Join us on this guided adventure between Wellington and Christchurch. Glide across the magnificent Cook Strait, along coastal beaches and through mountain valleys.
Highlights
- Glide along untouched coastline by scenic rail
- Cruise alongside magnificent views while crossing the Cook Strait
- Sip world-class wine among the vines in Marlborough
- Discover the iridescent beauty of paua pearls on a guided Paua Pearl Tour and sip your way through Marlborough's renowned vineyards
- Encounter playful dolphins in Kaikōura
- Embark on the Coastal Pacific, a world-class scenic train journeys, traversing breathtaking landscapes while dining in Scenic Plus and be captivated by the storytelling of your Tour Director along this great journey
- 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 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
- Marlborough Wine Tour Custom Experience
- Paua Pearl Tour with Paua Tasting
- Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura
- Cook Strait Ferry Crossing in Premium Plus Lounge
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus
*Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season of departure.
What you get along the way
Transportation
- Interislander Ferry journey across the Cook Strait
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus
- Private Coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage
Meals
- 5 Breakfasts
- 2 Dinners
- 1 Meals on the train
Accommodation
- 4 to 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.
Explore Wellington
Kia Ora!
Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand’s capital city! Wellington is known for its world-class dining, great coffee and eccentric shops.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Wellington has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to get cultured at Te Papa Museum or grab a drink at one of the many quirky bars on Cuba Street. You may even fancy a ride on the cable car!
After an exciting day on the town, your tour will officially begin as you join your fellow travellers and Tour Director at this evening’s welcome dinner.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Dinner
Activities
Welcome Dinner
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.
Once in Marlborough, 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.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Interislander Ferry
Marlborough Wine Tour
The Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Pāua Pearl Farm Tour, where innovation meets tradition along New Zealand’s scenic coastline. After a 45 minute cruise to the outer Marlborough Sounds, begin your journey with a warm welcome and morning tea, followed by a guided tour through the hatchery and growing tanks where these iridescent treasures are nurtured. Learn about the fascinating process of cultivating pāua pearls, then indulge in a tasting of fresh, locally harvested pāua—an unforgettable flavour of the ocean.
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 Plus
Paua Pearl Farm Tour
Explore Kaikōura
Set out on an unforgettable Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura, where the ocean comes alive with the playful energy of wild dusky dolphins. Cruise along the stunning coastline as knowledgeable guides share insights into these intelligent marine mammals. Watch as pods leap, spin, and interact in their natural habitat—or elevate your adventure with the option to upgrade and swim alongside them for a truly immersive and exhilarating experience.
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.
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.
Relax for the remainder of the evening before hitting the town the following day.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Christchurch)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Dolphin Encounter Experience
Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus
Explore Christchurch
Christchurch, the gateway to South Island exploration, beautifully blends cutting-edge innovation with 19th-century Anglican Gothic Revival architecture. While the city is often remembered for the 2011 earthquake, today it stands as a vibrant, multicultural hub with a strong sense of renewal and creativity.
Your day begins with the convenience of the Hop-On Hop-Off Tram, a charming way to navigate the central city and discover its highlights at your own pace. Enjoy a custom walking tour with your Great Journeys New Zealand guide, who will bring the city’s stories, landmarks, and hidden gems to life. Explore must-see attractions like the Riverside Markets, Punting on the Avon, the Gondola, and the tranquil Botanical Gardens. Along the way, uncover a variety of boutique cafés tucked into laneways and side streets.
This evening, unwind and reflect on your discoveries over a beautifully curated dinner at Earl, one of Christchurch’s most acclaimed dining spots, known for its relaxed elegance and refined seasonal cuisine.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Christchurch)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Hop on Hop off Tram
Custom Walking tour with GJNZ Guide
Dinner at Earl
Departing Christchurch
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast at the hotel.
Not ready to leave Christchurch? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Transfer to airport
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 Captivating Coast 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
Tour Code: SWC
Our Signature Captivating Coast 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
9 SEPT 2025
days
6
Finish Christchurch
14 SEPT 2025
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
26 SEPT 2025
days
6
Finish Wellington
1 OCT 2025
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
7 OCT 2025
days
6
Finish Christchurch
12 OCT 2025
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
14 OCT 2025
days
6
Finish Christchurch
19 OCT 2025
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
21 OCT 2025
days
6
Finish Christchurch
26 OCT 2025
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
28 OCT 2025
days
6
Finish Christchurch
2 NOV 2025
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
4 NOV 2025
days
6
Finish Christchurch
9 NOV 2025
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
11 NOV 2025
days
6
Finish Christchurch
16 NOV 2025
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
18 NOV 2025
days
6
Finish Christchurch
23 NOV 2025
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
2 DEC 2025
days
6
Finish Christchurch
7 DEC 2025
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
9 DEC 2025
days
6
Finish Christchurch
14 DEC 2025
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
16 DEC 2025
days
6
Finish Christchurch
21 DEC 2025
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
6 JAN 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
11 JAN 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
20 JAN 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
25 JAN 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
27 JAN 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
1 FEB 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
3 FEB 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
8 FEB 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
10 FEB 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
15 FEB 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
17 FEB 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
22 FEB 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
24 FEB 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
1 MAR 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
3 MAR 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
8 MAR 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
10 MAR 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
15 MAR 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
17 MAR 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
22 MAR 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
24 MAR 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
29 MAR 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
31 MAR 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
5 APR 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
3 APR 2026
days
6
Finish Wellington
8 APR 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
7 APR 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
12 APR 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
14 APR 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
19 APR 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
17 APR 2026
days
6
Finish Wellington
22 APR 2026
NZ$
4999
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
21 APR 2026
days
6
Finish Christchurch
26 APR 2026
NZ$
4999
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.
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