New Zealand
There are relatively few scenic rail journeys in New Zealand but wow, they deliver truly spectacular travel experiences! The TranzAlpine, Northern Explorer and Coastal Pacific can all be considered world-class rail journeys. Combine these iconic rail trips with unique accommodation and activities, and our featured tours will take you to the destinations you want to see, with some stunning vistas along the way.
View our tour selection below or contact us to find out more about pricing and departures.
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NZ Rail Tours Off the Beaten Track by Train Short Rail Breaks Day Trips by Train Private Touring Signature Tours by LOCO Steam Train & Railfan Tours
New Zealand Rail Tours
Choose from our unrivalled choice of New Zealand's finest Escorted Tours or fully flexible Independent Rail Holidays.
13 Day Twin Rail Journeys of NZ
Departure From: Queenstown
13 Days | from NZ$3,699
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Enjoy the premier twin rail journeys of New Zealand on each island on this succinct, independent 13 day countrywide tour from Queenstown to Auckland.
View Tour15 Day New Zealand Rail Highlights
Departure From: Auckland
15 Days | from NZ$9,749
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Join us on this fabulous scenic guided New Zealand rail highlights tour through the heart and soul of New Zealand, featuring all three Great Rail Journeys.
View Tour20 Day New Zealand Rail Journey
Departure From: Auckland
20 Days | from NZ $5,999
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
This NZ rail holiday will deliver you the best scenic attractions and memorable journeys on each of NZ’s three scenic rail experiences.
View Tour3 Great Journeys by LOCO
Departure From: Auckland or Christchurch.
from 3 Days | from NZ$1,869
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
If your ambition is to travel on each of NZ’s scenic trains, this tour will achieve your dream. A fully flexible independent tour, LOCO will match your time, budget and expectations.
View Tour8 Day TranzAlpine Train, Glaciers & Fiords
Departure From: Christchurch
8 Days | from NZ$2,745
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
The combination of TranzAlpine Train, Glaciers and Fiords offers one of the greatest lure’s of travelling in the South Island of New Zealand. The spectacular and diverse scenery catches your breathe at every turn.
View Tour
Art Deco Delights Train Tour
Departure From: Wellington
5 Days | NZ$3,990
Tour Type: Escorted
Experience Napier’s world-famous Art Deco Festival across 5 fantastic days. Enjoy a scenic steam rail journey there and back as you absorb the beautiful countryside and immerse yourself in Napier’s unique Art Deco festival.
Enquire NowAuckland to Christchurch Rail Tour; Cities & Coastal Highlights
Departure From: Auckland
10 Days | from NZ$5,749
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
This 10-day city and coastal highlights tour will take you on a journey through the North and South Island’s from Auckland to Christchurch.
View TourChristchurch to Queenstown Train Tour
Departure From: Christchurch
5 Days | from $2,359
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
An unforgettable adventure that combines the luxury of the TranzAlpine train with the natural beauty of Franz Josef Glacier and the world-renowned Milford Sound.
View TourChristchurch to Queenstown; Alpine Highlights
Departure From: Christchurch
7 Days | from NZ$4,999
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Join us on this week long guided scenic train tour, through the mighty Southern Alps, to the wild West Coast and on to Queenstown.
View TourCoastal Pacific Train Wildlife Encounter
Departure From: Christchurch
2 Days | from NZ$749
Tour Type: Independent Tour
See the majestic seabirds or get up close to dolphins or whales and discover the spectacular wildlife of Kaikōura on the Coastal Pacific Train.
View TourForgotten World Adventure from Wellington Return
Departure From: Wellington
5 Days | from NZ$2,299
Tour Type: Independent Tour
Take the ultimate scenic rail journey through New Zealand to the historic location of Taumarunui and enjoy a forgotten world…
View TourNorth Island Heartland Rail Tour
Departure From: Wellington
11 Days | NZ$6.990
Tour Type: Escorted
This heritage rail experience focuses on different historical influences through the North Island’s central heart, with steam & diesel hauled heritage trains linking your tour together, on a journey into the shaping of a nation.
Enquire NowNorth Island Rail Highlights
Departure From: Auckland or Wellington
5 Days | from NZ$1,429
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
This 5 day independent rail holiday offers the best North Island rail highlights featuring New Zealand’s epic Northern Explorer.
View TourNZ Rail Adventure – A 15 Day Rail Odyssey
Departure From: Auckland
15 Days | from NZ$8,795 - Includes $1000pp Saving
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Discover New Zealand on a 15-day NZ Rail Adventure. Ride iconic trains, explore scenic highlights, and enjoy a seamless small-group travel experience.
View TourNZ Rail and Cruise 19 Day Discovery
Departure From: Christchurch
19 Days | NZ$12,595 - Includes $1,200pp Saving
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Join us on this comprehensive 19 day land, New Zealand rail and cruise journey from Christchurch to Wellington. Discover New Zealand on this wonderful tour.
View TourNZ’s Northern Rail Highlights Tour
Departure From: Auckland
6 Days | from NZ$3,399
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Journey between Auckland and Wellington aboard the Northern Explorer train on a six day escorted adventure.
View TourNZ’s Southern Rail Highlights from Wellington
Departure From: Wellington
11 Days | from NZ$7,199
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Join us on tour across Cook Strait, past the mighty Southern Alps and through the Wild West Coast to beautiful Queenstown. This journey features the Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine.
View TourPremium Auckland to Christchurch Rail Tour
Departure From: Auckland
12 Days | from NZ $9,999
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Explore New Zealand’s cities and sea journey via its remote regions, travelling on this premium, luxury Auckland to Christchurch rail tour. It doesn’t get much better.
View TourPremium Auckland to Wellington North Island Train Tour
Departure From: Auckland
8 Days | from NZ$6,799
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Embark on a remarkable rail journey from travelling through volcanic peaks and New Zealand’s most idyllic natural landscapes.
View TourPremium Christchurch to Queenstown Train Tour
Departure From: Christchurch
7 Days | from NZ$6,399
Tour Type: Escorted Tours
Join us on an unforgettable journey through the South Island on a Christchurch to Queenstown train adventure.
View TourPremium New Zealand Rail Tour – Auckland to Queenstown
Departure From: Auckland
17 Days | from NZ$15,199
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Indulge in luxury New Zealand rail as you journey through iconic landscapes and vibrant cities on three world-famous trains from Auckland to Queenstown.
View TourPremium Wellington to Christchurch Train Tour
Departure From: Wellington
6 Days | from NZ$4,999
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Join us on this guided captivating Wellington to Christchurch train tour. Glide across the magnificent Cook Strait, along coastal beaches and through mountain valleys.
View TourPremium Wellington to Queenstown Rail Tour
Departure From: Wellington
11 Days | from NZ$9,499
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Discover the South Island in style on this luxury rail tour. Journey in comfort across the majestic Southern Alps, trace wild coastlines, and conclude with the awe-inspiring Milford Sound.
View TourRails to the West; Americana Train Tour
Departure From: Wellington
6 Days | NZ$3,990
Tour Type: Escorted
Experience Whanganui’s best kept secret and explore and enjoy New Plymouth’s incredible Americana celebrations on this 6 day getaway. Travel to Wellington, Taranaki and the river city of Whanganui.
Enquire NowSignature Rail, Cruise and Coach 2026/2027
Departure From: Auckland
19 Days | from NZD $12,359 includes $250 pp saving
Tour Type: Escorted
Enjoy this 19 day mid size group rail cruise and coach adventure, a premium journey that delivers the best of New Zealand’s rail experiences.
View TourSir Edmund Hillary Explorer Autumn 2026
Departure From: Christchurch
11 Days | NZ$6,995
Tour Type: Escorted
Join the unique 11 day Autumn tour! Highlights include the Mountaineer train to Arthur’s Pass, TSS Earnslaw steamship to Walter Peak, Kingston Flyer, Taieri Gorge train and a two night stay at the Hermitage in Aoraki Mount Cook.
Enquire NowSir Edmund Hillary Explorer Pinnacle Tour with Peter Hillary
Departure From: Christchurch
16 Days | NZ$24,995
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
The Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Pinnacle Tour is an exclusive 15-day luxury journey through New Zealand’s South Island, hosted by Peter Hillary and reserved for a select group of discerning travellers.
View TourSir Edmund Hillary Explorer Rail Tour 2026/2027
Departure From: Christchurch
11 or 14 Days | from NZ$7,495
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
This epic journey circumnavigates New Zealand’s South Island, combining luxury coach travel with six remarkable rail experiences, including heritage steam – inspired by New Zealand’s most celebrated explorer.
View TourSir Edmund Hillary Explorer Tour Summer 2026
Departure From: Christchurch
13 Days | NZ$8,495 - FREE Cable Car Ride*
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Inspired by one of the most iconic adventurers of our time, this is an epic journey by heritage steam train and luxury coach. FREE Wellington Cable Car trip when you book with LOCO Journeys.
View TourSir Edmund Hillary Explorer Winter 2026
Departure From: Christchurch
12 Days | from NZ$7,995
Tour Type: Escorted
Taking inspiration from one of the world’s most celebrated explorers, this Winter Edition offers NZ’s best rail adventure tour with snow on top!
View TourSouth Island Rail Encounters
Departure From: Auckland
8 Days | from NZ$6,990
Tour Type: Escorted
All aboard for an unforgettable South Island rail encounter, where stunning landscapes and exclusive rail experiences await!
View TourSpirit of the Antipodes; Private North Island Train Tour
Departure From: Auckland
11 Days | NZ$6,690
Tour Type: Escorted
Journey through a landscape rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and captivating contrasts, from volcanic peaks to rolling farmland, from historic townships to sweeping coastal vistas. This exclusive North Island train tour offers a truly unique way to experience New Zealand.
View TourThe ‘Ultimate’ New Zealand Train Journey
Departure From: Auckland
13 Days | NZ $7,695
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Join us for a rail tour that can easily boast to be the Ultimate New Zealand Train Journey. Including all of NZ’s scenic rail trips and a private charter, it doesn’t get better than this. Travel overland from Auckland to Christchurch through deepest reaches of NZ.
View TourThree Great Rail Journeys – Luxury Rail Tour New Zealand
Departure From: Auckland or Christchurch
from 3 Days | from NZ$4,889
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Our Premium Three Great Rail Journeys itinerary delivers a fully encompassing luxury, independent, rail travel experience. Take your time and enjoy the very best New Zealand has to offer.
View TourTop of the South Island Train Tour
Departure From: Christchurch
7 Days | from NZ$1,469
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Enjoy the Top of the South Island train tour on this succinct 7 day independent journey that includes TranzAlpine and Coastal Explorer rail journeys.
View TourTranzAlpine Winter Wonderland
Departure From: Christchurch
7 Days | from NZ $1,399
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Winter is a magical time to experience the South Island, and there is something romantic and dreamy about the TranzApine Winter Wonderland rail journey set against a backdrop of snow.
View TourUltimate Rail, Cruise and Coach 2026/2027
Departure From: Auckland
19 Days | from NZD $14,919 includes $250 pp saving
Tour Type: Luxury Escorted
Embark on the 19 day ultimate rail cruise and coach adventure, a seamless journey that blends New Zealand’s most iconic rail experiences.
View TourWellington to Christchurch; Coastal Highlights
Departure From: Wellington
6 Days | from NZ $3,399
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Join us on this guided scenic Wellington to Christchurch rail tour across the Cook Strait, past coastal beaches and through mountain valleys.
View TourOff the Beaten Track by Train
Let the train take you beyond the well-trodden tourist path and deliver you to some truly stunning experiences.
Forgotten World Adventure from Wellington Return
Departure From: Wellington
5 Days | from NZ$2,299
Tour Type: Independent Tour
Take the ultimate scenic rail journey through New Zealand to the historic location of Taumarunui and enjoy a forgotten world…
View TourForgotten World Escape from Auckland to Wellington
Departure From: Auckland
3 Days | from $1,839
Tour Type: Independent Tour
Enjoy the Forgotten World Escape from Auckland on the way to Wellington. Explore the rural heart of New Zealand’s North Island with the Northern Explorer train including a half-day rail cart tour.
View TourForgotten World Escape from Wellington to Auckland
Departure From: Wellington
3 Days | from NZ$1,839
Tour Type: Independent Tour
Explore the rural heart of New Zealand’s North Island with the Northern Explorer train and enjoy the Forgotten World Escape on the way to Auckland.
View TourMartinborough Getaway by Train – Two night package
Departure From: Wellington
3 Days | from NZ$1015
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
This relaxing short break is the perfect weekend away for wine lovers. Enjoy a luxury 2 course wine matching lunch, chauffeur and more.
View TourQueenstown Rail Tour to Dunedin
Departure From: Queenstown
1 Day | NZ $290
Tour Type: Day Tour
Join this tour and travel through beautiful Central Otago and then ride the famous Taieri Gorge Railway. Discover stunning viaducts, tunnels and Otago scenery.
View TourTranzAlpine & West Coast Cycle Trail Escape
Departure From: Christchurch
4 Days | from NZ$2,195
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
The TranzAlpine West Coast Cycle Trail Escape offers a unique off the beaten track getaway featuring some of New Zealand’s iconic highlights.
View TourTranzAlpine Moana Magic Escape
Departure From: Christchurch
3 Days | from NZ$879
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Amidst a stunning backdrop of mountains and ancient forest, take our escape to Moana and Lake Brunner. This is a magical getaway that you won’t regret.
View TourTranzAlpine Wilderness Lodge Escape
Departure From: Christchurch
4 Days | from NZ $2,259
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
The Wilderness Lodge Escape is designed to let you relax, unwind, and enjoy a very special off the beaten track experience.
View TourShort Rail Breaks
A couple of nights away by train without having to drive is as good as any holiday. Enjoy your destination and the journey.
3 Great Journeys by LOCO
Departure From: Auckland or Christchurch.
from 3 Days | from NZ$1,869
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
If your ambition is to travel on each of NZ’s scenic trains, this tour will achieve your dream. A fully flexible independent tour, LOCO will match your time, budget and expectations.
View TourBest of Wellington by Northern Explorer
Departure From: Auckland
4 Days | from NZ$1,459
Tour Type: Independent Tour
If you are looking to experience the incredible Northern Explorer train journey from Auckland to Wellington and then enjoy the magical capital without any hassle, then this is the break for you.
View TourBlenheim Rail Break; Wine & Wings
Departure From: Christchurch
2 Days | from NZ$1,139
Tour Type: Independent Tour
Departing from Christchurch, this delightful journey takes you along remote beaches, between mountains and sea to the Marlborough wine region.
View TourCoastal Pacific Train Wildlife Encounter
Departure From: Christchurch
2 Days | from NZ$749
Tour Type: Independent Tour
See the majestic seabirds or get up close to dolphins or whales and discover the spectacular wildlife of Kaikōura on the Coastal Pacific Train.
View TourCoromandel Family Getaway
Departure From: Coromandel
5 Days | From NZ$2,385
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Take a short break and discover New Zealand’s Coromandel with this 5-day family getaway. With a mountainous interior and golden beaches, this is a perfect getaway,
View TourForgotten World Escape from Auckland to Wellington
Departure From: Auckland
3 Days | from $1,839
Tour Type: Independent Tour
Enjoy the Forgotten World Escape from Auckland on the way to Wellington. Explore the rural heart of New Zealand’s North Island with the Northern Explorer train including a half-day rail cart tour.
View TourForgotten World Escape from Wellington to Auckland
Departure From: Wellington
3 Days | from NZ$1,839
Tour Type: Independent Tour
Explore the rural heart of New Zealand’s North Island with the Northern Explorer train and enjoy the Forgotten World Escape on the way to Auckland.
View TourKaikoura Experience from Wellington
Departure From: Wellington
2 Days | from NZ$1069
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Travel by ferry and scenic train from Wellington to Christchurch, and enjoy a wonderous Kaikoura experience including the natural wonders of this marine paradise.
View TourLuxury TranzAlpine Glacier Experience
Departure From: Christchurch
4 Days | from NZ$3,899
Tour Type: Independent Tour
Enjoy a heavenly escape into a world filled with fascination and grandeur on this premium TranzAlpine Glacier Experience including 5-star accommodation.
View TourMartinborough Getaway by Train – Two night package
Departure From: Wellington
3 Days | from NZ$1015
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
This relaxing short break is the perfect weekend away for wine lovers. Enjoy a luxury 2 course wine matching lunch, chauffeur and more.
View TourMartinborough Overnight by Train – One night package
Departure From: Wellington
2 Days | from NZ$669
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Enjoy a change of scenery with this overnight vineyard package that takes you from the city lights of Wellington.
View TourNorthern Explorer & The Tongariro Crossing
Departure From: Wellington or Auckland
4 Days | from NZ$1075
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Explore Te Ika-a-Māui on our memorable Northern Explorer tour and walk one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
View TourThe Mainlander Train 4 Day Package
Departure From: Christchurch
4 Days | from NZ$999
The Mainlander revives a classic route, bringing back the romance of Southerner rail trips to the South Island. Enjoy 3 luxury nights in Dunedin and the option of a Taieri Gorge Railway excursion.
Enquire NowThe Southerner – May 2026
Departure From: Christchurch
1 - 3 days | from NZ$249
Tour Type: Day Tour & Packages
The Southerner train departs on 22nd, 23rd, 24th and 25th May 2026, from Christchurch to Dunedin return. Join a day tour or choose from three great travel packages. Travel from the expansive Canterbury Plains to the rugged Otago coastline, with breath-taking views of the Southern Alps and Pacific Ocean.
Enquire NowTranzAlpine – Explore Hokitika
Departure From: Christchurch
3 Days | from NZ$1099
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Jump aboard the TranzAlpine scenic train and explore Hokitika in style. Travel via rail through the Southern Alps to Greymouth enjoying the views from your window.
View TourTranzAlpine – Taste of the West Coast
Departure From: Christchurch
2 Days | from NZ$1119
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
The TranzAlpine is a scenic rail trip running from the East Coast to the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand.
View TourTranzAlpine & West Coast Glaciers to Queenstown
Departure From: Christchurch
2 Days | from NZ$759
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Ride New Zealand’s premier rail journey on this two-day train tour from Christchurch to the West Coast. Discover the Glaciers and then head further south to the stunning lakes district and finally Queenstown.
View TourTranzAlpine Glacier Experience
Departure From: Christchurch
4 Days | from NZ$1,999
Tour Type: Independent Tour
Be amazed at this exploration of the West Coast on the stunning TranzAlpine Glacier Experience. Discover the ancient world of Glacier Country and its natural wonders, where ice rivers carve through mountains and rainforests thrive.
View TourTranzAlpine Overnight
Departure From: Christchurch
2 Days | from NZ$1399
Tour Type: Independent Tour
Journey to Greymouth on this TranzAlpine overnight adventure. Escape the city and travel to New Zealand’s famous West Coast. This rail break will take you through the heart of the Southern Alps to a land of timeless beauty.
View TourTranzAlpine West Coast Explorer
Departure From: Christchurch
4 Days | from NZ$1949
Tour Type: Independent Tour
The 4 day TranzAlpine West Coast Explorer is a timeless and enjoyable escape to Lake Brunner, Punakaiki, & Hokitika. Break free from the ordinary and visit some great West Coast destinations.
View TourDay Trips by Train
Book yourself a day to remember and experience one or more of New Zealand's world-class rail journeys.
Martinborough Wine Tour by Train
Departure From: Wellington
1 Day | from NZ$365
Tour Type: Day Tour
Our Martinborough wine tour by rail is a wonderful getaway that takes you from Wellington to Martinborough in the heart…
View TourQueenstown Rail Tour to Dunedin
Departure From: Queenstown
1 Day | NZ $290
Tour Type: Day Tour
Join this tour and travel through beautiful Central Otago and then ride the famous Taieri Gorge Railway. Discover stunning viaducts, tunnels and Otago scenery.
View TourTaieri Gorge Railway
Departure From: Dunedin
5 Hours | from $149 per person
Tour Type: Day Tour
The Taieri Gorge Railway is an unforgettable New Zealand heritage rail journey taking passengers on a scenic adventure through dramatic gorges and over historic viaducts.
View TourThe Coastal Pacific
Departure From: Christchurch or Picton
1 Day | from NZ$219 One-Way
Tour Type: Day Tour
Join the Coastal Pacific and explore the stunning Kaikōura coastline, through the idyllic Canterbury Plains to the Garden City of Christchurch.
View TourThe Mainlander Train
Departure From: Christchurch / Dunedin / Invercargill
1 Day (or more) | from NZ$129
Tour Type: Day Tour
Don’t miss this rare chance to travel the old Southerner route between Invercargill and Christchurch, with the added flexibility of starting or finishing in Dunedin. Get in touch for full details.
Enquire NowThe Mountaineer Train – Arthur’s Pass Return
Departure From: Christchurch
1 Day | NZ$199
Tour Type: Day Tour
Take in stunning vistas of the Canterbury Plains, then climb through untouched mountain landscapes, across turquoise blue rivers, gorges, bridges, and viaducts, to Arthur’s Pass Village, the highest railway station in the South Island.
Enquire NowThe Northern Explorer
Departure From: Wellington or Auckland
1 Day | from NZ$219 One-Way
Tour Type: Day Tour
The Northern Explorer, New Zealand’s longest running passenger rail service, is waiting for your booking. Explore New Zealand’s North Island.
View TourThe Southerner – May 2026
Departure From: Christchurch
1 - 3 days | from NZ$249
Tour Type: Day Tour & Packages
The Southerner train departs on 22nd, 23rd, 24th and 25th May 2026, from Christchurch to Dunedin return. Join a day tour or choose from three great travel packages. Travel from the expansive Canterbury Plains to the rugged Otago coastline, with breath-taking views of the Southern Alps and Pacific Ocean.
Enquire NowThe TranzAlpine Train
Departure From: Christchurch or Greymouth
1 Day | from NZ$219 One-Way
Tour Type: Day Tour
Journey across the Southern Alps on one of the world’s great train rides. The TranzAlpine offers breathtaking views of mountains, rivers, and rainforests — an unforgettable way to experience the South Island’s natural beauty.
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