New Zealand > Passenger Trains

Travel Specials > Travel Tips and InfoNew Zealand > Passenger Trains

TranzAlpine

Each day, New Zealand's TranzAlpine Train connects Christchurch and Greymouth - the South Island's two coasts.  Regarded as one of the world's top train journeys, aboard the TranzAlpine you will see the beautiful Canterbury Plains, the gorges of the Waimakariri River, a rainforest, and, of course, the spectacular Southern Alps.

 

The TranzAlpine's comfortable carriages include group seating with tables, enabling you to enjoy the views in the company of fellow travelers.  The train also features an open-air viewing carriage, allowing you to truly feel a part of the gorgeous scenery, as well as offering you the opportunity to take memorable photographs of your journey.

 

The trip is roughly 140 miles long, taking about four and a half hours to complete.  Along the way, you'll travel through 16 tunnels and 5 viaducts.

 

 

Overlander
Take the Overlander Train from New Zealand's largest city, Auckland, to the capital city, Wellington.  The train journey offers unbelievable views, ranging from mountains to river gorges, and farmland to volcanic plateau.

 

Panoramic windows offer great views, no matter where you are sitting, and lounge-style seats allow you to travel in comfort.

 

 

TranzCoastal

Daily connecting the port city of Picton to the major city of Christchurch the TranzCoastal Train is a great way to travel across New Zealand's South Island.  On one side of the train, you'll see the impressive Kaikoura mountain ranges, while the other holds the coastline of the Pacific.

 

Consider taking a break in Kaikoura, where you'll have the opportunity to go out whale watching or swimming with the dolphins!  (You might even see some seals and penguins.)

 

The TranzCoastal travels through 22 tunnels and across 175 bridges along its journey.  And, like the TranzAlpine, the TranzCoastal Train has an open-air viewing carriage, enabling you to smell the sea air.

 

 

Click here to view our New Zealand Rail Journey