Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Great Journeys New Zealand's 17 Day New Zealand Up Close Tour (Northbound). Experience New Zealand in premium comfort on the Signature New Zealand up close tour, an elevated rail journey with Great Journeys New Zealand from Auckland to Queenstown. Combining world-famous scenic trains, boutique accommodation and curated regional experiences, this seamless North and South Island adventure invites you to travel deeper, without the stress of organising it yourself. With an expert tour director and premium inclusions throughout, every day on the Signature New read more Zealand up close tour delivers spectacular landscapes and refined “only in New Zealand” moments.
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US$9,206 per person
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Trip Length
17 Days
Trip Starts
Queenstown
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
SAQR
Itinerary
Kia ora and welcome to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu 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)
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu 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)
Today, venture into Fiordland National Park for a full-day tour to the world-renowned Milford Sound. Travel along one of the most scenic drives in the country, stopping at mirror lakes, alpine meadows and dramatic viewpoints.
Enjoy a scenic cruise through the sound, surrounded by towering peaks, cascading waterfalls and, if you're lucky, pods of dolphins. After a picnic lunch on board, return to Queenstown by coach or optional scenic flight (weather permitting). Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Queenstown & Milford Sound (B/L)
Enjoy a scenic cruise through the sound, surrounded by towering peaks, cascading waterfalls and, if you're lucky, pods of dolphins. After a picnic lunch on board, return to Queenstown by coach or optional scenic flight (weather permitting). Stay: 4 - 5 Star Accommodation, Queenstown & Milford Sound (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: 4–4.5 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: 4–4.5 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, where you'll learn about the conservation of New Zealand's rarest kiwi – the rowi – and see this endangered species up close.
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 Glowworm Dell after dark – a magical end to the day. Stay: 4–4.5 Star Accommodation, West Coast (B)
Next, enjoy an exclusive VIP backstage tour at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, where you'll learn about the conservation of New Zealand's rarest kiwi – the rowi – and see this endangered species up close.
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 Glowworm Dell after dark – a magical end to the day. Stay: 4–4.5 Star Accommodation, West Coast (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: 4-4.5 Star Oceanfront 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: 4-4.5 Star Oceanfront 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, Marlborough (B/L)
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, Marlborough (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: Marlborough Sounds Resort, Marlborough (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: Marlborough Sounds Resort, Marlborough (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: 4-5 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: 4-5 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: 4-5 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: 4-5 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 or Rotorua, depending on your chosen itinerary. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening. Stay: 4–4.5 Star Accommodation, Tongariro National Park OR Rotorua (B/L)
By early afternoon, you'll arrive in either Tongariro National Park or Rotorua, depending on your chosen itinerary. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening. Stay: 4–4.5 Star Accommodation, Tongariro National Park OR Rotorua (B/L)
If staying in Tongariro National Park:
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.
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/D)
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.
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/D)
If travelling via Ohakune:
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. 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)
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. 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)
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! Next, discover the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves and be dazzled by the seemingly star-filled sky as you glide by boat through this impressive cave formation.
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)
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! Next, discover the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves and be dazzled by the seemingly star-filled sky as you glide by boat through this impressive cave formation.
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)
Begin your 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.
Then its all aboard on 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: 4–5 Star Accommodation, Auckland (B/D)
Then its all aboard on 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: 4–5 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
- 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
- Escape on nautical adventures in Milford Sound and Queen Charlotte Sound
- 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 three 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 visit 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
- Forgotten World garden tour and lunch
- Wellington city tour
- Marlborough custom wine tour
- Pāua pearl tour with pāua tasting
- Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura
- Guided Pounamu experience including Hokitika Gorge Walk
- Haast River Safari
- VIP West Coast Wildlife Centre guided walkthrough of Kiwi
- Milford Sound day tour and Cruise
- TSS Walter Peak buffet dinner with farm tour
- Three world-class scenic train journeys including Scenic Plus dining experience
- Northern Explorer Scenic Plus train journey
- Interislander ferry journey across the Cook Strait
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus train journey
- TranzAlpine Scenic Plus train journey
- Private coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage at selected locations
- Fully guided
- 16 Breakfasts
- 2 Lunches
- 8 Dinners
- 5 Meals on the train
- 4 to 5 star hotel (16 nights)
- Twin share
- Single upgrade available
- 16 years and over
- Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
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
Saturday
19 Sep 2026
19 Sep 26
Queenstown
Monday
05 Oct 2026
05 Oct 26
Auckland
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $10,427
US$9,384
Save $1,043
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
02 Jan 2027
02 Jan 27
Queenstown
Monday
18 Jan 2027
18 Jan 27
Auckland
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $10,427
US$9,384
Save $1,043
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
30 Jan 2027
30 Jan 27
Queenstown
Monday
15 Feb 2027
15 Feb 27
Auckland
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $10,229
US$9,206
Save $1,023
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
27 Mar 2027
27 Mar 27
Queenstown
Monday
12 Apr 2027
12 Apr 27
Auckland
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $10,229
US$9,206
Save $1,023
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
03 Apr 2027
03 Apr 27
Queenstown
Monday
19 Apr 2027
19 Apr 27
Auckland
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $10,229
US$9,206
Save $1,023
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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