8 experiences to have on a rail tour of New Zealand

Prepare to explore New Zealand like you never have before.

There’s much more to New Zealand/Aotearoa than you might expect. Get ready to discover the very best of the Land of the Long White Cloud’s culture, cuisine and, of course, stunning scenery.

Great Journeys New Zealand’s signature New Zealand Up Close Tour takes you from Auckland to Queenstown by rail. Experience a unique itinerary, uncover hidden treasures that only the locals know about and dive deep into Māori culture and customs.

1. Sanctuary Mountain

Spot rare and endangered wildlife.

New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most unique flora and fauna. At Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, get up close and personal with rare and endangered animals and plants. Learn about rongoā rākau (traditional Māori herbal medicine) from qualified practitioners and discover the close links between native flora and fauna and Māori cultural practices.

2. World-famous scenic train journeys

Settle into your seat and watch New Zealand’s epic landscapes roll by.

Rail is the ultimate way to travel, and the three train journeys you’ll experience as part of the New Zealand Up Close Tour are prime examples. Sit back and relax while you enjoy unforgettable views of New Zealand’s North and South Islands.

Foodies will also appreciate the inclusion of an upgrade to Scenic Plus Premium in your tour package. You’ll take in the tastes of the region as well as the sights as you enjoy the authentic flavours of rural New Zealand, with meals catered to the area you’re exploring.

Northern Explorer

The Northern Explorer winds its way through the heart of the North Island’s otherworldly volcanic landscapes, taking in river valleys, plains and mountains.   

Coastal Pacific

The seaside opulence of New Zealand’s South Island is the star of the Coastal Pacific show. This rail journey traverses the picturesque route from Picton, at the head of the Queen Charlotte Sound, to Christchurch.

TranzAlpine

The TranzAlpine journey is the perfect way to experience the majesty of New Zealand’s alps. You’ll take a journey from Christchurch to Greymouth through alpine landscapes and rainforest to the west coast.   

3. Zealong Tea Estate

Take part in an authentic tea ceremony. (Image: Yortw)

Set on a former dairy farm, Zealong Tea Estate is home to 1.2 million Camellia sinensis bushes on 48 hectares of lovingly tended land. Here, you’ll experience an immersive tea ceremony built around the plantation’s certified organic teas. Relax and enjoy the views while your taste buds delight in Zealong Tea Estate’s Signature High Tea experience.

4. Tongariro National Park

Stand before three active volcanoes.

New Zealand is known for its volcanic landscapes, made famous as the setting for The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy. Discover the real Middle Earth at Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for both its natural beauty and cultural significance to Māori people. This spot is home to three active volcanoes, including Mt Ngāuruhoe (known as Mt Doom in the movies).

Drink in the incredible landscape that inspired Peter Jackson’s Middle Earth with a trip to Tūroa Ski Area, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views. Journey up the north face of Mt Ruapehu for breathtaking views of the central North Island, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngāuruhoe.

5. Hokitika Gorge Walk

Walk through turquoise waters at Hokitika Gorge. (Image: Getty/travellinglight)

Hokitika is the pounamu capital of the world, and one of the only places you can catch a glimpse of this rare and beautiful New Zealand jade or greenstone. Natural reserves of this precious stone are under Māori tribal protection, and the art of pounamu carving is significant to Māori culture.

Enjoy a guided pounamu experience and walk through the natural beauty of Hokitika Gorge, where turquoise water meets bright white limestone cliffs and native bush.

6. West Coast Wildlife Centre

New Zealand’s national bird is the elusive, shy and flightless kiwi, a rare treasure even among the country’s unique native birds. At the West Coast Wildlife Centre, you’re not only guaranteed to see a kiwi, but you’ll learn about conservation efforts to keep this national emblem alive and well. This once-in-a-lifetime experience has been curated exclusively for Great Journeys New Zealand guests.

7. Redwoods Treewalk

Walk high above the forest on the Redwoods Treewalk. (Image: Getty/Photon Photos)

Gain a new perspective from up high in the Whakarewarewa Forest on the Redwoods Treewalk. Look down on the one-of-a-kind landscape of Rotorua, with its steaming natural sulphur reserves, and marvel at the strength and beauty of the 120-year-old redwood trees all around you.

8. Haast River Safari

Take in New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenery from the water. (Image: Getty/Susan Stewart)

The unique Haast River Safari showcases the very thing that makes New Zealand such an exciting destination – you’ll discover every type of landscape in one place. Aboard the river boat, you’ll see some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery, from pristine white beaches to lakes, rivers, mountain peaks, verdant vineyards and even glaciers. Your experienced tour director knows where to find the best hidden gems and locations only the locals know about.

Enjoy the signature New Zealand Up Close Tour with a suite of new inclusions for upcoming departures. Settle in with premium service for an unforgettable culinary experience, or pick and choose your own adventure with shorter tour legs.

Book your adventure today with Great Journeys New Zealand.