Join us on this great journey through the North Island from Auckland to Wellington and explore volcanic geological peaks, burbling rivers and New Zealand's idyllic natural landscapes.
Highlights
- Option to visit Rotorua or Ohakune
- Travel Southbound or Northbound, with departures from Auckland or Wellington
- Ride one world-famous scenic train journey in Scenic Plus premium comfort
- Explore Tongariro National Park, Middle Earthâs volcanic peaks
- Enjoy a tea ceremony and Signature High Tea at Zealong Tea Estate
- Cruise the glowworm-lit Waitomo Caves
- Be captivated by the storytelling of your Tour Director along this great journey
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
- Option to visit Rotorua or Ohakune
- Experienced Tour Director
- Raglan Dinner Cruise
- Sanctuary Mountain Custom Wildlife Experience
- Zealong Tea Estate Tour, Tea Ceremony & Signature High Tea
- Waitomo Caves Glowworm Tour
- Lunch at Lauren's Lavender with time to explore
- Wellington City Tour
- Redwoods Tree Walk (via Rotorua)
- One World-Class Scenic Train Journey including Scenic Plus Dining Experience
*Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season of departure.
What you get along the way
Transportation
- Northern Explorer Scenic Plus Train
- Private Coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage
- Fully Guided
Minimum Age
- 16 years and over
- Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Meals
- 6 Breakfasts
- Lunches and High Tea
- 4 Dinners
- 3 Meals on the train
Accommodation
- 4 to 5 Star Hotel (7 nights)
- Twin Share
- Single Upgrade Available
Group Size
Maximum of 20 people.
Welcome to Wellington! The windy capital of New Zealand!
Youâll meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers in the evening, when your tour officially begins. If you arrive earlier, spend the day uncovering the heart of Wellington, New Zealandâs capital of creativity, culture and coffee. Explore the iconic Beehive, Parliament Buildings, Mt Victoria lookout and more.
This evening, enjoy a hosted group dinner at a local Wellington restaurant, sampling some of the capitalâs best cuisine alongside your fellow travellers.
Accommodation
4â5 Star Accommodation (1 night in Wellington)
Meals Included
Dinner
Activities
Dinner at a Wellington Restaurant
Your Scenic Train Journey Begins
Board the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus carriage this morning and enjoy a premium rail experience as you depart Wellington. Relax with locally inspired food and drink as you glide through river gorges and lush farmland, bound for the volcanic heart of the North Island.
By early afternoon, youâll arrive in either Tongariro National Park or Rotorua â depending on your chosen itinerary. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Accommodation
4â4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch
Activities
Northern Explorer Scenic Plus (Wellington to Ohakune or Rotorua)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch
Activities
Interislander Ferry, Marlborough Wine Tour
Explore Tongariro National Park or Rotorua
If staying in Tongariro National Park:
Start your day with a scenic drive to TÅ«roa ski field on Mt Ruapehu. Here, panoramic views of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed volcanic landscape await. Capture your own slice of Middle Earth before descending into Ohakune for an evening of relaxation or exploration.
If staying in Rotorua:
Experience the magical Redwoods Treewalk â a series of suspension bridges through towering Californian redwoods. In the evening, be transported to another world with the Summer Harvest Experience at Te PÄ TÅ«, an unforgettable fusion of MÄori culture, seasonal cuisine, and storytelling under the stars.
Accommodation
4â4.5 Star Accommodation
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
TÅ«roa Mountain Excursion or Redwoods Treewalk
Rotorua - Te PÄ TÅ« Cultural Experience
Tea, Culture and Coastal Delights
Tea, Culture, and Coastal Delights
If travelling via Ohakune:
Rejoin the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus for a day of rail travel through the heart of the North Island, passing the volcanic plateau and the iconic Raurimu Spiral. Disembark in Hamilton for an evening at leisure.
Note: No dinner is included this evening.
If travelling via Rotorua:
Travel by coach through the rolling hills of the Waikato region and arrive in Hamilton. Later, journey west to the charming surf town of Raglan for a relaxing sunset dinner cruise, complete with classic Kiwi fish and chips as you take in the coastal views.
Accommodation
4â4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Hamilton)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Rotorua Route: Dinner
Ohakune Route: No Dinner
Activities
Northern Explorer Scenic Plus (Ohakune Route only)
Raglan Sunset Dinner Cruise (Rotorua Route only)
Glowworms and conservation
Glowworms and Conservation
Begin your final day with a visit to the elegant Zealong Tea Estate, New Zealandâs only commercial tea plantation. Enjoy a guided tour and traditional tea tasting, followed by a Signature High Tea lunch surrounded by serene views of the estate.
In the afternoon, board the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus for the last leg of your rail adventure. Travel north past rolling farmland and alongside the Waikato River before arriving into Auckland, the City of Sails.
Enjoy Scenic Plus dinner onboard as you toast to your journey. Upon arrival, gather for a farewell cocktail at your Auckland hotel.
Accommodation
4â5 Star Accommodation (1 night in Auckland)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Scenic Plus)
Activities
Zealong Tea Estate Tour & High Tea
Northern Explorer Scenic Plus
Farewell Cocktail at Hotel
To the City of Sails
To the City of Sails
Today youâll board the final stretch of the Northern Explorer as you head into New Zealandâs largest city, Auckland. Glide past farmland and alongside the sparkling Waikato River, before arriving in the heart of the City of Sails.
This afternoon is yours to explore â head up the Sky Tower for sweeping views, visit the Auckland Art Gallery, or relax in one of the many waterfront eateries. This evening, join your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a celebratory farewell dinner.
Accommodation
4â5 Star Accommodation (1 night in Auckland)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Northern Explorer Scenic Plus
Farewell Dinner
Farewell Aotearoa
After breakfast, your tour concludes. Whether youâre flying home or continuing your travels, take with you a camera full of photos, new friendships, and memories to last a lifetime.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Explore Auckland
Welcome to Auckland, New Zealandâs 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 - 5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Welcome Dinner & Cocktail
Activities
Welcome Dinner
The Northern Explorer Scenic Train
Your journey awaits as you join the Northern Explorer Scenic train. Marvel at rural New Zealandâs lush landscapes from the comfort of your Scenic Plus carriage. From the sparkling waters of the WaitematÄ Harbour to the green pastures of the Waikato â you wonât want to miss a moment.
Arriving in Hamilton, your coach awaits you to bring you to the enchanting Zealong Tea Estate, where an immersive 1.5-hour tour and tea ceremony await, followed by the renowned Signature High Tea experience. Discover the art of tea-making amidst breathtaking surroundings.
In the early afternoon, enjoy some free time in the heart of Hamilton before departing for an evening visit to Raglan â a seaside surfer town. Itâs here that youâll enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise on the pristine harbour and classic kiwi Fish 'n' Chips for dinner.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Hamilton)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activities
Northern Explorer Scenic Plus
Zealong Estate Tour, Tea Ceremony & Signature High Tea
Raglan Sunset Dinner Cruise
Discover Endangered and Bioluminescent Species
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari on a bespoke two-hour tour through its ancient forests. Discover the indigenous flora and fauna, their traditional uses, and gain fascinating insights into MÄori herbal medicinal practices, the unique RongoÄ RÄkau. This unforgettable journey will take you deep into the heart of New Zealand's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Your expedition continues after a lunch stop in New Zealandâs âKiwiana Capitalâ, 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
Sanctuary Mountain: Custom Tour
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Explore Tongariro National Park
Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, today youâll 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 MÄori.
Enjoy a mini excursion up to TÅ«roa 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
Northern Explorer Scenic Plus
Afternoon excursion to view volcanic landscapes
Rotorua Tour?
You'll make your way into Rotorua, check in and enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Explore Tongariro National Park
Enjoy the morning with breakfast at your accommodation, then set off on a journey of discovery to Taumarunui.
Enjoy the ambiance as you spend a few hours in Taumarunui, exploring a local garden before your lunchtime feast at Lauren's Lavender Farm. Indulge in a hot meat dish accompanied by an array of refreshing salads, followed by a walk amidst the fragrant lavender fields and a visit to the lavender shop.
After your garden escapades, you'll return to Ohakune, where the evening is yours to spend how you like. Opt for relaxation in the inviting hot tubs or immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ohakune at your leisure.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Ohakune)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Lauren's Lavender Farm
Explore Rotorua
On a tour that includes Rotorua? ð
Start your day surrounded by the soaring giants of the Whakarewarewa Forest with the Redwoods Treewalk Treetops Experience. Suspended high above the forest floor, this tranquil daytime walk offers breathtaking views, fresh forest air, and a unique perspective of Rotoruaâs natural beauty.
In the evening, immerse yourself in a rich cultural and culinary journey with the Summer Harvest Experience at Te PÄ TÅ«. This intimate event weaves MÄori traditions, storytelling, seasonal cuisine, and captivating performances into an unforgettable night under the stars.
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 NgÄuruhoe, 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. Donât 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 â New Zealandâs windy capital! Youâve arrived at Wellington Railway Station which is just a stoneâs 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 Queenâs Wharf to Cuba street and beyond.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Northern Explorer Scenic Plus
Morning excursion to view volcanic landscapes
Rotorua Tour?
You'll travel to Taumaranui to board the Northern Explorer for your Scenic Plus experience down to Wellington.
Explore Wellington
The perfect day does exist â 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 Streetâs cafés, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Get cultured at Te Papa, New Zealandâs National Museum, or visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary to surround yourself by native birdlife and regenerating forest.
You wonât 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
Wellington City Introduction Tour
Group Dinner
Departures Available - September 2026 to April 2027
Tour Code: SAW
Our 2026 and 2027 Signature Auckland to Wellington 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
9 SEPT 2026
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Wellington
16 SEPT 2026
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
16 SEPT 2026
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Wellington
23 SEP 2026
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
30 SEP 2026
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Auckland
6 OCT 2026
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
30 SEPT 2026
via Ohakune
8
days
7 OCT 2026
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
7 OCT 2026
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Wellington
14 OCT 2026
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
21 OCT 2026
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Auckland
27 OCT 2026
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
21 OCT 2026
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Wellington
28 OCT 2026
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
28 OCT 2026
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Wellington
4 NOV 2026
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
11 NOV 2026
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Auckland
17 NOV 2026
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
11 NOV 2026
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Wellington
18 NOV 2026
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
18 NOV 2026
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Wellington
25 NOV 2026
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
2 DEC 2026
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Auckland
8 DEC 2026
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
2 DEC 2026
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Wellington
9 DEC 2026
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
9 DEC 2026
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Wellington
16 DEC 2026
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
13 JAN 2027
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Wellington
20 JAN 2027
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
20 JAN 2027
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Auckland
26 JAN 2027
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
20 JAN 2027
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Wellington
27 JAN 2027
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
3 FEB 2027
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Wellington
10 FEB 2027
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
10 FEB 2027
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Auckland
16 FEB 2027
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
10 FEB 2027
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Wellington
17 FEB 2027
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
24 FEB 2027
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Wellington
3 MAR 2027
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
3 MAR 2027
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Auckland
9 MAR 2027
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
3 MAR 2027
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Wellington
10 MAR 2027
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
17 MAR 2027
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Wellington
24 MAR 2027
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
24 MAR 2027
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Auckland
30 MAR 2027
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
24 MAR 2027
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Wellington
31 MAR 2027
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
7 APR 2027
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Wellington
14 APR 2027
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
14 APR 2027
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Auckland
20 APR 2027
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
14 APR 2027
via Rotorua
8
days
Finish Wellington
21 APR 2027
NZ$
7149
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
5 MAY 2027
via Ohakune
8
days
Finish Auckland
11 MAY 2027
NZ$
6799
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
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 Auckland to Wellington tour, your journey will begin aboard the Northern Explorer, leaving the towering Auckland skyline behind you and setting out across the mighty Waikato plains.
From Hamilton, your journey spirals up onto the volcanic plateau around the historic Raurimu Spiral. At the top, you will cruise beneath three mighty volcanic peaks before slowly descending across several soaring viaducts.
Your final journey brings you along the sparkling Kapiti Coast on your way into our glittering capital city, Wellington.
More 2026/2027 Season Tours
All Available Tours
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.