Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Great Journeys New Zealand's 12 Day Cities And Seas Tour (Northbound). Discover the cultural heart and coastal beauty of New Zealand on the Signature cities and seas tour, a premium guided rail journey with Great Journeys New Zealand. Travel effortlessly between islands by scenic train and ferry, staying in boutique accommodation and enjoying curated regional highlights along the way. With expert guidance throughout, every day on the Signature cities and seas tour reveals vibrant cities, dramatic coastlines and immersive experiences you’ll remember long after the journey ends.
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Our Price From
US$6,385 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Save up to $742 per person
Trip Length
12 Days
Trip Starts
Christchurch
Trip Ends
Auckland
Departures
Sep 2026 to Apr 2027
Countries Visited:
Operator
Great Journeys
Trip Style
Signature
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star
Budget
Premium
Age Range
16-99 Years
Max. Group Size
20
Guide Style
Fully Guided, Locally Guided
Tour Code
SACR
Itinerary
Welcome to Ōtautahi Christchurch, the gateway to South Island exploration, beautifully blends cutting-edge innovation with 19th-century Anglican Gothic Revival architecture. While the city is often remembered for the 2011 earthquake, today it stands as a vibrant, multicultural hub with a strong sense of renewal and creativity.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your tour director, head out and explore all that Christchurch has to offer. Enjoy a guided walking tour with a tour guide or take the perfect opportunity to jump aboard hop-on hop-off tram. With a free afternoon, explore the beautiful Botanical Gardens. You may even fancy a drink in one of the charming bars in Riverside Market.
Join your fellow travellers and tour director this evening for a welcome reception. Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Christchurch (D)
Get ready to board Coastal Pacific train for the Scenic Plus experience
Set out on an unforgettable Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura, where the ocean comes alive with the playful energy of wild dusky dolphins. Cruise along the stunning coastline as knowledgeable guides share insights into these intelligent marine mammals. Watch as pods leap, spin, and interact in their natural habitat—or elevate your adventure with the option to upgrade and swim alongside them for a truly immersive and exhilarating experience.
After this outstanding experience, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the beach to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips. Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Kaikōura (B)
Set out on an unforgettable Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura, where the ocean comes alive with the playful energy of wild dusky dolphins. Cruise along the stunning coastline as knowledgeable guides share insights into these intelligent marine mammals. Watch as pods leap, spin, and interact in their natural habitat—or elevate your adventure with the option to upgrade and swim alongside them for a truly immersive and exhilarating experience.
After this outstanding experience, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the beach to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips. Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Kaikōura (B)
This morning you will board Coastal Pacific train once again to travel to Picton.
Relax as the train glides across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks!
Enjoy a wine tour and lunch at Allan Scott winery after you check in to the hotel. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Marlborough (B/L)
Relax as the train glides across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks!
Enjoy a wine tour and lunch at Allan Scott winery after you check in to the hotel. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Marlborough (B/L)
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Omaka Aviation Museum tour, were you'll see rare WW1 and WW2 aircraft through imaginative displays, offering a world-class experience that brings aviation history and its heroes to life.
After a 45 minute cruise to the outer Marlborough Sounds, you will have free time to relax and enjoy stunning scenery before rejoining the group for dinner at the accommodation. Stay: 4 - 4.5 star accommodation, Marlborough (B/D)
After a 45 minute cruise to the outer Marlborough Sounds, you will have free time to relax and enjoy stunning scenery before rejoining the group for dinner at the accommodation. Stay: 4 - 4.5 star accommodation, Marlborough (B/D)
This morning you will enjoy an exclusive guided tour of the Arapawa pāua pearl farm, through the hatchery and growing tanks where these iridescent treasures are nurtured. Learn about the fascinating process of cultivating pāua pearls, then indulge in a tasting of fresh, locally harvested pāua - an unforgettable flavour of the ocean.
In the afternoon you will be making your way to Wellington, aboard Interislander ferry in the comfort of Interislander Premium Lounge. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Wellington (B)
In the afternoon you will be making your way to Wellington, aboard Interislander ferry in the comfort of Interislander Premium Lounge. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Wellington (B)
The perfect day does exist – and it includes exploring Wellington!
Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining our Wellington City introduction tour and then head off to explore Cuba Street's cafés, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Get cultured at Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum, or visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary to surround yourself by native birdlife and regenerating forest.
You won't get bored with the plethora of activities on offer. From coffee, culture, historic buildings to botanic gardens and much more… the list goes on! If you need any suggestions or recommendations, just reach out to your helpful tour director or our Travel Centre to pre-book an experience.
Enjoy dinner tonight with your fellow travellers. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Wellington (B/D)
Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining our Wellington City introduction tour and then head off to explore Cuba Street's cafés, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Get cultured at Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum, or visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary to surround yourself by native birdlife and regenerating forest.
You won't get bored with the plethora of activities on offer. From coffee, culture, historic buildings to botanic gardens and much more… the list goes on! If you need any suggestions or recommendations, just reach out to your helpful tour director or our Travel Centre to pre-book an experience.
Enjoy dinner tonight with your fellow travellers. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Wellington (B/D)
Travelling via Ohakune:
Your day begins with an elevated experience travelling on the Northern Explorer train, waving goodbye to windy Wellington, as you settle into your comfortable seat. Don't get too comfortable though; dramatic rivers, gorges, and ravines are just around the bend. Stretch your legs and explore the open-air carriage to get the best view from the train.
A little later, why not indulge in a treat from our onboard licensed café? As you glide through rich green farmland and past dramatic coastlines, enjoy the picturesque views as you arrive to Ohakune.
Once you arrive to Ohakune, you will be treated to a tour of the area and Old Coach road, followed by dinner at the hotel. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Tongariro National Park OR Rotorua (B/D)
Your day begins with an elevated experience travelling on the Northern Explorer train, waving goodbye to windy Wellington, as you settle into your comfortable seat. Don't get too comfortable though; dramatic rivers, gorges, and ravines are just around the bend. Stretch your legs and explore the open-air carriage to get the best view from the train.
A little later, why not indulge in a treat from our onboard licensed café? As you glide through rich green farmland and past dramatic coastlines, enjoy the picturesque views as you arrive to Ohakune.
Once you arrive to Ohakune, you will be treated to a tour of the area and Old Coach road, followed by dinner at the hotel. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Tongariro National Park OR Rotorua (B/D)
If staying in Tongariro National Park:
Enjoy the gentle rhythm of Taumarunui as you spend a few unhurried hours exploring this welcoming riverside town. Your journey continues with guided visits to two of Taumarunui's treasured Forgotten World gardens, each rich with stories of the land.
Settle in for a full home-cooked lunch at Omaka Lodge, where warm hospitality awaits. The lodge's gardens, recently recognised as a garden of national significance, provide a beautiful place to pause and connect with the landscape.
After your garden escapades, you'll return to Ohakune, where the evening is yours to spend how you like. Opt for relaxation in the inviting hot tubs or immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ohakune at your leisure.
If staying in Rotorua:
Experience the magical Redwoods Treewalk, a series of suspension bridges through towering Californian redwoods. In the evening, be transported to another world with the summer harvest experience at Te Pā Tū, an unforgettable fusion of Māori culture, seasonal cuisine, and storytelling under the stars. Stay: 4–4.5 Star Accommodation, Tongariro National Park OR Rotorua (B/L/D)
Enjoy the gentle rhythm of Taumarunui as you spend a few unhurried hours exploring this welcoming riverside town. Your journey continues with guided visits to two of Taumarunui's treasured Forgotten World gardens, each rich with stories of the land.
Settle in for a full home-cooked lunch at Omaka Lodge, where warm hospitality awaits. The lodge's gardens, recently recognised as a garden of national significance, provide a beautiful place to pause and connect with the landscape.
After your garden escapades, you'll return to Ohakune, where the evening is yours to spend how you like. Opt for relaxation in the inviting hot tubs or immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ohakune at your leisure.
If staying in Rotorua:
Experience the magical Redwoods Treewalk, a series of suspension bridges through towering Californian redwoods. In the evening, be transported to another world with the summer harvest experience at Te Pā Tū, an unforgettable fusion of Māori culture, seasonal cuisine, and storytelling under the stars. Stay: 4–4.5 Star Accommodation, Tongariro National Park OR Rotorua (B/L/D)
If travelling via Ohakune:
Enjoy a mini excursion up to Tūroa ski field and to see the Sky Waka. Here you'll want to capture a panoramic photo of Middle Earth before descending.
Rejoin the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus for a day of rail travel through the heart of the North Island, passing the volcanic plateau and the iconic Raurimu Spiral. Disembark in Hamilton and have the evening to yourself. Please Note: No dinner is included this evening.
If travelling via Rotorua:
Travel by coach through the rolling hills of the Waikato region and arrive in Hamilton. Later, journey west to the charming surf town of Raglan for a relaxing sunset dinner cruise, complete with classic Kiwi fish and chips as you take in the coastal views. Stay: 4–4.5 Star Accommodation, Hamilton (B/D)
Enjoy a mini excursion up to Tūroa ski field and to see the Sky Waka. Here you'll want to capture a panoramic photo of Middle Earth before descending.
Rejoin the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus for a day of rail travel through the heart of the North Island, passing the volcanic plateau and the iconic Raurimu Spiral. Disembark in Hamilton and have the evening to yourself. Please Note: No dinner is included this evening.
If travelling via Rotorua:
Travel by coach through the rolling hills of the Waikato region and arrive in Hamilton. Later, journey west to the charming surf town of Raglan for a relaxing sunset dinner cruise, complete with classic Kiwi fish and chips as you take in the coastal views. Stay: 4–4.5 Star Accommodation, Hamilton (B/D)
If travelling via Ohakune:
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari on a bespoke two-hour tour through its ancient forests. Discover the indigenous flora and fauna, their traditional uses, and gain fascinating insights into Māori herbal medicinal practices, the unique Rongoā Rākau. This unforgettable journey will take you deep into the heart of New Zealand's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Your expedition continues after a lunch stop in New Zealand's “Kiwiana Capital”, Otorohanga. Make sure you capture a photo of the giant Kiwi birds!
In the early afternoon, enjoy some free time in the heart of Hamilton before departing for an evening visit to Raglan – a seaside surfer town. It's here that you'll enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise on the pristine harbour.
If travelling via Rotorua:
Your itinerary is the same, however tonight, explore Hamilton's riverside walks and shops on this free evening. Enjoy one of the many nearby restaurants as the sun sets over the Waikato River. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Hamilton (B/D)
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari on a bespoke two-hour tour through its ancient forests. Discover the indigenous flora and fauna, their traditional uses, and gain fascinating insights into Māori herbal medicinal practices, the unique Rongoā Rākau. This unforgettable journey will take you deep into the heart of New Zealand's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Your expedition continues after a lunch stop in New Zealand's “Kiwiana Capital”, Otorohanga. Make sure you capture a photo of the giant Kiwi birds!
In the early afternoon, enjoy some free time in the heart of Hamilton before departing for an evening visit to Raglan – a seaside surfer town. It's here that you'll enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise on the pristine harbour.
If travelling via Rotorua:
Your itinerary is the same, however tonight, explore Hamilton's riverside walks and shops on this free evening. Enjoy one of the many nearby restaurants as the sun sets over the Waikato River. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Hamilton (B/D)
Begin with a visit to the elegant Zealong Tea Estate, New Zealand's only commercial tea plantation. Enjoy a guided tour and traditional tea tasting, followed by a Signature high tea lunch surrounded by serene views of the estate.
In the early afternoon, enjoy some free time in the heart of Hamilton before departing for an evening visit to Raglan – a seaside surfer town. It's here that you'll enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise on the pristine harbour. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Auckland (B/L/D)
In the early afternoon, enjoy some free time in the heart of Hamilton before departing for an evening visit to Raglan – a seaside surfer town. It's here that you'll enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise on the pristine harbour. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Auckland (B/L/D)
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast at your hotel.
Not ready to leave Auckland? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay. (B)
Not ready to leave Auckland? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Encounter the volcanic peaks of Middle Earth in Tongariro National Park
- Experience a tea ceremony and Signature High Tea at Zealong Tea Estate, and the bioluminescent glowworm caves of Waitomo
- Discover the iridescent beauty of pāua pearls on a guided Pāua Pearl tour and sip your way through Marlborough's renowned vineyards
- Encounter playful dolphins in Kaikōura
- Embark on two world-class scenic train journeys, traversing breathtaking landscapes while dining in Scenic Plus and be captivated by the storytelling of your tour director along this great journey
- Cross the Cook Strait on a scenic ferry journey, linking the North and South Islands
Activities
- Option to stay in Rotorua or Ohakune (selected departures)
- Experienced tour director
- Raglan dinner cruise
- Sanctuary Mountain Custom Wildlife Experience
- Zealong Tea Estate Tour, Tea Ceremony & Signature High Tea
- Waitomo Caves Glowworm tour
- Marlborough wine tour custom experience
- Pāua Pearl tour with Pāua tasting
- Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura
- Two world-class Scenic train journeys including Scenic Plus dining experience
- Cook Strait ferry Crossing in Premium Lounge
- Northern Explorer Scenic Plus train journey
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus train journey
- Interislander ferry across the Cook Strait
- Private coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage at selected locations
- Fully guided
- 12 Breakfasts
- 1 Picnic lunch
- 6 Dinners
- 4 Meals on the train
- 4 to 5 star hotel (11 nights)
- Twin share
- Single upgrade available
- 16 years and over
- Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
- Maximum of 20 people
Not Included:
- Arrival transfer
- Optional activities (unless specified)
- Meals (unless specified)
- Airfares
- Personal spending money
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Operator
Let us take you there. Travel through New Zealand's picturesque landscapes on one of our unique rail tours, visiting world-famous destinations and idyllic locations on a voyage of discovery. Hosted aboard our award-winning scenic trains, you'll weave through New Zealand's dramatic landscapes in spectacular style.
With more picture-postcard views flowing seamlessly through your panoramic window, the journey will astound you. As your Tour Director leads you beyond the well-beaten paths and highways, you'll become immersed in authentic New Zealand culture. Our unique rail tours take you beyond boundaries on a once-in-a-lifetime journey that you'll treasure forever.
With more picture-postcard views flowing seamlessly through your panoramic window, the journey will astound you. As your Tour Director leads you beyond the well-beaten paths and highways, you'll become immersed in authentic New Zealand culture. Our unique rail tours take you beyond boundaries on a once-in-a-lifetime journey that you'll treasure forever.
Trip Style: Signature
Each Signature Tour takes you deep into New Zealand culture on a unique rail journey filled with amazing local experiences.
Travel to New Zealand's most spectacular locations, while enjoying a Tour Director, 4-4.5 star accommodation, breakfasts, select meals, train journeys, premium activities and transfers.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Thursday
24 Sep 2026
24 Sep 26
Christchurch
Monday
05 Oct 2026
05 Oct 26
Auckland
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $7,424
US$6,682
Save $742
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday
07 Jan 2027
07 Jan 27
Christchurch
Monday
18 Jan 2027
18 Jan 27
Auckland
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $7,424
US$6,682
Save $742
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday
14 Jan 2027
14 Jan 27
Christchurch
Monday
25 Jan 2027
25 Jan 27
Auckland
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $7,094
US$6,385
Save $709
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday
21 Jan 2027
21 Jan 27
Christchurch
Monday
01 Feb 2027
01 Feb 27
Auckland
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $7,424
US$6,682
Save $742
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday
04 Feb 2027
04 Feb 27
Christchurch
Monday
15 Feb 2027
15 Feb 27
Auckland
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $7,094
US$6,385
Save $709
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday
01 Apr 2027
01 Apr 27
Christchurch
Monday
12 Apr 2027
12 Apr 27
Auckland
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $7,094
US$6,385
Save $709
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday
08 Apr 2027
08 Apr 27
Christchurch
Monday
19 Apr 2027
19 Apr 27
Auckland
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $7,094
US$6,385
Save $709
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Great Journeys New Zealand. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Great Journeys New Zealand. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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