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NZ Rail and Cruise 19 Day Discovery

Duration: 19 Days

Price: from NZ$12,895 - Includes $1,200 pp saving

Departure From: Christchurch

Departure Date: Spring/Summer 26-27-28

Tour Type: Escorted Tour

Meal Plan: B&B and selected Meals

Physical Grading: 2/5

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Join us on this comprehensive 19 day land, New Zealand rail and cruise journey which really does allow you to discover New Zealand.

Explore New Zealand’s highlights, riding on iconic rail lines and taking an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound/Patea. Take the TranzAlpine train tour across the Southern Alps, ride the Glenbrook Steam Train journey aboard the Coastal Pacific. Explore Stewart Island/Rakiura, the country’s southernmost community, visit Queenstown, cruise Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, and discover Rotorua.

With a comprehensive itinerary that starts in the Garden City Christchurch, you will enjoy premier experiences by New Zealand rail and cruise the famous New Zealand fiords. Complemented by first class hotels, an experienced tour guide, luxury vehicles, this trip wraps everything neatly into an ideal holiday for rail-fans and their companions.

Big savings are available per couple – see pricing below

All the major sightseeing locations throughout New Zealand are included, as your New Zealand Rail and Cruise Discovery touches cities, mountains, vintage railways and sea throughout this wonderful journey.

New Zealand Rail and Cruise Discovery Highlights

  • Experience the romance of rail travel aboard the TranzAlpine train as you traverse the South Island from coast to coast.
  • Cruise the full length of breathtaking Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, framed by soaring cliffs and waterfalls.
  • Be captivated on a Doubtful Sound overnight cruise, with the rare experience of staying onboard in serene wilderness.
  • Explore the untouched beauty of Stewart Island / Rakiura, a sanctuary of birdlife and natural wonders.
  • Immerse yourself in Māori culture during a moving and memorable evening at Te Pa Tū.
  • Journey aboard the Coastal Pacific train, following the rugged coastline through to the Marlborough Sounds region.
  • Ride the charming vintage Glenbrook steam train, a nostalgic rail experience.
  • Celebrate your journey with a unique, interactive farewell dinner in Auckland.
  • Travel in comfort and ease with the expertise of your Tour Director, driver, and local guides throughout.
  • Includes
The idyllic Stewart Island – an optional excursion

Looking for Freedom to Travel with Flexibility? Discover Our Signature Independent TranzAlpine Tours Here

Your New Zealand Train Experiences

The TranzAlpine Train

Travelling from Christchurch to the West Coast by train on your New Zealand Rail and Cruise Discovery couldn’t be easier or more beautiful. Weaving between the peaks of the Southern Alps, soaring over breathtaking viaducts, meandering along the banks of the braided Waimakariri River, descending through the 8.5km long Otira tunnel into the lush river valleys of the West Coast. It’s all ahead of you and the TranzAlpine train is rated among the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

Springfield Station
The TranzAlpine Train

With spacious carriages and huge panoramic windows, you can sit back and enjoy New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery and the sociable environment of the train. Spend time with old friends or make new friends and see the best of New Zealand at the same time. Upon your arrival on the West Coast, you’ll be energised and ready to explore.

One unique feature of the great New Zealand rail journeys is the ability to step outside and enjoy the great New Zealand outdoors while you travel in the open-air viewing carriage. Feel the breeze ruffling your hair, the tingling kiss of fresh mountain air. Smell the forest aromas and the cool morning dew. Feel immersed in the landscapes and soak in the views. The open-air viewing carriage brings you true outdoor experiences while you travel through the land.

Coastal-Pacific-older-couple-inside
Onboard the TranzAlpine

The Coastal Pacific Train

The Coastal Pacific train is one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking rail journeys, linking Christchurch to Picton in a seamless blend of coastal and mountain scenery. This iconic route delivers an unforgettable experience, showcasing landscapes that are as diverse as they are dramatic.

From Christchurch, the train travels through the patchwork fields of the Canterbury Plains before reaching the Pacific coastline. Here, the tracks hug the seashore, offering incredible views of the ocean on one side and the towering Kaikōura Ranges on the other. Few train rides in the world provide such a striking contrast, with snowy peaks and crashing waves visible in a single glance.

The journey passes through Kaikōura, a region renowned for its rich marine life. Keep an eye out for fur seals sunning themselves on the rocks, or seabirds skimming above the waves as the train winds its way north.

Beyond Kaikōura, the scenery softens into rolling hills and vineyards as you enter the famed Marlborough wine region, home to some of New Zealand’s finest vintages, including its signature Sauvignon Blanc. As the train approaches Picton, passengers are treated to glimpses of the stunning Marlborough Sounds, a picturesque network of inlets, bays, and forested islands.

Coastal Pacific
The Coastal Pacific Train

New Zealand Rail and Cruise – The included cruise experiences you’ll love.

These featured cruises are carefully crafted experiences designed to take your holiday from amazing to absolutely extraordinary on 19 brilliant days.

Cruise Milford Sound/Piopiotahi – Journey through the beautiful Fiordland National Park on your way to magnificent Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Once you arrive, set sail on a cruise along the full length of its pristine waters, basking in all the natural wonders you encounter. Cruise Duration: 2 hours

South Island LOCO Journeys
Be wowed by the dramatic scenery in Milford Sound

Cruise Marlborough Sound – Sail through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds on the Interislander ferry, where forested hills, hidden bays, and sparkling waters unfold around you. Spot seabirds, playful dolphins, and secluded coves as you enjoy one of New Zealand’s most scenic and memorable ferry experiences. Cruise Duration: 3.5 hours

Interislander
The Interislander in Marlborough Sound – possibly the most beautiful ferry journey in the world.

Cruise Doubtful Sound/Patea – An overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound / Patea is one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable experiences, offering the chance to explore Fiordland’s largest and most remote fiord. Known as the “Sound of Silence,” this vast wilderness is celebrated for its sheer size, unspoiled beauty, and profound tranquillity. As the boat glides through the fiord, expect moments of absolute stillness when the engines are cut and only the sounds of nature remain: birdsong, the rush of waterfalls, or the splash of dolphins playing nearby. Wildlife encounters are a highlight, with opportunities to spot bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, and even rare Fiordland crested penguins. Dinner onboard offers hearty flavours, and afterwards, you can unwind with fellow travellers or stargaze beneath an unpolluted night sky. Morning brings another magical scene as mist rises off the fiord and sunlight touches the peaks, carrying with it lasting memories of Fiordland’s wild and untouched grandeur. Cruise Duration: Overnight

NZ Rail and Cruise Discovery
Stunning landscapes and impressive boats combine to make Doubtful Sound an unforgettable experience.

For a detailed itinerary, departure details, and booking conditions for your New Zealand Rail and Cruise Discovery tour, please see below. Please note, savings are based on a per person discount and subject to regular change.

Departure Date From ChristchurchPricing & Notes
12 September 2026Was $14,095, Now $13,395pp – Save $700pp
26 September 2026Was $14,095, Now $13,395pp – Save $700pp
10 October 2026Was $14,495, Now $13,795pp – Save $700pp
24 October 2026Was $14,495, Now $13,795pp – Save $700pp
21 November 2026Was $14,495, Now $14,095pp – Save $400pp
09 January 2027Was $14,495, Now $13,295pp – Save $1200pp
23 January 2027Was $14,495, Now $13,295pp – Save $1200pp
06 February 2027Was $14,495, Now $13,295pp – Save $1200pp
13 February 2027Was $14,495, Now $13,295pp – Save $1200pp
20 February 2027Was $14,495, Now $13,295pp – Save $1200pp
06 March 2027Was $14,495, Now $13,295pp – Save $1200pp
03 April 2027Was $14,095, Now $12,895pp – Save $1200pp
New Season 2027-2028Please note, the new season itinerary may vary from the original published here.
04 September 2027Was $14,395, Now $13,195pp – Save $600pp
18 September 2027Was $14,395, Now $13,195pp – Save $600pp
09 October 2027Was $14,595, Now $13,395pp – Save $1200pp
23 October 2027Was $14,595, Now $13,395pp – Save $1200pp
13 November 2027Was $14,595, Now $13,395pp – Save $1200pp
08 January 2028Was $14,595, Now $13,395pp – Save $1200pp
22 January 2028Was $14,595, Now $13,395pp – Save $1200pp
05 February 2028Was $14,595, Now $13,395pp – Save $1200pp
19 February 2028Was $14,595, Now $13,395pp – Save $1200pp
26 February 2028Was $14,595, Now $13,395pp – Save $1200pp
11 March 2028Was $14,595, Now $13,395pp – Save $1200pp
18 March 2028Was $14,595, Now $13,395pp – Save $1200pp
25 March 2028Was $14,595, Now $13,395pp – Save $1200pp
08 April 2028Was $14,595, Now $13,395pp – Save $1200pp

Please note, couple savings are based on a per person discount and subject to change.

Enquire Now or Click here for alternate rail-based New Zealand tours.

Tour Inclusions

  • Sightseeing and tours as indicated in the itinerary.
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • 17 nights accommodation in premium hotels
  • 1 night aboard your boat on Doubtful Sound
  • Travel on board the scenic trains, the Coastal Pacific and famous TranzAlpine,
  • Cruise between Wellington and Picton on the Interislander scenic ferry
  • Enjoy the services of a tour leader and the company of your travelling companions.

Pricing Notes

  • Save up to $1,200 per person* This offer is valid on select trips and departure dates until 31 May 2027 or until sold out (whichever is earlier). The amounts saved will vary whether the booking is per couple or per person. Price and promotion subject to availability and validity. Available to travellers departing from New Zealand. Pricing and save amounts are in New Zealand dollars but may fluctuate due to changes in surcharges, taxes or currency.
  • Advertised price based on per person, double share
  • Prices quoted require deposit at the time of booking – Some promotions include an Early Payment Discount with discount valid when paying in full 10 months prior to travel
  • A single supplement is available
  • Price is subject to change unless paid in full
  • Pricing is indicative due to fluctuations
  • Full terms and conditions will be advised at the time of booking.
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Tour Itinerary

Day 1 | Christchurch (D)
Be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Spend the afternoon relaxing before enjoying a Signature Experience, followed by a welcome dinner. Today's Signature Experience is an enjoyable Tram Ride Through Christchurch Step aboard a beautifully restored heritage tram and embark on a tour of Christchurch. Enjoy drinks and canapés as you spot many of the city’s iconic sights. You’ll also learn about the regeneration of this vibrant city following the devastating 2010 and 2011 earthquakes.
Spend this morning on your Freedom of Choice activity. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your leisure. Freedom of Choice Option 1 – Akaroa Nature Cruise Set off on a cruise around Akaroa's extinct volcanic crater and admire spectacular scenery while keeping watch for local wildlife, including New Zealand Hector's dolphins, native fur seals, penguins and seabirds. Freedom of Choice Option 2 – Punting on the Avon Carving a path across Christchurch, the Avon River offers a unique vantage from which to admire views of the city. Settle into your seat as a skilled punter dressed in Edwardian attire propels your vessel forward at a leisurely pace. Freedom of Choice Option 3 – Ōtautahi Christchurch City Meander Walking Tour Discover the history of Ōtautahi, the Māori word for Christchurch, on an informative, guided walking tour. Discover traditional Māori and settlers' stories, wander the city's laneways, and enjoy tastings from local producers.
Today, you ride aboard the iconic TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth, considered one of the world’s great rail journeys. Enjoy awe-inspiring views as you cross the Southern Alps from the east coast to the west. After your arrival in Greymouth, board a coach for a scenic trip down the west coast to glacier country, and the lovely town of Franz Josef.
Enjoy spectacular views as you drive today towards New Zealand’s adventure capital Queenstown. The Haast Pass follows a trail traditionally used by Maori people in search of greenstone or jade, and cuts through a stunning mountain landscape highlighted by waterfalls, rushing rivers and lakes.
Choose from a host of exciting sightseeing opportunities today. Visit filiming locations from The Lord of the Rings; enjoy a cruise on Lake Wakatipu; take a Skippers Canyon adventure; join a river safari along Dart River; or enjoy a winery tour.
Travel from Queenstown along the incredibly scenic Milford Road through Fiordland National Park to join your Signature Experience cruise. Marvel at the spectacle of Milford Sound on a cruise of its full length. Cruise beneath tall cliffs on the flanks of Mitre Peak, get close to tumbling waterfalls, and view seals, penguins and a variety of seabirds. Later, return to the lovely lakeside town of Te Anau, where you savour a special Taste of Fiordland dinner featuring local specialties.
Take the short drive from Te Anau to lakeside Manapouri, where you join your Signature Experience cruise. Remote and mysterious Doubtful Sound is one of Fiordland’s most magical places. Step aboard your ship here for an unforgettable overnight cruise to discover rugged peaks, hidden islets and pristine rainforests.
Disembark your overnight cruise and head for Invercargill. On arrival in the early afternoon, choose to explore the township, or take in the included visit to Bill Richardson Transport World. Alternatively, you may decide to relax at the hotel. Visit Bill Richardson Transport World in Invercargill, which houses an amazing collection of classic cars and trucks, from Model-T Fords to VW Kombis and a spectacular 1940 Dodge Airflow Texaco tanker. There are more than 300 vehicles on show, the largest private collection of its type in the world.
Spend the day on your Freedom of Choice activity in Invercargill. Enjoy some amazing sightseeting activities. Choose from Stewart Island Day Trip with Return Ferry Transfers. or visit Bill Richardson Transport World and Motorcycle Mecca Guided Tour or relax and then enjoy High Tea at Distinction Invercargill Hotel.
This morning, travel from Invercargill to Dunedin, a city renowned for its Victorian and Edwardian architecture and Scottish heritage. Here, spend time on an enriching Signature Experience. Afterwards, return to Dunedin and enjoy the local sights, before arriving at your hotel.
Head north through stunning countryside to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, the centrepiece of which is New Zealand’s highest mountain peak. Tonight, enjoy a buffet dinner in your hotel’s Alpine Restaurant.
Today you head back to Christchurch, stopping en route to view the much-photographed Church of the Good Shepherd in Tekapo. Enjoy a city sights tour on arrival in Christchurch.
Enjoy a rail journey along the rugged east coast to Picton. Join the Coastal Pacific train at Christchurch Station, and ride all the way to beautiful Picton in the Marlborough Sounds region. Take the afternoon ferry across Cook Strait to Wellington, enjoying stunning views of the Marlborough and Queen Charlotte Sound as you begin your journey.
Choose how you’d like to spend today with a range of sightseeing activities on offer. Tonight, we will reconvene for dinner. Your choices include a visit to Weta Workshop, a tour of Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum. Alternatively, take a 4WD adventure on a Seal Coast Safari.
This morning, depart Wellington for the journey to Rotorua, stopping en route at Lake Taupō and Huka Falls. A sight to behold, the vast lake was formed nearly 2,000 years ago after a devastating volcanic eruption left a crater in the earth that is roughly the size of Singapore. Nearby, Huka Falls is one of New Zealand's most revered natural attractions. The force of the falls is so powerful, it can fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool in only 11 seconds. After time to explore, continue to Rotorua.
Spend your morning enjoying a Freedom of Choice activity, and this evening, immerse yourself in a culturally rich Signature Experience at Te Pa Tu where you will enjoy a feast of Maori delicacies and Haka perfomrnaces. Your choices today are a Rotorua Icons tour, a Hobbiton Movie Set Tour, an Eco-Thermal Tour, or Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa
Enjoy a ride on the heritage Glenbrook Steam train before heading to Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city.
This morning select your activity from our Freedom of Choice offerings. These include: an All Blacks Experience, Unleashed – A Weta Workshop Experience, Te Wao Nui – The Living Realm at Auckland Zoo, and a Bush and Beach Wilderness Adventure. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Tonight, we gather at our hotel for a farewell dinner.
Today your tour ends. A transfer will take you to Auckland Airport. If you want to complete all of New Zealand's Great Train Journeys, considering taking the Northern Explorer to Wellington. Talk to your LOCO Journeys consultant at the time of booking.

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