Premium Wellington to Christchurch Train Tour

Duration: 6 Days

Price: from NZ$4,999

Departure From: Wellington

Departure Date: Monthly Departures

Tour Type: Escorted Tour

Meal Plan: B&B and selected meals

Physical Grading: 2/5

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Embark on an unforgettable 6-day Wellington to Christchurch train tour, a luxury New Zealand tour designed for travellers who value comfort, style, and the joy of discovery.

“Captivating Coast Tour”

Glide across the sparkling waters of the Cook Strait, follow the dramatic Pacific coastline, and traverse serene mountain valleys as every stage of the journey reveals another side of New Zealand’s spectacular South Island.

The journey is very much part of the destination, and our Scenic trains and ferries offer the most refined way to experience the country’s breathtaking landscapes. With first-class service, curated inclusions, and carefully planned experiences along the way, this tour captures the essence of luxury rail travel.

Your adventure begins with a cruise through Wellington Harbour and across Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry, sailing into the magnificent Marlborough Sounds. From Picton, the renowned Coastal Pacific train takes you past rolling vineyards, dramatic seascapes, and rugged mountains to the wildlife haven of Kaikōura.

The final stage of your Wellington to Christchurch train tour continues aboard the Coastal Pacific, meandering past secluded beaches and sweeping coastal vistas before arriving in Christchurch. With fine dining, hand-picked accommodation, and exceptional service throughout, this is more than a journey – it’s a truly captivating travel experience.

wellington to christchurch train tour map

Premium Wellington to Christchurch Train Tour Highlights

  • Glide along untouched coastline by scenic rail on the Wellington to Christchurch train.
  • Cruise alongside magnificent views while crossing the Cook Strait
  • Sip world-class wine among the vines in Marlborough
  • Discover the iridescent beauty of paua pearls on a guided Paua Pearl Tour and sip your way through Marlborough’s renowned vineyards
  • Encounter playful dolphins in Kaikōura
  • Embark on the Coastal Pacific, a world-class scenic train journeys, traversing breathtaking landscapes while dining in Scenic Plus
  • Cross the Cook Strait on a scenic ferry journey, linking the North and South Islands
  • Be captivated by the storytelling of your local Tour Director along this great Christchurch to Wellington train journey
Interislander
Enjoy your inter-island cruise in your Premium Cabin with food and drink included

Premium Wellington to Christchurch Train Tour Included Excursions

Wellington Guided Tour – Your Wellington to Christchurch train tour host will provide an intimate local view of our cool little capital on a Wellington tour.

Wellington-Cable-Car
Take a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car

Marlborough Wine Tour – Get a taste for New Zealand’s world famous wines on relaxing day tour

Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura – Enjoy this environmentally-friendly boat tour where participants can choose to either swim with wild dusky dolphins or observe them from the boat, providing a world-class opportunity to witness these acrobatic creatures in their natural New Zealand habitat.

Christchurch Tramway – Enjoy a hop-on, hop-off pass on Christchurch’s historic Tramway at the end of your Wellington to Christchurch train journey.

New Zealand Railfan Adventure
Enjoy hopping on and off the Christchurch tram.

Travelling in Scenic Plus Class – A Premium Experience

Your Wellington to Christchurch train tour features Scenic Plus rail 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 experience a luxury New Zealand rail holiday.

At the heart of the Scenic Plus experience on your Wellington to Christchurch train 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.

The premium Wellington to Christchurch train tour featuring the Coastal Pacific train will not dissapoint.

Breakfast on our Luxury Rail Tour
Enjoy and delight in the luxury Scenic Plus carriages

For a detailed itinerary of your Premium Wellington to Christchurch train tour, departure details, and booking conditions, please see below.

Departure Date from WellingtonPricing & Notes
06 January 2026$4,999 – Enquire
20 January 2026SOLD OUT
27 January 2026$4,999 – Enquire
03 February 2026$4999 – Enquire
10 February 2026$4,999
17 February 2026$4,999
24 February 2026$4,999 – Enquire
03 March 2026$4,999
10 March 2026 $4,999
17 March 2026$4,999
24 March 2026$4,999
31 March 2026$4,999
3 April 2026$4,999 – Reverse Trip – Christchurch to Wellington
07 April 2026SOLD OUT
14 April 2026$4,999
17 April 2026$4,999 – Reverse Trip – Christchurch to Wellington
21 April 2026SOLD OUT
06 October 2026$5,699
13 October 2026$5,699
03 November 2026$5,699
17 November 2026$5,699
24 November 2026$5,699
08 December 2026$5,699
15 December 2026$5,699
05 January 2027$5,699
19 January 2027$5,699
26 January 2027$5,699
16 February 2027$5,699
02 March 2027SOLD OUT
09 March 2027$5,699
13 April 2027$5,699

All Departure Dates Are Guaranteed to Operate. Price and availability subject to change.

Enquire Now for the Latest Availability

Please note, spaces are limited on this exclusive Premium Wellington to Christchurch train tour. Act fast to secure your seat aboard New Zealand’s most scenic trains and travel in unparalleled luxury.

Click here for alternate New Zealand tours.

Tour Inclusions

  • Coastal Pacific train journey
  • Inter-island ferry cruise
  • Services of our Experienced Tour Director
  • Marlborough Wine Experience
  • Wildlife Experience in Kaikōura
  • Christchurch Tramway hop and hop off
  • Private Coaches to reach regional sightseeing
  • 5 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners and 1 meals on the train
  • 4–5 star hotel accommodation (twin share)
  • All sightseeing and entrance fees as specified in the itinerary.

Pricing Notes

  • Advertised price based on per person, twin share
  • Non-refundable deposit of 20% per person is due at the time of booking
  • Full non-refundable balance of tour payment is required 66 days prior to departure booking
  • A single supplement is available or you can choose to match up with another single traveller
  • Price is subject to change unless paid in full
  • Full terms and conditions will be advised at the time of booking.
  • Maximum group size of 20
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Tour Itinerary

Day 1 | Wellington (D)
Kia Ora! Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand’s capital city! Wellington is known for its world-class dining, great coffee and eccentric shops. After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Wellington has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to get cultured at Te Papa Museum or grab a drink at one of the many quirky bars on Cuba Street. You may even fancy a ride on the cable car! After an exciting day on the town, your tour will officially begin as you join your fellow travellers and Tour Director at this evening’s welcome dinner.
This morning you will say poroporoaki ki te motu raki (good-bye to the North Island) as you sail to the South Island, crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry. As the shores of the North Island slowly disappear, settle down in the comfy seats in the Premium Lounge. Treat yourself to a mimosa and enjoy a hearty seafaring breakfast, but save some room for morning tea! On your journey across Cook Strait you may spot pods of dolphins playing in the wake or, if you are very lucky, whales. Don’t spend all your time inside – as you enter the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound, enjoy the views as you cruise past the remnants of whaling stations, remote working sheep farms, pristine native bush and mussel farms. Admire the beauty of this coastal paradise as you arrive into the gateway of the South Island, Picton. Once in Marlborough, indulge in a gourmet experience as you journey through the renowned Marlborough region, savoring a three-course lunch menu at Allan Scott Wines Bistro, accompanied by a glass of wine with your main meal. After lunch, the adventure continues with visits to two more wineries for included tastings, and a stop at the Makana Boutique Chocolate Factory, promising a sweet conclusion to your day.
This morning you will enjoy a Paua Pearl Tour in the Marlborough Sounds. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Pāua Pearl Farm Tour, where innovation meets tradition along New Zealand’s scenic coastline. After a 45 minute cruise to the outer Marlborough Sounds, begin your journey with a warm welcome and morning tea, followed by a guided tour through the hatchery and growing tanks where these iridescent treasures are nurtured. Learn about the fascinating process of cultivating pāua pearls, then indulge in a tasting of fresh, locally harvested pāua—an unforgettable flavour of the ocean. This afternoon you will be travelling to Kaikōura aboard the Coastal Pacific train. Relax as the train glides across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks! Once in Kaikōura, the evening will be yours to enjoy some iconic kai moana (seafood) at one of the quaint restaurants before enjoying your luxurious ocean-front hotel.
Set out on an unforgettable Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura, where the ocean comes alive with the playful energy of wild dusky dolphins. Cruise along the stunning coastline as knowledgeable guides share insights into these intelligent marine mammals. Watch as pods leap, spin, and interact in their natural habitat—or elevate your adventure with the option to upgrade and swim alongside them for a truly immersive and exhilarating experience. After this outstanding experience, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the beach to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips. Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops. Gather again for the next leg of your journey. Late afternoon, board the Coastal Pacific for the Scenic Plus experience, treating yourself to unparalleled vistas as you glide along the coastline. Revel in dinner and drinks, included with your Scenic Plus package, as you unwind and soak in the breathtaking scenery. Relax for the remainder of the evening before hitting the town the following day.
Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration, is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with the 19th-century Anglican 'gothic revival' architectural influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is rebuilding itself into a multicultural haven. Today you are free to explore the museums, Riverside Markets, Punting on the Avon, Gondola and botanical gardens. There is also a multitude of delicious cafés tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love. This evening, you will re-join your fellow travellers for a ‘final hurrah’ and a special dinner on Christchurch’s historic dinner tram. Enjoy a wonderful circuit of the city while indulging in fantastic conversation and seasonal cuisine.
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast at the hotel. Not ready to leave Christchurch? Reach out to our LOCO Journeys team to pre-organise your extended stay.

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