First Class Train Journey Across New Zealand

The New Zealand luxury train journey is a first-class rail experience across the South Island and beyond, known for combining the TranzAlpine’s panoramic passage through the Southern Alps, the Coastal Pacific’s rugged coastline views, the Cook Strait ferry crossing of the Marlborough Sounds, and the iconic Wellington Cable Car. You can take a train ride from Christchurch to Auckland with a ferry crossing (via ferry) and take in the spectacular views with a cable car, making it a truly unique and unforgettable journey.

Imagine being able to experience this great country (New Zealand) with the comfort of your own seat on a first class (Tranzalpine) train. The ride from Christchurch to Auckland may be only two days long and will give you lasting memories of luxury travel while experiencing New Zealand.

The journey begins on the TranzAlpine, considered to be one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. On a first class train, enjoy large, roomy (spacious), cloudless views (panoramic) through the Southern Alps, while at the same time receiving excellent service onboard.

Upon arriving at Christchurch you will then connect to the Coastal Pacific, a rail journey along the Pacific Ocean (Pacific Coast) from Christchurch to Picton. Enjoy free food and drinks as you enjoy the spectacular mountain views located between the trains and the Pacific Ocean.

The real magic of travel occurs when you take the ferry from Picton to Wellington (Wellington Picton Ferry) and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Marlborough Sounds. Witnessing the dolphins chase the ferry for portion of the journey is truly a wonderful sight to witness.

After arriving in Wellington, you will take the famous Wellington Cable Car to the top of the city and Botanic Gardens for some of the best views of the harbour (water) and the city.

After visiting Wellington you can board the northern explorer train for the last part of your journey to Auckland via different terrains and landscapes. Enjoy the variety of scenery including: volcanic plateaus, lush farmland and everything in-between as you travel to Auckland.

The Northern Explorer leg of this journey is covered in detail in our guide: Crossing the North Island by train.

What are the quick facts about this journey?

• Best Time to Visit: October–April for the clearest mountain and coastal views.
• Estimated Budget: TranzAlpine scenic ticket NZ$150–$200; Coastal Pacific NZ$100–$150; Interislander ferry NZ$50–$80; full premium journey NZ$400–$600+ per person.
• Duration: The full journey takes 2–3 days including the ferry crossing and stopovers.
• Getting There: Journey begins at Christchurch Railway Station (TranzAlpine), then Coastal Pacific to Picton, ferry to Wellington, and Northern Explorer or other service to Auckland Strand Station.