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Captivating Coast Tour

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Fully Guided Locally Guided Coach Small Group Rail Short Break Scenic Coastal Pacific

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US$3,059

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Trip Length

6 Days

Trip Starts

Wellington

Trip Finishes

Christchurch

6 Day Captivating Coast Tour Itinerary (Great Journeys New Zealand)

Countries Explored: New Zealand

Trip Operator

Great Journeys New Zealand

No Reviews

Trip Style

Signature

Departures

Jan 2026 to Apr 2026

Accommodation

4 - 4.5 Star

Max. Group Size

Guide Level

Fully Guided, Locally Guided

Trip Code

SWC6

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Great Journeys New Zealand's 6 Day Captivating Coast Tour. Join us on this scenic experience across the Cook Strait, past coastal beaches and through mountain valleys. This adventure is an enviable trip designed for those who want a stress-free, scenic journey like no other. Meet like-minded travellers while experiencing world-class activities in charming locations.

Itinerary

Kia Ora! Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand's capital city! Wellington is known for its world-class dining, great coffee and eccentric shops. Your great journey will officially begin the moment you check into your hotel room. After reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Wellington has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to get cultured at Te Papa Museum or grab a drink at one of the many quirky bars on Cuba Street. You may even fancy a ride on the cable car!

After an exciting day on the town, join your fellow travellers as well as the Tour Director at this evening's welcome reception. Stay: Rydges Wellington (or similar), Wellington

This morning you will say Haere ra to Te Ika a Maui (good-bye to the North Island) as you sail to the South Island, crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry. As the shores of the North Island slowly disappear, enjoy a hearty seafaring breakfast on board. Around mid-day, you will be spoiled with harbour views entering the Queen Charlotte Sound. Admire the beauty of this coastal paradise as you arrive at the gateway of the South Island, Picton.

Step off the Interislander Ferry and join your next world-class experience on a Marlborough Wine Tour! Stay: Picton Beachcomber Inn (or similar), Picton (B)

The morning is yours to explore Picton. Meander through the local craft stores and coastal walks, or perhaps take a cruise to the Queen Charlotte Sound. Enjoy the waterfront cafes before boarding the Coastal Pacific train for another highlight rail journey through the Marlborough Wine Region. Today you will be travelling into Kaikōura.

Relax and let the train glide you across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks! Once in Kaikōura, the evening will be yours to enjoy some iconic kai moana (seafood) at one of the quaint restaurants. Stay: Sudima Kaikoura (or similar), Kaikoura (B)

Today will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience of whale watching! Enjoy today's thrill of an up-close encounter with the world's largest-toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale. If you would prefer to gain an aerial experience of the wildlife, why not request a plane or helicopter ride to capture the true grandeur of it all?

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.

In the late afternoon, your journey will continue, once again, on the Coastal Pacific Train enroute to Christchurch, or “The Garden City”. The spectacular scenery doesn't cease to amaze as you journey south through the rolling hills and flat plains. Enjoy the relaxing journey with a glass of wine in hand from the scenic café. Sit back and relax for the remainder of the evening before hitting the town the following day. Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch (or similar), Christchurch (B)

Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is still rebuilding itself into a multi-cultural haven. So, without further delay, jump on the historic tram to learn the history, tales, and culture of Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Enjoy your free time as you explore the Arts Centre, Quake City Museum and botanical gardens. There is also a multitude of delicious cafes tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love. If you are in the mood for something different, set off for Akaroa, a French coastal settlement just outside the city. Dinner awaits as you join your fellow travellers once again to tell them about the exciting places you have discovered. Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch (or similar), Christchurch (B/D)

Your journey will finish after breakfast. (B)

Trip Inclusions

The journey is part of the destination on our tours, and our Scenic trains and ferries are the ultimate way to see New Zealand. On our Signature Captivating Coast tour, your journey will begin with a cruise by ferry through Wellington Harbour and across Cook Strait to the magnificent Marlborough Sounds. From Picton, you'll voyage through vineyards and along the Pacific Coast to Kaikoura aboard the Coastal Pacific train. Your final journey is again aboard the Coastal Pacific train, meandering alongside secluded beaches on your way to Christchurch.

Sip world-class wine among the vines in Marlborough
Journey through the Queen Charlotte Sounds
Whales, dolphins and sea life – spend the day surrounded by wildlife in Kaikōura
Explore New Zealand's city life in Wellington, Picton, Kaikoura and Christchurch
Be captivated by the storytelling of your local tour director along this great adventure

Experienced Tour Director
Christchurch City Tour
Marlborough Wine Experience
Whale Watching in Kaikōura
Coastal Pacific Scenic Train Journey
Interislander Cook Strait Ferry Crossing

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

Twin Share

Solo Share

Solo (Own Room)

Tuesday 27 Jan 2026 27 Jan 26 Wellington

Sunday 01 Feb 2026 01 Feb 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

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Tuesday 03 Feb 2026 03 Feb 26 Wellington

Sunday 08 Feb 2026 08 Feb 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

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Tuesday 10 Feb 2026 10 Feb 26 Wellington

Sunday 15 Feb 2026 15 Feb 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 17 Feb 2026 17 Feb 26 Wellington

Sunday 22 Feb 2026 22 Feb 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

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Tuesday 24 Feb 2026 24 Feb 26 Wellington

Sunday 01 Mar 2026 01 Mar 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 03 Mar 2026 03 Mar 26 Wellington

Sunday 08 Mar 2026 08 Mar 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 10 Mar 2026 10 Mar 26 Wellington

Sunday 15 Mar 2026 15 Mar 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 17 Mar 2026 17 Mar 26 Wellington

Sunday 22 Mar 2026 22 Mar 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 24 Mar 2026 24 Mar 26 Wellington

Sunday 29 Mar 2026 29 Mar 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 31 Mar 2026 31 Mar 26 Wellington

Sunday 05 Apr 2026 05 Apr 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 07 Apr 2026 07 Apr 26 Wellington

Sunday 12 Apr 2026 12 Apr 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 14 Apr 2026 14 Apr 26 Wellington

Sunday 19 Apr 2026 19 Apr 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 21 Apr 2026 21 Apr 26 Wellington

Sunday 26 Apr 2026 26 Apr 26 Christchurch

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount

Was: $3,399

US$3,059

Save $340

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

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.

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.