Fully Guided
Locally Guided
Coach
Small Group
Rail
Scenic
Coastal Pacific
Northern Explorer
TranzAlpine
Our Price From
US$8,754
Save up To $979
Twin Share (Per Person)
Trip Style
Signature
Departures
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star
Max. Group Size
20
Guide Level
Fully Guided, Locally Guided
Trip Code
SAQ17R
Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Great Journeys New Zealand's 17 Day New Zealand Up Close Tour (Northbound). Venture beyond the guidebooks on this fully guided rail tour from Queenstown to Auckland that links three world-class scenic train journeys, curated with experiences exclusive to Great Journeys New Zealand. Travel through spectacular landscapes and vibrant cities on this all-encompassing journey will ignite your sense of adventure with exclusive, unforgettable experiences and authentic local insights.
Itinerary
Kia ora and welcome to Queenstown – the adventure capital of New Zealand! Nestled on the shores of Lake Whakatipu and framed by the mighty Remarkables, Queenstown offers a stunning introduction to the South Island.
You'll meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers in the mid-afternoon before heading across the lake aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship. At Walter Peak Station, enjoy a delicious gourmet BBQ dinner and soak in the serene lakeside views — a memorable way to begin your 17-day journey through Aotearoa. Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Queenstown (D)
You'll meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers in the mid-afternoon before heading across the lake aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship. At Walter Peak Station, enjoy a delicious gourmet BBQ dinner and soak in the serene lakeside views — a memorable way to begin your 17-day journey through Aotearoa. Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Queenstown (D)
Charge your camera and prepare for one of the most awe-inspiring adventures of your journey. Today, you'll travel to the majestic Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, often called the 8th Wonder of the World, aboard our exclusive Cruise Milford Coach service.
Relax in comfort as we wind through native rainforests, alpine meadows, and mirror-like reflective pools—complete with custom stops tailored to your group's interests. On arrival, step aboard your boutique cruise and journey deep into the heart of the fjord. Feel the mist from Bowen and Stirling Falls, marvel at the vertical face of Mitre Peak, and take in the dramatic beauty carved by ancient glaciers.
For those looking to elevate the experience, there's an optional scenic flight available for your return—soaring above the Southern Alps for a breathtaking aerial perspective of Fiordland. After this unforgettable day, return to Queenstown for a relaxing evening at your own pace.
Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Queenstown (B/L)
Relax in comfort as we wind through native rainforests, alpine meadows, and mirror-like reflective pools—complete with custom stops tailored to your group's interests. On arrival, step aboard your boutique cruise and journey deep into the heart of the fjord. Feel the mist from Bowen and Stirling Falls, marvel at the vertical face of Mitre Peak, and take in the dramatic beauty carved by ancient glaciers.
For those looking to elevate the experience, there's an optional scenic flight available for your return—soaring above the Southern Alps for a breathtaking aerial perspective of Fiordland. After this unforgettable day, return to Queenstown for a relaxing evening at your own pace.
Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Queenstown (B/L)
Depart Queenstown this morning and travel north along the wild West Coast. Enjoy a photo stop in Wānaka, then journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Haast Pass, where waterfalls tumble through ancient beech forests.
En route, experience the spectacular Haast River Safari, a jet boat adventure through a stunning UNESCO World Heritage wilderness.
Arrive in the glacier region of Franz Josef, a charming village nestled near the base of its mighty namesake glacier. This evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner at Te Waonui Forest Retreat, surrounded by native rainforest. Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Franz Josef (B/D)
En route, experience the spectacular Haast River Safari, a jet boat adventure through a stunning UNESCO World Heritage wilderness.
Arrive in the glacier region of Franz Josef, a charming village nestled near the base of its mighty namesake glacier. This evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner at Te Waonui Forest Retreat, surrounded by native rainforest. Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Franz Josef (B/D)
Begin your day with a visit to the Franz Josef Glacier viewpoint, or choose an optional scenic helicopter flight (weather dependent) for a truly unforgettable perspective of the glacier and surrounding peaks.
Next, enjoy an exclusive VIP backstage tour at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, a special, guided walkthrough designed exclusively for Great Journeys New Zealand guests. Go behind the scenes to learn about the conservation efforts for the rare Rowi kiwi and discover the secrets of this fascinating native species in a truly immersive encounter.
In the afternoon, travel north to the artistic town of Hokitika, famous for its greenstone (pounamu). The evening is yours to explore, with the option to visit the enchanting Hokitika Glow Worm Dell after dark – a magical end to the day.
Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Hokitika (B)
Next, enjoy an exclusive VIP backstage tour at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, a special, guided walkthrough designed exclusively for Great Journeys New Zealand guests. Go behind the scenes to learn about the conservation efforts for the rare Rowi kiwi and discover the secrets of this fascinating native species in a truly immersive encounter.
In the afternoon, travel north to the artistic town of Hokitika, famous for its greenstone (pounamu). The evening is yours to explore, with the option to visit the enchanting Hokitika Glow Worm Dell after dark – a magical end to the day.
Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Hokitika (B)
Start your day with a scenic journey north to Hokitika, where you'll enjoy a Greenstone carving demonstration and guided walk through the stunning Hokitika Gorge – known for its vibrant turquoise waters.
Then, board the TranzAlpine Scenic Plus train in Greymouth. Enjoy a premium rail experience with locally inspired cuisine and full onboard service as you cross the Southern Alps via dramatic viaducts and Arthur's Pass, arriving in Christchurch by evening. Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Christchurch (B/L/D)
Then, board the TranzAlpine Scenic Plus train in Greymouth. Enjoy a premium rail experience with locally inspired cuisine and full onboard service as you cross the Southern Alps via dramatic viaducts and Arthur's Pass, arriving in Christchurch by evening. Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Christchurch (B/L/D)
Spend the day discovering Christchurch, a city of remarkable transformation. Your guided city tour will highlight the Botanic Gardens, Transitional Cardboard Cathedral and the creative urban rebuild projects.
Your Hop-On Hop-Off Tram ticket allows you to explore the city at your own pace. This evening, gather with your group for a special dinner at Earl, a celebrated local restaurant known for its seasonal cuisine and warm hospitality. Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Christchurch (B/D)
Your Hop-On Hop-Off Tram ticket allows you to explore the city at your own pace. This evening, gather with your group for a special dinner at Earl, a celebrated local restaurant known for its seasonal cuisine and warm hospitality. Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Christchurch (B/D)
Travel north along the spectacular coastline aboard the Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus train. Relax with premium seating and gourmet cuisine as you journey past vineyards, surf beaches, and dramatic headlands.
Arriving in Kaikōura, choose to explore the seaside village or join an included Dolphin Encounter – with the option to upgrade to swim with these playful marine mammals. This evening, enjoy a relaxed night by the ocean and perhaps a seafood dinner featuring local crayfish. Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Kaikōura (B)
Arriving in Kaikōura, choose to explore the seaside village or join an included Dolphin Encounter – with the option to upgrade to swim with these playful marine mammals. This evening, enjoy a relaxed night by the ocean and perhaps a seafood dinner featuring local crayfish. Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Kaikōura (B)
Depart Kaikōura and continue your journey north into the Marlborough region, New Zealand's largest and most famous wine-producing area. Enjoy a three-course lunch at a boutique winery, paired with their award-winning wines. Visit two more cellar doors and the Makana Chocolate Boutique before arriving at your hotel in Blenheim. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Blenheim (B/L)
Start your day with a visit to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to an extraordinary collection of WWI and WWII aircraft brought to life with creative dioramas curated by Sir Peter Jackson. Gain a unique insight into New Zealand's wartime aviation history.
After your museum visit, you'll journey by scenic water taxi into the tranquil beauty of the Marlborough Sounds. Take in the breathtaking views as you cruise to your resort-style accommodation, tucked away in this peaceful paradise.
This afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure – kayak, hike the nearby trails, or simply relax and take in the stillness of the sea. This evening, gather for a delicious dinner at your Marlborough Sounds accommodation. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Marlborough Sounds (B/D)
After your museum visit, you'll journey by scenic water taxi into the tranquil beauty of the Marlborough Sounds. Take in the breathtaking views as you cruise to your resort-style accommodation, tucked away in this peaceful paradise.
This afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure – kayak, hike the nearby trails, or simply relax and take in the stillness of the sea. This evening, gather for a delicious dinner at your Marlborough Sounds accommodation. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Marlborough Sounds (B/D)
After a relaxing morning, board a water taxi back to Picton, where a special visit awaits – the Pāua Pearl Farm. Learn how these unique iridescent pearls are cultivated and enjoy a chance to sample fresh pāua with a morning tea overlooking the Marlborough Sounds.
Later in the afternoon, board the Interislander Ferry for your scenic cruise across the Cook Strait. Enjoy premium lounge access, with complimentary afternoon tea and beverages as you sail into Wellington Harbour. Your ferry docks around 5:15pm, delivering you into the heart of New Zealand's capital. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Wellington (B/D)
Later in the afternoon, board the Interislander Ferry for your scenic cruise across the Cook Strait. Enjoy premium lounge access, with complimentary afternoon tea and beverages as you sail into Wellington Harbour. Your ferry docks around 5:15pm, delivering you into the heart of New Zealand's capital. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Wellington (B/D)
Spend the day uncovering the heart of Wellington, New Zealand's capital of creativity, culture and coffee. Begin with a 2-hour guided city tour, taking in the iconic Beehive, Parliament Buildings, Mt Victoria lookout and more as your guide shares stories of the city's history and modern-day vibrancy.
This evening, enjoy a hosted group dinner at a local Wellington restaurant, sampling some of the capital's best cuisine alongside your fellow travellers. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Wellington (B/D)
This evening, enjoy a hosted group dinner at a local Wellington restaurant, sampling some of the capital's best cuisine alongside your fellow travellers. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Wellington (B/D)
Board the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus carriage this morning and enjoy a premium rail experience as you depart Wellington. Relax with locally inspired food and drink as you glide through river gorges and lush farmland, bound for the volcanic heart of the North Island.
By early afternoon, you'll arrive in either Tongariro National Park. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Ohakune (B/L)
By early afternoon, you'll arrive in either Tongariro National Park. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Ohakune (B/L)
Start your day with a scenic drive to Tūroa ski field on Mt Ruapehu. Here, panoramic views of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed volcanic landscape await. Capture your own slice of Middle Earth before descending into Ohakune for an evening of relaxation or exploration. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Ohakune (B/D)
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 for an evening at leisure. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Hamilton (B)
Begin your final day 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 afternoon, board the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus for the last leg of your rail adventure. Travel north past rolling farmland and alongside the Waikato River before arriving into Auckland, the City of Sails.
Enjoy Scenic Plus dinner onboard as you toast to your journey. Upon arrival, gather for a farewell cocktail at your Auckland hotel. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Hamilton (B/L/D)
In the afternoon, board the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus for the last leg of your rail adventure. Travel north past rolling farmland and alongside the Waikato River before arriving into Auckland, the City of Sails.
Enjoy Scenic Plus dinner onboard as you toast to your journey. Upon arrival, gather for a farewell cocktail at your Auckland hotel. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Hamilton (B/L/D)
Today you'll board the final stretch of the Northern Explorer as you head into New Zealand's largest city, Auckland. Glide past farmland and alongside the sparkling Waikato River, before arriving in the heart of the City of Sails.
This afternoon is yours to explore – head up the Sky Tower for sweeping views, visit the Auckland Art Gallery, or relax in one of the many waterfront eateries. This evening, join your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a celebratory farewell dinner. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Auckland (B/D)
This afternoon is yours to explore – head up the Sky Tower for sweeping views, visit the Auckland Art Gallery, or relax in one of the many waterfront eateries. This evening, join your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a celebratory farewell dinner. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Auckland (B/D)
After breakfast, your tour concludes. Whether you're flying home or continuing your travels, take with you a camera full of photos, new friendships, and memories to last a lifetime. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Ride all three world-famous scenic train journeys in Scenic Plus premium comfort
- Explore Tongariro National Park, Middle Earth's volcanic peaks
- Enjoy a tea ceremony and Signature High Tea at Zealong Tea Estate
- Cruise the glowworm-lit Waitomo Caves
- Relax in the beauty of Milford Sound, Queen Charlotte Sound, and Lake Wakatipu
- Explore the capital with a Wellington City Tour
- Visit a pāua pearl farm and enjoy wine tasting in Marlborough
- Spot dolphins in Kaikōura
- Scenic ferry journey across the Cook Strait onboard the Interislander
- Be captivated by the storytelling of your Tour Director along this great journey
- Experienced Tour Director
- Sanctuary Mountain Custom Wildlife Experience
- Zealong Tea Estate Tour, Tea Ceremony & Signature High Tea
- Waitomi Caves Glowworm Tour
- Lunch at Lauren's Lavender with time to explore
- City Tour of Wellington
- Marlborough Wine Tour Custom Experience
- Omaka Aviation Heritage Museum
- Paua Pearl Tour with Paua Tasting
- Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura
- Guided Pounamu Experience including Hokitika Gorge Walk
- Haast River Safari
- Exclusive tour of the West Coast Wildlife centre, guided walkthrough of Kiwi
- Milford Sound Day Tour and Cruise
- Three World-Class Scenic Train Journeys including Scenic Plus Dining Experience
- Cook Strait Ferry Crossing in Premium Plus Lounge
Not Included:
- Arrival transfer
- Optional activities (unless specified)
- Meals (unless specified)
- Airfares
- Personal spending money
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
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
Sunday
20 Sep 2026
20 Sep 26
Queenstown
Tuesday
06 Oct 2026
06 Oct 26
Auckland
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,791
US$8,812
Save $979
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
11 Oct 2026
11 Oct 26
Queenstown
Tuesday
27 Oct 2026
27 Oct 26
Auckland
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,791
US$8,812
Save $979
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
01 Nov 2026
01 Nov 26
Queenstown
Tuesday
17 Nov 2026
17 Nov 26
Auckland
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,791
US$8,812
Save $979
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
22 Nov 2026
22 Nov 26
Queenstown
Tuesday
08 Dec 2026
08 Dec 26
Auckland
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,727
US$8,754
Save $973
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
10 Jan 2027
10 Jan 27
Queenstown
Tuesday
26 Jan 2027
26 Jan 27
Auckland
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,727
US$8,754
Save $973
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
31 Jan 2027
31 Jan 27
Queenstown
Tuesday
16 Feb 2027
16 Feb 27
Auckland
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,727
US$8,754
Save $973
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
21 Feb 2027
21 Feb 27
Queenstown
Tuesday
09 Mar 2027
09 Mar 27
Auckland
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,791
US$8,812
Save $979
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
14 Mar 2027
14 Mar 27
Queenstown
Tuesday
30 Mar 2027
30 Mar 27
Auckland
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,727
US$8,754
Save $973
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
04 Apr 2027
04 Apr 27
Queenstown
Tuesday
20 Apr 2027
20 Apr 27
Auckland
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,727
US$8,754
Save $973
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
25 Apr 2027
25 Apr 27
Queenstown
Tuesday
11 May 2027
11 May 27
Auckland
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,727
US$8,754
Save $973
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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