New Zealand Rail

31/12/2022

"Celebrate endings—for they precede new beginnings." —Jonathan Huie

Let's all celebrate the ending of 2022 as we have managed to overcome another challenging year, and be thankful for the coming of this new year 2023 with the hope of new beginnings and positivity.

This 2023, let's all try to live the best life we could, travel as much as we could, enjoy as much as possible, and spend more time with our loved ones.

Let's all make this year full of Excitement and Adventure!

New Zealand adventure awaits!

Happy New Year everyone! ✨🍾🥂

29/09/2022

Christchurch Kaikoura Train Rail Day Excursion

Your journey takes you north through some of New Zealand's finest horticultural and farmland areas of the Canterbury Plains before travelling along the narrow Pacific Ocean coastline with views of marine wildlife such as seals and penguins to the town of Kaikoura.

You'll have 6 hours to either explore this marine town or, we recommend the Whale Watch Excursion departing at 10.30 am and returning at 1.15 pm ( additional cost )

Bookings are open for travel from September 29, 2022 - March 30, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/353

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

27/09/2022

Coastal Pacific Day Excursion- Christchurch-Picton-Christchurch

Your journey takes you north through some of New Zealand's finest horticultural and farmland areas of the Canterbury Plains before travelling along the narrow Pacific Ocean coastline with views of marine wildlife such as seals and penguins to the town of Picton.

The Coastal Pacific carriages have advanced air bag suspension system for quieter and smoother travel, un-tinted, non-reflective, panoramic side and roof windows, to capture the dramatic coastal and mountain views of the South Island, GPS triggered journey commentary in five languages at your seat via passenger headphones, plus overhead information displays.

Bookings are open for travel from September 29, 2022 - March 30, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/597

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

25/09/2022

THE NORTHERN EXPLORER - WELLINGTON TO AUCKLAND

Along the way, you will see fantastic views of New Zealand farmland and rugged bush landscapes, before ascending up the world famous Raurimu Spiral to the volcanic plateau passing the majestic volcanoes of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Ruapehu - the home of the North Island ski fields. Then descending through stunning river gorges to the farming landscapes and rocky seascapes of the lower North Island - all from large panoramic windows and the open air viewing deck of the Northern Explorer train.

Stops along the way include Papakura, Hamilton, Otorohanga (Waitomo), National Park, Ohakune, Palmerston North and Paraparaumu.

NORTHERN EXPLORER operating days: Northbound (Wednesday, Friday & Sunday)

Bookings are open for Travels from September 26, 2022 - March 30, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/train-services/the-northern-explorer

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

22/09/2022

THE NORTHERN EXPLORER - AUCKLAND TO WELLINGTON

Along the way, you will see fantastic views of New Zealand farmland and rugged bush landscapes, before ascending up the world famous Raurimu Spiral to the volcanic plateau passing the majestic volcanoes of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Ruapehu - the home of the North Island ski fields. Then descending through stunning river gorges to the farming landscapes and rocky seascapes of the lower North Island - all from large panoramic windows and the open air viewing deck of the Northern Explorer train.

Stops along the way include Papakura, Hamilton, Otorohanga (Waitomo), National Park, Ohakune, Palmerston North and Paraparaumu.

NORTHERN EXPLORER operating days: Southbound (Monday, Thursday & Saturday)

Bookings are open for Travels from September 26, 2022 - March 30, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/train-services/the-northern-explorer

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

20/09/2022

Christchurch Greymouth Train Rail Day Excursion

Travelling west crossing the Canterbury Plains, the train slowly ascends through spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River towards the Southern Alps to the alpine village of Arthurs Pass, for a short break, before descending through the Otira Tunnel to the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, through lush alpine beech rain forests to Greymouth - the commercial centre of the South Island's west coast.

There is a 1 hour stop at Greymouth where you can explore this town and experience west coast hospitality before your train returns to Christchurch.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/351

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

18/09/2022

Christchurch Arthurs Pass Train Rail Day Excursion

You'll have five hours to view the displays at the National Park Visitors Centre, then go on your alpine adventure on the many forest park walks in Arthur's Pass National Park, before you return to Christchurch.

The carriages on your train are centrally heated in winter and air conditioned in summer, with 'Airline' style reclining seats with headrests and 'table' (4 people around a table) seating.

Each carriage has onboard washroom/toilet facilities, with '2 Seat-Aisle-2 Seat' seating either as reclining forward facing seats with head and foot rests or 'Table Group' (4 people around a table) seating allowing to experience the amazing views of the magnificent South Island, through panoramic side and roof windows, while enjoying the company of other passengers.

The TranzAlpine train has a café carriage offering a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, snacks and light meals and an open viewing carriage for views of the Southern Alps and alpine rainforest landscape of the South Island's west coast.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/352

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

15/09/2022

Milford Sound Scenic Cruise from Queenstown

During the cruise, friendly crew provide commentaries in several languages and point out the sights such as Mitre Peak and the Pembroke Glacier.

So sit back and make your Milford Sound experience an unforgettable one!

Bookings are open for travel from October 01, 2022 - September 30, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/623

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

13/09/2022

Milford Sound Scenic Cruises

During the cruise, friendly crew provide commentaries in several languages and point out the sights such as Mitre Peak and the Pembroke Glacier.

So sit back and make your Milford Sound experience an unforgettable one!

Bookings are open for travel from October 01, 2022 - September 30, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/293

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

11/09/2022

Ferry from Stewart Island to Bluff

It’s an interesting stretch of water, home to several islands including Dog Island (spot the lighthouse), Ruapuke Island and the T**i Islands, and a considerable fishing industry.

During your trip, keep an eye out along the way for wildlife – particularly seabirds such as the Mollymawk and T**i. Friendly staff provide informative commentary and point out highlights.

An all-year daily scheduled ferry service is available with complimentary tea and coffee served aboard.

Check in 30 mins prior to ferry departure
One hour journey
Parking at Bluff Visitor Terminal is available (extra cost)
On board café
Luggage limit – two carry-on bags per person (extra goods by arrangement)

Bookings are open for travel from October 01, 2022 - September 30, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/295

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

08/09/2022

Ferry from Bluff to Stewart Island

It’s an interesting stretch of water, home to several islands including Dog Island (spot the lighthouse), Ruapuke Island and the T**i Islands, and a considerable fishing industry.

During your trip, keep an eye out along the way for wildlife – particularly seabirds such as the Mollymawk and T**i. Friendly staff provide informative commentary and point out highlights.

An all-year daily scheduled ferry service is available with complimentary tea and coffee served aboard.

Check in 30 mins prior to ferry departure
One hour journey
Parking at Bluff Visitor Terminal is available (extra cost)
On board café
Luggage limit – two carry-on bags per person (extra goods by arrangement)

Bookings are open for travel from October 01, 2022 - September 30, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/294

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

06/09/2022

Waiheke Ferry - Auckland to Waiheke Open Return

A great way to make the most of a day trip is to combine your ferry ticket with one of our great value island tours – there’s a tour to suit everyone. For the more adventurous, other activities on the island include zip lining, ocean kayaking and mountain biking.

Enjoy regular daily services between Auckland and Waiheke and vice versa.

All vessels, sailings and itineraries are subject to change at the company's discretion due to weather, sea conditions and/or operational requirements.

Bookings are open for travel from July 01, 2022 - September 01, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/473

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

04/09/2022

Rangitoto Island Ferry Day Trip - Auckland to Rangitoto

Walk to the top for spectacular 360 degree views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf islands, or hop on board our Volcanic Explorer road train tour for a guided island experience.

Maori know Rangitoto Island as ‘Te Rangi i totongia a Tamatekapua’ – ‘the day the blood of Tamatekapua was shed’, in reference to a major eruption that formed the volcanic peak, as well as a battle that occurred between warring tribes fought on the Island. Walking to the summit takes about an hour at an easy pace. Lookouts along the way provide some stunning views as you climb, and you can do a detour to explore the lava caves only 200 meters from the summit on the eastern side. Other tracks that skirt the coastline are sign posted from the wharf and vary in length and difficulty, so plan your visit in advance and make sure you leave enough time to return to the ferry wharf.

Ferries depart regularly throughout the day. Bookings are essential and valid for travel on departure time and date indicated on ticket. Ticket is open for the return journey:

Return times
Weekdays - 12.45 pm / 2.30pm / 3.30pm
Weekends and Public Holidays - 2.30pm / 3.30 pm / 4.00pm

Journey time is approximately 25 minutes from downtown Auckland.
All guests must have a valid ticket to travel on the ferry.

Bookings are open for travel from October 18 - September 01, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/546

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

01/09/2022

Taste of Waiheke Tour - Auckland to Waiheke

Tour overview
Best-selling culinary experience visiting four iconic vineyards and artisanal producers
Relaxed light lunch outdoors and wine and craft beer tasting
Return ferry to Waiheke Island from downtown Auckland, and scenic coach transfers to each location
Complimentary All Day pass on the Hop-On Hop-OFF Explorer Bus to further explore
Bookings are essential
Details
Duration: At least 6 hours, including ferry travel
Availability: Tour operates daily, except for Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and ANZAC Day.
Departure time: Tour departs at 11.00am from downtown Auckland Ferry Terminal.

*Tour not available for children.

Please note: Vineyards on this tour may change without notice. People must be 18 or over to attend this tour. Children 16 or above may also attend, so long as they are accompanied by their parent or guardian. Adult prices will apply. A passport, HANZ 18+ Card, or NZ Driver’s License is required as proof of ID to purchase or consume alcohol.

Bookings are open for travel from October 01 - September 01, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/592

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

28/08/2022

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Day Tour - 7.15 am - 7.00pm

Journey south through lush rural farmland to the Hobbiton Movie Set, hidden on private farmland near the town of Matamata. Here, the village of Hobbiton was carefully created in amazing detail as a film location for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie trilogies.

At the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, take a 45-minute guided tour through impressive underground caverns and learn how stalactites, stalagmites and other limestone structures were formed over millions of years. Your tour includes a boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto - glide silently along an underground river as you gaze at the twinkling glowworms overhead.

After visiting Waitomo and Hobbiton, return to Auckland.

Please note the order of this tour is subject to change. If the Waitomo Caves tour cannot operate, a free upgrade to the Ruakuri Cave will be provided subject to availability. If the Ruakuri upgrade is provided, the Waitomo Caves portion is non refundable.

Tour Details & Highlights:

Departs and returns Sky City Coach Terminal, Auckland

Lunch at the Green Dragon Inn

Guided tour of Waitomo Caves

Scenic coach travel and commentary

Pick up and Drop off from selected Central Auckland hotels

Free WiFi is available on this tour

Bookings are open for Travels from October 1 - September 30, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/532

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

24/08/2022

7 Days in 2 Months New Zealand Travel Rail Pass

Travel through New Zealand on our 7 day suggested itinerary from Auckland to Auckland or Auckland to Christchurch or vice versa.

New Zealand Travel Rail Pass is valid for travel on all 3 train services and ferry travel.

Valid for travel between 27 September 2022 – 30 March 2023

Reservations for train & ferry services are compulsory and should be made as soon as possible to avoid disappointment and no later than 48 hours prior to travel. Reservations are subject to availability and can be made by contacting our New Zealand Travel Team.

Please note each traveller needs their own pass.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/passes/pass/13

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

21/08/2022

Hobbiton Day Tour ex Auckland to Rotorua - GL11HR 0715-1415

Take a guided tour of the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, located inside a picturesque 1,250 acre sheep and beef farm near Matamata. Here, the village of Hobbiton was carefully created in amazing detail as a film location for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie trilogies.

During your guided tour of this amazing location, you’ll see sights like Hobbit holes, the Mill and the Green Dragon Inn, and learn how farmland was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-earth. After exploring Hobbiton, tuck into a delicious lunch at the Green Dragon Inn.

Inclusions:

Operates daily

Guided tour of Hobbiton Movie Set

Lunch at the Green Dragon Inn

Free WiFi and USB charging docks on board

Bookings are open for Travels from October 1 - September 30, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/420

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

17/08/2022

6 Days in 1 Month New Zealand Travel Rail Pass

Travel through New Zealand on our 6 day suggested itinerary from Auckland to Auckland or Auckland to Christchurch or vice versa.

New Zealand Travel Rail Pass is valid for travel on all 3 train services and ferry travel.

Valid for travel between 27 September 2022 – 30 March 2023

Reservations for train & ferry services are compulsory and should be made as soon as possible to avoid disappointment and no later than 48 hours prior to travel. Reservations are subject to availability and can be made by contacting our New Zealand Travel Team.

Please note each traveller needs their own pass.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/passes/pass/12

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

14/08/2022

Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner

Delicious gourmet barbeque buffet dinner

Includes an array of New Zealand and local produce, from succulent meats to delicious vegetables and salads

Enjoy travelling to/from Walter Peak High Country Farm on board the historic TSS Earnslaw

Entertaining farm demonstration included

Duration: 4 hours

Steeped in Queenstown’s pioneering history, your experience starts with a Lake Wakatipu cruise in the 105 year old steamship, the TSS Earnslaw. Then disembark at Walter Peak High Country Farm, one of the first farms set up in the region.

Relaxing in the charming ambience of the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, the heart of the stately homestead at Walter Peak, you’ll enjoy gourmet dining prepared by our chef in front of you.

Bookings are open for Travels from December 1 - March 31, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/588

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

10/08/2022

5 Days in 1 Month New Zealand Travel Rail Pass

Travel through New Zealand on our 5 day suggested itinerary from Auckland to Auckland or Auckland to Christchurch or vice versa.

New Zealand Travel Rail Pass is valid for travel on all 3 train services and ferry travel.

Valid for travel between 27 September 2022 – 30 March 2023

Reservations for train & ferry services are compulsory and should be made as soon as possible to avoid disappointment and no later than 48 hours prior to travel. Reservations are subject to availability and can be made by contacting our New Zealand Travel Team.

Please note each traveller needs their own pass.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/passes/pass/11

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

07/08/2022

Walter Peak Farm Tour

Includes a scenic cruise on board the vintage TSS Earnslaw to the farm

A guided walking tour of the farmyard with our rural host

Demonstrations of the farming lifestyle

Morning or afternoon tea, freshly baked at the farm

There are daily departures for the farm tour

Duration: 3 hour 30 mins

Farming in the New Zealand high country is a way of life – and it’s one you can get up close to at Walter Peak.

Situated on picturesque Lake Wakatipu’s south-western shores, Walter Peak High Country Farm is an idyllic place to spend a relaxing few hours. The farm tour itself is a wonderful, interactive experience, with something to keep everyone entertained and happy.

You will be greeted by our rural host upon disembarking the TSS Earnslaw, who will take you to the sheep shearing demonstration and where you will watch the remarkable skill with which the farm dogs round up sheep from the paddocks.

You will have time for a walking tour of the farmyard, visiting the holding pens, where you can help feed the sheep and deer and even get up close to the Scottish Highland Cattle. Then a stroll to the charming old wool shed for morning or afternoon tea. You may have time to stroll through the lakeside gardens before you re-board the TSS Earnslaw for your cruise back to Queenstown.

Bookings are open for Travels from December 1 - March 31, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/601

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

03/08/2022

3 Days in 1 Month Pass is valid for unlimited train and ferry travel over 3 flexible days during a 1 month period.

Travel through New Zealand on our 3 day suggested itinerary from Auckland to Christchurch or vice versa.

New Zealand Travel Rail Pass is valid for travel on all 3 train services and ferry travel.

Valid for travel between 27 September 2022 – 30 March 2023

Reservations for train & ferry services are compulsory and should be made as soon as possible to avoid disappointment and no later than 48 hours prior to travel. Reservations are subject to availability and can be made by contacting our New Zealand Travel Team.

Please note each traveller needs their own pass.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/passes/pass/9

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

01/08/2022

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Fall in love with the Alexander family sheep farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did, as you journey through the unequivocal beauty of the land, with the mighty Kaimai Ranges towering in the distance. Your guide will then es**rt you around the set, showing the intricate detailing, pointing out the most famous locations and explaining how the movie magic was made.

You will be fully guided around the 12 acre set; past Hobbit Holes™, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth™ adventure.

Tours are currently only departing from The Shire's Rest, 501 Buckland Rd, Hinuera, Matamata.

Bookings are open for Travels from October 1 - September 30, 2023.

Book here: https://newzealandrail.com/routes/viewtours/505

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

26/07/2022

The days are getting longer, winter will soon be over

Don't miss the chance to experience this exceptional train ride with our Scenic TranzAlpine train service during this winter season! We can promise the view is different in every season!

Book with us now! We’d love you to share your beautiful photos with us too 📸

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

19/07/2022

Looking for ideas for a weekend away? Why not book and experience the famous TranzAlpine with us?

Book with us now! We’d love you to share your beautiful photos with us too 📸

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

12/07/2022

We always love to receive your wonderful feedback

Keep sending us your photos from your TranzAlpine experience, we really appreciate it! 🤗

Book with us now! We’d love you to share your beautiful photos with us too 📸

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

05/07/2022

A photo shared from one of our valued customers, while travelling aboard the TranzAlpine between Greymouth and Christchurch last weekend

Such a comfortable, relaxed way to travel and to enjoy the panoramic views of the Southern Alps. 🤗

Book with us now! We’d love you to share your beautiful photos with us too 📸

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

28/06/2022

There is still time before the Winter season is over

Don't miss the chance to experience this winter wonderland aboard the Scenic TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth and return.

Book with us now! We’d love you to share your beautiful photos with us too 📸

For bookings or enquiries, contact us at [email protected], phone 0800 143669 (NZ), 1800 359729 (AUS) or visit our website www.newzealandrail.com

11/02/2022