The Ultimate Tranz Alpine and Coastal Pacific Train Adventure.

Itinerary

30% Deposit Required on Booking.

DAY ONE                                        D

Welcome to the first day of your tour! After being picked up from your home, you'll travel to the airport and fly to Christchurch .Upon arrival, board a bus for a city tour, where you'll visit iconic landmarks like the Christchurch Cathedral and hear about the community’s efforts to rebuild and revitalize the city. Learn about the innovative solutions for a safer, more sustainable future. After the tour, check in at the Rydges Latimer Hotel, ideally located in the heart of the city. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel’s onsite restaurant, offering the region's finest cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. After dinner, settle into your cozy room for a restful night’s sleep, preparing for the adventures to come.

DAY TWO                                       B, L, D

We begin with a short journey to the Rail Station, where we board the modernized Tranz Alpine Train for a scenic ride through the Southern Alps. Relax in luxury as we travel past the Torlesse Range, Waimakariri River, Arthur’s Pass, Lake Brunner, and more, arriving in Greymouth on the West Coast. The train offers a cafe carriage, luxury seating, informative commentary, and outdoor viewing. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the famous Monteith Brewery for lunch, followed by a tour and tasting. Afterward, we’ll drive through the Grey Valley, passing the Brunner Mine site and, if time allows, take a walk across the bridge to explore. We’ll then head to the Scenic Hotel Punakaiki, located near the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. After check-in, we’ll enjoy dinner at the on-site seaside restaurant, Jacobs Grill.

DAY THREE                                    B, D

This morning, we’ll take a short walk around the Pancake Rocks before heading to Charleston. There, we board the Nile River Rainforest Train for an open carriage ride through the rainforest. At the halfway point, we’ll take a short walk to a suspension bridge with stunning views before returning to the train for lunch. Afterward, we climb to the summit of the Denniston Plateau, home of the 1880s Denniston Mine. We’ll learn about life on the plateau, made famous by Jenny Patrick’s Denniston Rose. We’ll then travel to Westport for a guided tour of the award-winning Museum of Kawatiri. Afterward, we’ll return to our accommodation in Westport and enjoy a lovely dinner. 

DAY FOUR                                      B, L, D

We journey along the stunning Buller River, surrounded by the mountain beech forests of the Brunner Range and Kahurangi National Park. A stop in Murchison offers morning tea and serene views before we continue to Alpine Lodge, set amidst the spectacular St Arnaud Range. After lunch, we follow the Wairau River through its picturesque valley to Blenheim. Here, we immerse ourselves in Marlborough’s renowned wine culture with a tasting at Forest Wines. Next, we explore the tranquil paradise of Welton House and Gardens. Our day concludes at Chateau Marlborough Hotel, with dinner at the on-site restaurant and reflections on a memorable day.

DAY FIVE                                        B, L, D

Today promises adventure and discovery! We begin at the Omaka Aviation Centre, delving into aviation history through World War I and II exhibitions. A private guided tour of the Knights of the Sky is followed by a relaxing morning tea at the café. Next, we savour fine local cuisine and wine at Wither Hills Cellar Door Restaurant in Marlborough, renowned for its stunning views and inviting atmosphere. In the afternoon, we board the Coastal Pacific Train to Christchurch, enjoying breathtaking landscapes and dinner onboard. The day concludes with a shuttle to our accommodation at Rydges Hotel Christchurch.

DAY SIX                                           B

Starting with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we begin our final day together with a private chartered tram tour through Christchurch’s vibrant streets, departing from Cathedral Junction to explore the city’s rich history and culture. Following this, enjoy free time to discover Christchurch. Visit the Botanic Gardens and Visitor Centre, browse the laneways, or savour lunch at Riverside Market. Later, we’ll relax on a scenic drive through Sumner and Lyttleton Harbour, ending at The Tannery—a charming destination with over 50 boutique shops, restaurants, and bars. Take a moment to unwind with a beverage or indulge in retail therapy. In the evening, we’ll gather for dinner at the airport before checking in for our flight, reminiscing about the incredible memories made during our South Island adventure.