3 Great Rail Journeys – Premium

Duration: from 3 Days

Price: from $3,889

Departure From: Auckland or Christchurch

Departure Date: Flexible Dates

Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible

Physical Grading: 2

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LOCO Journeys premium Three Great Rail Journeys itinerary will deliver a fully encompassing luxury, rail travel experience.

Including each of New Zealand’s celebrated Great Rail Journeys, you will enjoy the delights of premium rail travel in Scenic Plus. This independent, flexible journey combines top-class rail travel with luxury accommodation choices and premium optional activities.

There is no absolute fixed itinerary with this premium tour. LOCO Journeys can tailor-make an exclusive journey that delivers to your desired destinations and your allowable time.

Fully Flexible Tour
Enjoy premium train travel all the way. This is the best rail journey experience New Zealand has to offer.


Your Scenic Rail Journeys

All three great rail journeys of New Zealand are included in this premium tour.

The TranzAlpine

New Zealand’s premier great rail journey dissects the Southern Alps running East to West from Christchurch to Greymouth and return. A stunning day-trip whatever the season, you can be sure to enjoy the contrasts from the Canterbury Plains to the rugged West Coast punctuated by stunning alpine splendour. Choose to take an optional stop along the way in Arthur’s Pass and find your inner alpine adventurer.

For your journey you will be allocated in Scenic Plus class. Please see below for further details on the inclusions.

TranzAlpine-Springfield
The TranzAlpine traverses the high country of the Southern Alps.

Coastal Pacific

The other of New Zealand’s great South Island train trips is the half-day Coastal Pacific. Tracking the Pacific Ocean from Christchurch to Picton, you will enjoy the marvellous variety of captivating coastline, mountain views of the Kaikoura Ranges and the beautiful scenery of Marlborough and it’s famous wine-growing country. If you want to take more time on this leg of your three great journeys, consider extending your stay in Kaikoura, Blenheim or Picton, each worthy destinations in their own right.

The Coastal Pacific offers two booking classes, Scenic Class and Scenic Plus. For your great rail journey you will enjoy the sights and delights of Scenic Plus. Please see below for further details on the inclusions. Please note, the Coastal Pacific does not operate between the months of May and August.

Coastal Pacific Mountains and Sea
By the mountains and sea, the Coastal Pacific

Northern Explorer

The third of our famous three great rail journeys is the epic Northern Explorer. A tremendous captivating adventure that traverses the varied topography of New Zealand’s North Island. This amazing train ride from Auckland to Wellington and vice versa travels 680 kilometres, from dawn until dusk. Extending your journey and hopping off to visit Waitomo Caves or spending time in the Tongariro National Park are popular options.

As befitting a premium tour, your journey on the Northern Explorer train will be in Scenic Plus class service.

Mount Tongariro
The Northern Explorer traverses stunning landscapes.

Three Great Rail Journeys Premium – Your Highlights

  • Enjoy this trio of great rail journeys, one-way or return depending on your tour preference.
  • Reserved seating on the train journeys
  • Scenic Plus Class with fresh, chef-cooked meals prepared onboard.
  • Table seating, four person bay.
  • Terrific audio commentary telling the stories of what you can see
  • Enjoy the open-air viewing carriage for those amazing photo opportunities
  • Interislander ferry journey across Cook Strait and Marlborough Sounds – Premium Lounge or Cook Strait flight transfer (additional cost)
  • Activities of your choice
  • Private transfers
  • Premium accommodation in your chosen overnight stops
Welcome to your train! Enjoy reserved seating, Scenic Plus Class and a personalised service.

Your Great Rail Experience in Scenic Plus

LOCO Journeys 3 Great Rail Journeys Premium tour, features Scenic Plus class, described as more than a journey, as you are served flavours of the land you travel through.

Inside the refined Scenic Plus Class carriages, you’ll be treated to fresh food, captivating commentary, great hosting and spectacular views, all delivered to your seat while you ease back and enjoy the journey. There really is no better way to discover New Zealand. 

At the heart of the Scenic Plus experience is the refined Scenic Plus Class carriage, with huge panoramic windows, glass shelves and skylights, bathing you in those gorgeous coastal and mountain landscapes. 

With freshly prepared food inspired by the fields that glide past your window and regional wines to match, you’ll be immersed in the flavours of our land. As you admire the views and savour the flavours, our Scenic Plus hosts will recount the stories and histories of the passing landscapes and landmarks. 

When you step off your great rail journeys, you will have experienced some of the best New Zealand has to offer. 

Enjoying the delightful local fare and scenic delights of Scenic Plus
Scenic Plus lunch option

Three Great Rail Journeys Premium – Tour Options

By travelling independently, the team at LOCO Journeys will be able to completely customise your tour on these three great rail journeys. As long as it is possible within the timetable that Kiwirail are operating to, we can ensure you and your travelling companions enjoy all the premium highlights. When making your enquiry, if there are any specific journey requests you have, please make them known.

Premium Accommodation Choices

LOCO Journeys has access to all and every accommodation option that you may wish to consider and for our 3 Great Rail Journeys Premium Tour we will endevour to secure you the very best in accommodation choices that are close to your journeys end, easy to reach and meet the needs of travellers. If you have a specific accommodation request, then please ensure you make it known at the time of booking.

Our bespoke, premium accommodation choices include:

Auckland – The Hotel Britomart

Voted NZ’s #1 hotel, Hotel Britomart represents a soulful, smart and contemporary accommodation choice. The rooms at The Hotel Britomart are havens of calm in the bustle of downtown waterfront Auckland. Auckland’s glittering Waitematā Harbour has rarely looked better from the comfort of the harbour view rooms. The best of downtown Auckland is just outside your front door.

The Hotel Britomart Lobby, Auckland
The Hotel Britomart, Waitemata view room, Auckland

Wellington – Sofitel

Surrounded by lush botanic gardens, Sofitel blends French ‘art de vivre’ with New Zealand’s capital beauty. The Sofitel is central to Parliament’s precinct, premium shopping and Sky Stadium. Guest sanctuaries of luxury rooms and suites feature Sofitel MyBed and modern bathrooms with refined French amenities. Indulge in Club Sofitel enjoying the rituals of breakfast, all day refreshments, Le Goûter afternoon tea, and Apero Chic canapés. Socialise in luxury at La Serre Bar and renowned restaurant Jardin Grill, serving lively food and beverage.

Sofitel Wellington

Picton – Escape to Picton

Escape to Picton is a boutique hotel & restaurant in Picton, Marlborough, New Zealand. The hotel is enviably sited by the town’s waterfront, overlooking the marina. Within a stone’s throw are regular boating tours of the Marlborough Sounds, and connections to the famous Queen Charlotte Track. A mere 20-minute drive separates us from the world famous vineyards of Marlborough’s Wairau and Awatere valleys. Much thought and effort has gone into creating accommodation befitting the astonishingly beautiful Marlborough surrounds.

The Formal Suite, Escape to Picton

Christchurch – The George

As a prestigious boutique hotel, The George guarantees an unparalleled level of service.  It represents the pinnacle of luxury in Christchurch, boasting extensive facilities, comprehensive services, exceptional quality, and meticulous attention to detail.  Our signature style and consistently personalised service create an unforgettable experience.

The George Hotel Christchurch
The George Hotel, Premium Executive Room.

Queenstown – The Spire Hotel

Should your journey include Queenstown, we will include this beautiful boutique experience. Nestled in the heart of Queenstown, New Zealand’s premier holiday destination, The Spire Hotel offers award-winning luxury accommodation within a lively precinct. Ours is a distinct experience, merging exceptional service and impeccable style with genuine hospitality and inner-city vibrancy. Inheriting its name from a nearby church steeple, The Spire is a globally recognised establishment offering more than a luxurious escape. From the rooms to the streets, our boutique service will ensure your stay in Queenstown is every bit as indulgent and relaxing as it is lively and exciting.

Spire Hotel Queenstown
The Spire Hotel, Deluxe Suite.

Regarding Accommodation Options, please note: Our preferred accommodation choices are based on being available at the time of your journey. If these choices are not available, we will recommend alternative premium choices for you to consider.

Depending on your itinerary, time allowed for your journey and intended travel direction, it may be that you are not required or do not choose to stay in each of these listed destinations.

Optional Activities & Premium Excursions

The Three Great Rail Journeys in Scenic Class are incredible experiences. Combine these with some of New Zealand’s ultimate activities you can enjoy once you have arrived in your destination, and you’ll have a complete holiday experience.

LOCO Journeys has partnered with a select group of scenic flight operators to offer stunning scenic excursions across New Zealand. Please ask for more details.

Waiheke Island Experiences – Combine a thrilling helicopter flight with world-class wineries and fine dining to create an amazing luxury experience. Enjoy vineyards, restaurants, art galleries, pristine beaches and much more. Choose from different options including Wine & Dine, Fly & Wine, or enjoy activities such as ziplining and horse trekking, all including a luxury helicopter transfers from Auckland.

Waiheke Scenic Flight from Auckland City.

Wellington City Scenic Flight – Experience a truly unique view of our nation’s capital city from the luxury of our modern helicopter. This exhilarating flight starts in the heart of the capital and takes you over the Wellington CBD and harbour, which look magnificent from the air. Get a bird’s eye view of iconic buildings such as Te Papa, the Beehive, New Zealand’s parliament building. Weather permitting you will be treated to views of the South Island’s Marlborough Sounds across the Cook Strait.

Akaroa & Banks Peninsula by Air – This tour first sees you fly over the city centre to view the progress of the 2011 Earthquake rebuild. We continue on to the beautiful Banks Peninsula and the picturesque French harbour settlement of Akaroa, before touching down on a mountain top to take in yet more magnificent views. Our pilots will personalise this experience for you by sharing their local knowledge and insights of our big backyard as you fly over remarkable sights and landmarks. We have plenty to share with you and can’t wait for you to experience it.

Enjoy the scenic Banks Peninsula by air.

Three Great Rail Journeys – Private Transfers

Transfers from the station to accommodation are included in your journey. Your transfer options and distances will clearly be detailed in your itinerary. Each transfer will be private to only you and your travelling companions.

If you are journeying from overseas and require an airport transfer, we can include this in your tour. Please advise at the time of your enquiry.

Breaking Your Journey

Each of the Three Great Rail Journeys not only travel through some marvelous countryside, but there are plenty of brilliant destinations along the way that if you have time, are worth exploring and enjoying. There is no additional cost to stop en route, so be sure to make the most of your the time in New Zealand.

The most popular stops are National Park or Ohakune in the North Island for volcanic landscapes, and active adventures. Blenheim for the Marlborough vineyards and Kaikoura for the incredible sea-life are considered the must-do stops on the Coastal Pacific. Arthur’s Pass is the popular choice on the TranzAlpine for accessing the heart of the Southern Alps for hiking and other mountain escapades.

Inter-Islander Cook Strait Ferry

If your intended journey crosses islands, we will automatically include the Inter-islander in your great rail journeys premium tour. Once you have crossed the Cook Strait passage, most travellers thoroughly enjoy the delightful cruise through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton.

As part or your Premium tour inclusions, you will be entitled to enjoy the Premium Lounge onboard the Interislander ferry. The Premium Lounge includes spacious and comfortable seating, a complimentary buffet meal accompanied by your choice of regional New Zealand wine or craft beer. The attentive Premium Lounge hosts will make sure you feel right at home during the journey.

Interislander
Interislander in Marlborough Sounds
Buffet fare and a relaxed environment in the Interislander Premium Lounge.

Three Great Rail Journeys; Itinerary Options

Our southbound itinerary outlined below is based on an express trip of 4 days and 3 nights from Auckland to Christchurch suited to travellers who are limited for time. The guide price for this journey is based on enjoying the three great rail journeys, the inter-island ferry, plus three nights in luxury accommodation.

The proposed itinerary should be used as an idea starter. Remember, everything is flexible including where you start and end your journey and what you include. All options and combinations, delivered with comfort in a premium style are possible, just ask us how.

Enjoy the outdoor viewing carriage.

For a detailed itinerary, departure details, and booking conditions for your Premium 3 Great Journeys, please see below.

Departure Dates

  • This tour is a fully flexible, independent tour and can be built to match your preferred dates as long as the train timetable meets your travelling requirements.
  • The Northern Explorer southbound train departing from Auckland to Wellington leaves on a Monday, Thursday and Saturday all year.
  • The tour can only operate including the Coastal Pacific from September to May as the Coastal Pacific does not operate from May to September. A replacement transportation service (public coach, car-hire or private transfer) can be provided during those months as required.

Click here for alternate South Island tours.

Click here for alternate North Island tours.

For our suggested itinerary, departure details, and booking conditions, please see below.

Departure Dates & Timetable

TranzAlpine

  • TranzAlpine operates daily departures in summer.
  • The TranzAlpine does not operate on Christmas day.
  • The train typically operates on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday during winter months.
  • There is one departure each way on operating days.
  • The TranzAlpine departs Christchurch at 08.15 arriving into Greymouth at 13.05.
  • The TranzAlpine departs Greymouth at 14.05 arriving in Christchurch at 19.00.
  • You must be at the station at least 30 minutes prior to departure.

Coastal Pacific

  • Coastal Pacific operating days are Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday
  • The Coastal Pacific departs Christchurch at 07.00 arriving into Picton at 12.40.
  • The Coastal Pacific departs Picton at 13.40 arriving in Christchurch at 19.20.
  • You must be at the station at least 20 minutes prior to departure.
  • Please note, the Coastal Pacific does not operate during the months of May-August.

Northern Explorer

  • There is one Northern Explorer departure on operating days
  • Northern Explorer Auckland to Wellington trains depart southbound on Monday, Thursday and Saturday.
  • Northern Explorer Wellington to Auckland trains depart northbound on Friday, Sunday, and Wednesday.
  • The Northern Explorer departs Auckland at 07.45 arriving into Wellington at 18.25 on Monday, Thursday and Saturday
  • The Northern Explorer departs Wellington at 07.55 arriving in Auckland at 18.50 on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday
  • You must be at the station at least 30 minutes prior to departure.

Pricing Notes

  • Tour pricing will be dependent on your preferred itinerary including rail journeys, ferry, accommodation and activity inclusions. A final price will be quoted once all tour elements have been confirmed.
  • LOCO Journeys standard terms and conditions should be referred to here
  • The from price for our suggested southbound itinerary per person based on shared accommodation.

Tour Itinerary

Southbound Itinerary; Day 1 | Auckland - Northern Explorer Train - Wellington
Your epic three great rail journeys begins on the Northern Explorer departing Auckland Strand Station. Leaving in the early hours you will cross Hobson Bay with views of the Waitemata Harbour and Rangitoto Island briefly to the left before traversing Auckland's southern suburbs. New Zealand's beautiful landscapes will unfold in front of you within thirty minutes of your departure and this is where the journey really begins. The train passes through the Waikato Plains, the King Country, before ascending onto the Central Plateau. Tongariro National Park, with its three spectacular volcanic mountains – Tongariro, Ngāuruhoe and Ruapehu is a terrific highlight, a place of extremes and surprises where snow-blanketed fields, ancient lava flows and dense beech forests can be seen side by side. Here the train meets a series of steepling viaducts that bridge deep ravines carved by rivers forming on the slopes of Ruapehu. On the south-eastern edge of the Central Plateau the train crosses the dramatic barren landscape of the Rangipo Desert. The Desert Road is a notoriously dangerous stretch to travel by car, especially in winter but when travelling through the Central Plateau by train its a fascinating expanse of tussock land that gives magnificent unobstructed views of the imposing Mount Ruapehu. Rumbling into the Rangitikei District and the view of the Rangitikei River carving a path through sandstone cliffs is another of the highlights of the Northern Explorer train trip. As early evening approaches the train wends its way along the Kapiti Coast arriving into Wellington in time to explore the city’s nightlife and taste some gourmet delights at one of the many renowned eateries. If time is on your side and the timetable allows, be sure to consider taking overnight stops in popular destinations such as Waitamo Caves or Tongariro National Park, or extending your stay for additional nights in Wellington. Please request at the time of booking.
This morning we leave Te Ika-a-Maui the North Island and take to the water on the inter-island ferry crossing the Cook Strait to Picton. If ever a ferry trip was more like a cruise, this is it! Once you enter the sheltered Marlborough Sounds, you will instantly relax as your ferry crossing turns into a leisurely cruise through the narrow channels and the most wonderful gentle scenery. Your lunchtime arrival into Picton will allow you to stretch your legs for a short while before boarding the Coastal Pacific, the second of your three great New Zealand rail journeys. From Picton to Christchurch in the afternoon sun, the Coastal Pacific's journey along the South Island's north-east coast is one to savour. From craggy coastal cliffs and rocky outcrops to modern vineyards and rustic farmsteads, the Coastal Pacific cruises through the full spectrum of New Zealand culture and character. Throw in a healthy dose of seals, seagulls, dolphins and the occasional whale, and the Coastal Pacific train easily ranks as one of best days out in New Zealand. The Main North Line railway, on which the Coastal Pacific runs, began its journey as two separate railways - one heading north from Christchurch to Kaikoura and one heading south from Picton to Blenheim. When it came to connecting them together, from Parnassus in the south to Mirza in the north, the impenetrable Kaikoura mountain ranges forced the railway to the very edge of the world. Today, this sensational stretch along the Pacific Coast is the highlight of the Coastal Pacific journey. Here the Coastal Pacific voyages along New Zealand's wild coastlines, pressed against the sea by rugged cliffs that arise from the Pacific Ocean and continue climbing onward and upward to form the peaks of the Kaikoura mountains. It is pure magic, with New Zealand's best scenery, wildlife and engineering feats filling the windows as the Coastal Pacific winds around bend after bend after bend. And as the train skirts around secluded bays and across isolated beaches, have your camera ready because words cannot do justice to the beauty that unfolds. Eventually as you make your way back inland through many tunnels and bridges the train finds its way across the Waimakariri River and Canterbury Plains, arriving into Christchurch at 19.20. From Christchurch station, you will head to your chosen accommodation to relax and refect on another great day. Time allowing, we'd recommend consideration is given to taking overnight stops at Picton, Blenheim and Kaikoura to enjoy and delight in some of the many attractions this beautiful part of the world has to offer. LOCO Journeys can help you make the right choice.
An early start this morning and a return to Christchurch station for your 08.15 departure to Greymouth on the most famous of New Zealand's spectacular scenic rail journeys. Some would argue you've saved the best rail journey until last. The TranzAlpine begins its journey by roaming across the vast patchwork plains of Canterbury - one of New Zealand's primary agricultural regions. On the far side of the plains, you will arrive at Springfield where the Southern Alps rise from the plains like megalithic skyscrapers, creating a seemingly impenetrable barrier. For many years, Springfield was the end of the line with the Alps forming a formidable blockade. Eventually, a route to the West Coast through the Alps was agreed upon and construction began. This section, between Springfield and the township of Arthur's Pass, is considered a masterpiece of railway engineering and is the section for which the TranzAlpine is most famed. The route firstly heads north-east to join the Waimakariri River gorge. This aqua-blue river will appear and disappear out of your window several times as the TranzAlpine clings and climbs up the cliffs above it. During the ascent to the high plains of Craigieburn, there are 15 short tunnels and four dramatic viaducts, including the 72-metre high Staircase Viaduct. The most iconic views come at the far end of the Craigieburn Straight, where the high plains stretch out to give a stunning view of Mount Binser and the edges of Arthur's Pass National Park. Shortly after, the train meets again with the Waimakariri River and then crosses it to reach Arthur's Pass. This section is stunningly beautiful and is where the famous views of the TranzAlpine crossing the Waimakariri River are taken. From Arthur's Pass, the TranzAlpine descends through the 8.5km long Otira Tunnel. This landmark structure was the second longest tunnel in the world when it was completed in 1923. It's historic completion also marked the completion of the Midland Line and the opening of the railway line from Christchurch to Greymouth. The Otira Tunnel marks the transition from Canterbury to West Coast and the landscape becomes remarkably different on the far side. The weather is typically wetter and the scenery more green and vibrant. The TranzAlpine follows a series of river valleys as it descends to Greymouth, starting with the Otira River and the Taramakau River. During these stretches, you are nestled intimately between the mountainous hills, with the rugged, broad, riverbeds meandering alongside the tracks. At Inchbonnie the TranzAlpine loops back on itself to head around the lush lake valleys to Moana, on the banks of the spectacular Lake Brunner. The TranzAlpine then joins the Arnold River valley which spills out into the Grey River valley on its final stretch before finally pulling into Greymouth. Make sure you have had lunch because upon disembarking, you will join an afternoon tour to the Punakaiki Blow Holes and Pancake Rocks Tour. Leaving Greymouth, you will travel via the Great Coast Road, rated as one of the top 10 coastal drives in the World. With some of the best scenery on offer you will need a camera on hand to capture the views. This 45 minute drive will take you to the small coastal township of Punakaiki where you will get to view the famous blow holes and pancake rock natural formations. Your guide will give you time to explore the area and local shops before checking out Truman Track, a short walk to more stunning scenery. If time allows you may also visit The Cavern, a open cave located in near the township. The blow holes and pancake rocks is one of New Zealand’s must do activities and one not to be missed. Upon the completion of your afternoon tour, you will be dropped off at your accommodation.
This morning you will be collected from your accommodation. Explore West Coast will contact you to confirm your pickup request. Please wait out the front by the street of your establishment or at reception. Please make sure you have checked out of your motel unit. Walk amongst the tree tops while viewing the majestic Lake Mahinapua and then visit Hokitika Gorge with its vivid turquoise water. This tour includes, an exhilarating treetop adventure among temperate rainforest giants. Experience life with the birds high in the ancient Rimu and Kamahi tree canopy. Easy access for all to enjoy along a steel platform 20 metres high and over 450 metres long. Gently sway in harmony with the forest on the Mahinapua Springboard. View the exquisite Lake Mahinapua through the richly diverse forest foliage. Thrill seekers will feel their hearts pump and the adrenalin rush as they climb to the top of Hokitika Tower 40 metres above the forest floor. Be inspired by a sensational vista of the majestic snow-capped Southern Alps, Lake Mahinapua and the Tasman Sea. The famous Hokitika Gorge; walk across the swing bridge and enjoy this magical place. The vivid turquoise water surrounded by lush native bush, it is well worth a visit and a key photo stop on the West Coast must do list. If time allows your tour guide will call into the Jade Factory in Hokitika. For many New Zealanders Pounamu – also known as NZ Jade or greenstone, is more than a souvenir – it has a treasured spiritual significance. Pounamu is found in many places on the West Coast and is prized for its strength, durability, and beauty. At the conclusion of your morning tour, you will be dropped off at Greymouth train station for your return TranzAlpine journey to Christchurch arriving in the early evening. .

For more information about this tour, price queries and updates on specials, please Enquire Now.