You’ll love this tour
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 pāua pearls on a guided Pāua 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
What's included
Activities
- Experienced tour director
- Marlborough Wine Tour custom experience
- Pāua Pearl Tour with pāua tasting
- Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura
- Hop-on hop-off tram in Christchurch
- Cook Strait ferry crossing in premium lounge
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus
*Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season of departure.
Transport
- Interislander ferry journey across the Cook Strait
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus
- Private coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage at selected locations
- Fully guided
Meals
- 5 Breakfasts
- 2 Dinners
- 1 Meal on the train
Accommodation
- 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 peopleIt was the best tour I have ever taken. Every day was an adventure. Train travel was wonderful and all connecting services were well coordinated
- Jean
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
Pāua 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
Welcome to 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 Christchurch 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)
Meals included
Dinner
Activities
Welcome dinner
Christchurch to Kaikōura – Coastlines & Cuisine
Travel north along the spectacular coastline aboard the Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus train. Relax with premium seating and gourmet cuisine as you journey past vineyards, surf beaches, and dramatic headlands.
Arriving in Kaikōura, choose to explore the seaside village or join an included Dolphin Encounter – with the option to upgrade to swim with these playful marine mammals. This evening, enjoy a relaxed night by the ocean and perhaps a seafood dinner featuring local crayfish.
Accommodation
4–4.5 star Oceanfront accommodation (1 night in Kaikōura)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus
Dolphin Encounter (Optional Dolphin swim upgrade)
Marlborough Flavours
Depart Kaikōura and continue your journey north into the Marlborough region, New Zealand’s largest and most famous wine-producing area.
Enjoy a three-course lunch at a boutique winery, paired with their award-winning wines. Visit two more cellar doors and the Makana Chocolate Boutique before arriving at your hotel in Blenheim.
Accommodation
4-4.5 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea
Activities
Custom Marlborough wine tour
Coastal Pacific scenic train in Scenic Plus
History in the skies & sounds of serenity
Start your day with a visit to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to an extraordinary collection of WWI and WWII aircraft brought to life with creative dioramas curated by Sir Peter Jackson. Gain a unique insight into New Zealand’s wartime aviation history.
After your museum visit, you'll journey by scenic water taxi into the tranquil beauty of the Marlborough Sounds. Take in the breathtaking views as you cruise to your resort-style accommodation, tucked away in this peaceful paradise.
This afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure – kayak, hike the nearby trails, or simply relax and take in the stillness of the sea.
This evening, gather for a delicious dinner at your Marlborough Sounds accommodation.
Accommodation
Marlborough Sounds Resort (1 night)
Meals included
Breakfast, Morning Tea, Dinner
Activities
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
Water taxi into Marlborough Sounds
Leisure time in the Sounds
Cross Cook Strait to the capital
After a relaxing morning, board a water taxi back to Picton, where a special visit awaits – the Pāua Pearl Farm. Learn how these unique iridescent pearls are cultivated and enjoy a chance to sample fresh pāua with a morning tea overlooking the Marlborough Sounds.
Later in the afternoon, board the Interislander Ferry for your scenic cruise across the Cook Strait. Enjoy premium lounge access, with complimentary afternoon tea and beverages as you sail into Wellington Harbour. Your ferry docks around 5:15pm, delivering you into the heart of New Zealand’s capital.
Accommodation
4-5 star accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals included
Breakfast, Morning Tea, Afternoon Tea (Interislander Premium Lounge)
Activities
Water taxi
Pāua Pearl Farm Visit
Interislander ferry with Premium Lounge access
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
Wellington City introduction tour
Group dinner
Farewell Wellington
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast at the hotel.
Not ready to Wellington? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
Transfer to airport
Explore Wellington
Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand’s capital! Wellington is known for its world-class dining, great coffee and eccentric shops.
Your great journey will officially begin the moment you check into your hotel room. After 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, join your fellow travellers as well as the Journey Director at this evening’s welcome dinner.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night)
Meals Included
Dinner with Welcome Drink
Activities
Welcome Reception
Crossing Cook Strait & wine country indulgence
This morning, say poroporoaki ki te motu raki (goodbye to the North Island) as you board the Interislander ferry for your voyage across Cook Strait. Travel in style in the Premium Lounge, where you’ll enjoy a seafarer’s breakfast and perhaps a mimosa as you take in the sights of the open ocean.
Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins dancing in the ferry’s wake—or, if you're lucky, a whale surfacing nearby. As you enter the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound, step outside and breathe in the fresh sea air while you cruise past native bush, mussel farms, and secluded coves.
Arriving into the picturesque port town of Picton, you’ll journey into the heart of Marlborough for a gourmet customised experience. Enjoy a three-course lunch at Allan Scott Wines Bistro, complete with a glass of paired Marlborough wine. Afterward, visit two boutique wineries for tastings and stop at the Makana Chocolate Boutique for a sweet finish on this wine tour exclusive to Great Journeys New Zealand.
Accommodation
Blenheim, Marlborough
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch
Activities
Interislander Ferry, Marlborough Wine Tour
Aviation, art & arrival in the Sounds
After breakfast, take a short trip to the world-renowned Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre—home to one of the most significant private collections of WWI and WWII aircraft and memorabilia. The museum’s immersive exhibits, brought to life with the help of Weta Workshop, make this a must-see experience for history and aviation enthusiasts alike.
In the afternoon, board a scenic water taxi into the Marlborough Sounds, where your accommodation awaits nestled in the natural serenity of a Marlborough Sounds resort. After check-in, enjoy free time to explore—relax in a hammock, take a walk through native bush, or kayak in the calm waters of the bay. As the sun sets over the Sounds, settle in for a delicious dinner, included with your stay.
Accommodation
Marlborough Sounds (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Morning Tea, Dinner
Activities
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
Water Taxi Transfer
Resort Leisure Time
The Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
This morning, set off on a scenic 45-minute boat ride deeper into the Sounds for an exclusive Pāua Pearl Farm Tour. Begin with morning tea, followed by a guided visit to the hatchery and growing tanks where these shimmering gems of the sea are cultivated. Learn the unique process of pāua pearl farming and enjoy a tasting of fresh, locally harvested pāua—an ocean delicacy.
After the tour, return to Picton where you’ll board the Coastal Pacific Scenic Train for one of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys. Relax as the train winds its way between sea and mountains, past rocky coastlines, and through rolling vineyards. Keep an eye out for fur seals basking on the rocks as you make your way to Kaikōura.
On arrival, your evening is free to stroll the waterfront and enjoy fresh kai moana (seafood) at one of Kaikōura’s inviting restaurants.
Accommodation
4–4.5 Star Oceanfront Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Morning Tea, Afternoon tea
Activities
Pāua Pearl Farm Tour
Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
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, Dessert
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 includes several of New Zealand's must-do activities:
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
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
Start Wellington
22 SEP 2026
7
days
Finish Christchurch
28 SEP 2026
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
6 OCT 2026
7
days
Finish Christchurch
12 OCT 2026
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
13 OCT 2026
7
days
Finish Christchurch
19 OCT 2026
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
3 NOV 2026
7
days
Finish Christchurch
9 NOV 2026
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
17 NOV 2026
7
days
Finish Christchurch
23 NOV 2026
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
24 NOV 2026
7
days
Finish Christchurch
30 NOV 2026
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
8 DEC 2026
7
days
Finish Christchurch
14 DEC 2026
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
15 DEC 2026
7
days
Finish Christchurch
21 DEC 2026
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
5 JAN 2027
7
days
Finish Christchurch
11 JAN 2027
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
19 JAN 2027
7
days
Finish Christchurch
25 JAN 2027
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
26 JAN 2027
7
days
Finish Christchurch
1 FEB 2027
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
16 FEB 2027
7
days
Finish Christchurch
22 FEB 2027
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
2 MAR 2027
7
days
Finish Christchurch
8 MAR 2027
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
9 MAR 2027
7
days
Finish Christchurch
15 MAR 2027
NZ$
5699
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
13 APR 2027
7
days
Finish Christchurch
19 APR 2027
NZ$
5699
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
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!
FAQs
The Signature Captivating Coast tour is our premium 6 or 7-day guided journey combining North and South Island highlights, luxury rail travel and curated experiences.
- Te Papa introduction
- Marlborough wine region experience
- Kaikōura coastal highlights
- Christchurch city experience
- Expert tour director
- Premium hotel stays
- Small group departures
- Iconic rail journeys
- Curated, exclusive experiences
This premium guided journey runs for 6 or 7 days.
The Coastal Pacific scenic train in Scenic Plus, and Cook Strait ferry crossing in the Premium Lounge.
Some of the key highlights below, see the itinerary for all inclusions -
Optional activities are available during selected free time.
Starts in Wellington and finishes in Christchurch. Reverse departures may be available.
Travellers aged 16+ seeking a premium small-group rail holiday.
Daily breakfast, selected premium dining and 6 nights in 4–4.5 star accommodation.
Seasonal departures September–April.
Yes, free time allows optional excursions.
Any questions?
Whether it's pricing, availability, future dates, tour options or extended itineraries, our super-friendly and knowledgeable New Zealand travel specialists are here to help.
Our Travel Centre are on hand to answer your questions and help you build your perfect New Zealand holiday.
Give us a call or contact us online; we can't wait to hear from you.