Great Journeys NZ
Our scenic train journeys have been named among the top train experiences in the world.
Through the connected rail network of Great Journeys New Zealand, passengers are able to travel from Auckland in the North through to Greymouth on the West Coast of the South Island, experiencing New Zealand’s famous coastlines and mountains along the way.
KiwiRail’s tourism services help drive New Zealand’s regional growth, bringing thousands of tourists each year to cities such as Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, and to regions including Waikato, Ruapehu, Manawatu, Marlborough, Kaikōura and the West Coast.
A sustainable option
Not only are our journeys spectacular, they are a sustainable option for experiencing the beauty of Aotearoa with fewer carbon emissions than road travel, enhancing the safety and beauty of the country. We are proud to have signed up to the New Zealand Tourism Sustainability Commitment. Learn more about KiwiRail’s sustainability goals.
To book tickets, visit Great Journeys New Zealand.
Great Journeys New Zealand include:
Northern Explorer
New Zealand's longest running passenger service, Northern Explorer travels between Auckland and Wellington, stopping at Palmerston North, Ohakune, National Park and Hamilton. Highlights include the journey through the Tongariro National Park, with its three spectacular volcanic mountains, and the famous Raurimu Spiral.
Coastal Pacific
Our Coastal Pacific train runs on Saturdays and Sundays from Christchurch to Picton and return throughout the winter season. With the sea stretching to the horizon in the east and the Kaikōura mountains stretching to the sky in the west, Coastal Pacific is one of the most beautiful journeys in New Zealand. The service was halted in 2016 following the Kaikōura earthquakes, but returned in December 2018.
TranzAlpine
TranzAlpine runs return services on Thursdays and Fridays between Christchurch and Greymouth for the winter season, and has been named among the world’s top train journeys. It covers 223km (139 miles) one-way, taking just under five hours. Passengers experience the majestic Canterbury Plains and mighty Southern Alps on their journey to the beautiful West Coast.
