Day 1 | Fly Auckland to Queenstown (D)

Our tour commences today with our flight from Auckland to Queenstown. On arrival, we will meet our driver and enjoy an orientation tour of Queenstown to see the city sights. Immersed in Queenstown’s pioneering history, the evening begins with a cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the 1912 vintage steamship, TSS Earnslaw. Our destination is Walter Peak High Country Farm, one of the region’s first established farms, which remains a working farm to this day. In the ambience of the Colonel’s Homestead, enjoy a delicious gourmet BBQ dinner which the chef will prepare in front of you. After dinner, enjoy an entertaining brief farm experience including a sheep shearing demonstration. On the magical night-time cruise home, enjoy the camaraderie of a sing-a-long with the ship’s pianist or breathe in the fresh night air on the moonlit decks as you watch the lights of Queenstown draw nearer.

Day 2 | Queenstown - Kingston Flyer - Dunedin (B,D)

Take a step back in time on the historical vintage steam train, The Kingston Flyer, powered by the mighty AB795 Steam Locomotive. Relax and unwind along the 14km rail corridor in 100-year-old fully restored wooden carriages on a one-hour journey admiring the spectacular scenery of the Kingston, Lake Foreshore and surrounding high country alpine farmlands. Reboard our coach in Fairlight and travel to Poolburn Gorge, part of the Otago Central Railway track. This section includes multiple bridges, tunnels and impressive engineering feats. Take time to wander this spectacular area and appreciate the workmanship, as well as the stunning landscape. Continue on with a short drive to Hayes Engineering Works and Homestead, the legacy of English immigrants Ernest and Hannah Hayes, who settled in Central Otago after their arrival in 1882. Explore their historic homestead and workshop at your leisure before moving on to Dunedin.

Day 3 | Dunedin (B)

This morning we embark on a sightseeing tour of Dunedin, a city established by settlers from the Presbyterian Church of Scotland in the 1840’s. Nestled on hills at the head of a lovely harbour, Dunedin is renowned for its educational facilities including Otago University, New Zealand’s first university. Travel through the CBD along George and Princes Streets and through the Octagon which features the historic Town Hall and St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral and a statue of the Scottish poet, Robbie Burns. We also include a visit to Baldwin Street (officially the steepest in the world) and Olveston House – an impressive turn-of-the-century house that is still home to lavish furnishings and art collections that have been collected from all corners of the world.

Day 4 | Dunedin - Christchurch (B,D)

Today we head north passing Moeraki, famous for its boulders; mysteriously spherical stones scattered across a beach. Each boulder weighs several tonnes and are up to two metres high. Then we reach Oamaru, a gorgeous harbour town famous for some of New Zealand’s best 19th century architecture and its elegant stone buildings, constructed from locally quarried limestone known as Oamaru stone. This creamy, easily carved stone has been used to create many of the town’s historic structures, giving Oamaru its distinctive architectural charm and earning it the nickname ‘Whitestone City’. Our next stop is the Pleasant Point Museum & Railway, this award-winning attraction features historic steam and diesel engines, including a unique Model T Ford railcar replica, and offers visitors a glimpse into New Zealand’s rich railway history. During our time here we’ll also enjoy an exclusively chartered ride on one of their steam trains. Next, we make our journey through the geometric landscapes of the Canterbury Plains to reach Christchurch. Tonight, we dine on the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant, a colonial-style dining tram, incorporating fine food with city sightseeing on the reconstructed, historic tram network. 

Day 5 | Chrsitchurch - Weka Pass Railway - Hanmer Springs - Christchurch (B,D)

Travelling north our first stop is Waikari, where we’ll embark on an exclusive private charter of a vintage railcar on the historic Weka Pass Railway. We travel on the 12.8-kilometre scenic line through stunning limestone formations, down the escarpment to the Canterbury Plain. This round trip showcases the exceptional beauty of the Waikari and Waipara areas. After the Weka Pass rail experience, we will continue our journey inland to the resort town of Hanmer Springs. With down time here, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch and maybe a swim at the thermal pool (at own cost). This afternoon, we’ll return to Christchurch, and we’ll have dinner at our hotel.

Day 6 | Christchurch - Blenheim (D)

Today we enjoy a scenic adventure with an early morning departure from Christchurch aboard the Coastal Pacific train. (Breakfast on the train at own cost). Enjoy panoramic views through large windows, offering an unmatched experience of the rugged New Zealand coastline. The train travels north, hugging the Pacific Ocean, with glimpses of vast farmlands, rolling hills, and the majestic Kaikōura Ranges. Around mid-morning, pass through the picturesque seaside town of Kaikōura, known for its marine wildlife. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and even whales along the coastline as the train rolls by. As you approach Blenheim, marvel at the transition to Marlborough’s renowned wine country. The endless vineyards stretching into the distance signal your arrival at New Zealand’s premier wine region. Upon arriving in Blenheim, explore the heart of Marlborough, where world-class Sauvignon Blanc awaits. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon visiting a local winery, before checking into our accommodation.

Day 7 | Blenheim (B,L)

This morning we journey on the narrow-gauge Riverside Railway from Brayshaw to Omaka. The railway traverses along the picturesque Taylor River and meanders its way through the middle of the town. Enjoy an insight to the changing landscapes and learn about the history and diversity of the town of Blenheim. Next discover the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre home to a collection of military aircraft from both World Wars, displayed in brilliantly realistic dioramas created by the magic of Weta Workshop and WingNut Films, including Sir Peter Jackson’s own WW1 aircraft and artefact collection. We take a guided tour of the Dangerous Skies Word War II exhibition during our time here. This afternoon, travel through to Picton to embark on the renowned Greenshell Mussel Cruise, a unique experience showcasing the beauty of Marlborough Sounds and the local delicacy – Greenshell mussels. As you cruise through the stunning waterways of Pelorus and Kenepuru Sounds, sit back and take in the breathtaking views of native forests, secluded bays, and picturesque coves. During the tour, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the history of the region and the thriving aquaculture industry. Enjoy a traditional Kiwi barbecue lunch served on board with variety of grilled meats, fresh salads, and delicious sides, all prepared with local ingredients. During our cruise we’ll also visit a working mussel farm to learn about the process of mussel cultivation and harvest. The highlight of the trip comes when you’re served freshly steamed Greenshell mussels, paired perfectly with a glass of Marlborough’s famous Sauvignon Blanc. Savour the flavours while surrounded by the serene beauty of the Sounds. After your cruise, return to Blenheim for a relaxing evening at your leisure.

Day 8 | Blenheim - Auckland (B)

After breakfast we will be transferred from the hotel to Blenheim Airport for our flight back to Auckland.  Tour Ends. Please note, if you wish to continue your journey on rather than take the included return flight to Auckland, please let us know at the time of booking.

South Island Rail Encounters