
Finish Queenstown
7 FEB 2025
NZ$
13999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
12 MAR 2025
days
17
Finish Queenstown
28 MAR 2025
NZ$
13999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
9 APR 2025
days
17
Finish Queenstown
25 APR 2025
NZ$
13999
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
16 APR 2025
days
17
Finish Queenstown
2 MAY 2025
NZ$
13999
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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