Overview
Itinerary
Arrive in the ‘City of Sails', where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
Tonight, enjoy a special Welcome Dinner as you get to know your fellow travellers. Stay Two Nights: Sudima Hotel Auckland (D)
Insider Experience: In a plume of smoke, be magically transported back in time on a journey aboard this beautiful vintage steam train as postcard-perfect vistas sweep past your window. Travel through the spectacular Franklin countryside before stopping at the Pukeoware Depot to explore the workshop, view other historic locomotives and enjoy a morning tea.
After breakfast, board your coach and head towards the Mamaku Ranges for a special Insider Experience. In Rotorua, visit Te Puia Cultural Centre and tour the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute before another Insider Experience this evening, where you will savour traditional culture and food. Stay Two Nights: Sudima Rotorua (B/D)
Insider Experience: Embark on an extraordinary RailCruising journey aboard a self-driven, four-seater, hybrid rail car. Enjoy a rail experience like no other, as you take in unobstructed 360-degree views of the scenery that unfolds before you. Travel through the picturesque Mamaku Ranges near Rotorua, listening to an audio tour as you move along at 20km/h.
Insider Experience: Immerse yourself in a unique evening of Maori culture, and cuisine at Te Puia. Embark on a guided tour through the historical geothermal valley, where you'll explore a stunning landscape of native bush, geysers, and mud pools. Feel the awe-inspiring power of Pohutu Geyser, the largest geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. Experience an intimate encounter with one of New Zealand's national treasures at their new Kiwi Conservation Centre. Visit New Zealand's Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and the Ahua Gallery, where traditional artistry comes to life. That evening, enjoy a Haka powhiri (cultural welcome), dance performances and the sharing of a traditional meal of fish, lamb and vegetables slow-cooked in earth ovens known as Hangi.
Rotorua captures the essence of New Zealand with its geothermal geysers, fascinating Maori culture and rich heritage. Your sightseeing continues with a visit to one of New Zealand's best-loved attractions, the Agrodome.
Afterwards, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore further or simply relax. (B)
Insider Experience: Board the Northern Explorer Train in Otorohanga and embark on a scenic journey southward, ascending the Central Volcanic Plateau. Experience the engineering marvel of the Raurimu Spiral, renowned for its intricate and breathtaking design. Its carriages feature an advanced air-bag system which allows for a smooth and quiet ride. Enjoy uninterrupted views through panoramic, non-reflective windows on the sides and roof.
After breakfast today, head to Featherston to visit the fascinating Fell Locomotive Museum. It is home to the world's only remaining Fell steam locomotive, which dates back to 1877. The locomotive's innovative design allowed it to haul carriages up the steep Rimutaka Incline, using four grip wheels held onto a raised centre rail. (B)
Insider Experience: Skirt the glorious Kaikoura coastline on a journey aboard the Coastal Pacific train. Large panoramic windows and an open-air viewing platform afford unobstructed views of incredible landscapes where the mountains meet the sea.
Insider Experience: Journey across the South Island from coast to coast on this world-famous rail journey. Climb over the snow-capped Southern Alps through striking scenery to the wild West Coast.
Enjoy a day of truly beautiful scenery as you travel to the alpine resort of Queenstown. Known as the country's adventure capital, Queenstown is also renowned for its world-class culinary scene.
This evening, you may like to sample some of the region's fresh flavours at one of the many restaurants that are within walking distance of your hotel (own expense). Stay Two Nights: Queenstown, Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview (B)
Insider Experience: Ride the Skyline gondola to the top of Bob's Peak, 480 metres above the city. Marvel at the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and the town sprawling out beneath you.
Insider Experience: Journey through the beautiful Fiordland National Park on your way to magnificent Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Once you arrive, set sail on a cruise along the full length of its pristine waters, basking in all the natural wonders you encounter.
Enjoy spectacular scenery today as you drive from Te Anau to the Scottish-inspired southern city of Dunedin. Stay: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City (B/D)
Journey north to view the Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki. A geological marvel, these large spherical stones were formed around 65 million years ago and can be found along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. Then, continue to Oamaru and visit the Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo/Takapo.
Later, arrive at your resort. Stay: Lake Tekapo/Takapo, Peppers Bluewater Resort (B/D)
Insider Experience: Traverse the glorious alpine landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and take in the spectacular surrounds as you pass towering mountains and glacier-fed rivers. Stop to admire breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, which is New Zealand's highest peak.
Your tour concludes after breakfast with a transfer to the airport. (B)
Arrive in the ‘City of Sails', where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a special Welcome Dinner as you get to know your fellow travellers. Stay Two Nights: Sudima Auckland City (D)
Today begins with an Insider Experience. Afterwards, return to Auckland by coach. (B)
Insider Experience - Journey aboard a steam train on the Glenbrook Vintage Railway In a plume of smoke, be magically transported back in time on a journey aboard this beautiful vintage train as postcard-perfect vistas sweep past your window. Travel through the spectacular Franklin countryside before stopping at the Pukeoware Depot to explore the workshop, view other historic locomotives and enjoy a morning tea.
After breakfast, board your coach and travel south through the lush landscapes of the Waikato region en route to Rotorua. This evening, enjoy an Insider Experience, where you will savour traditional culture and food. Stay Two Nights: Sudima Lake Rotorua (B/D)
Insider Experience - Māori culture and geothermal wonders at Te Puia in Rotorua Immerse yourself in a unique evening of Māori culture, and cuisine at Te Puia. Embark on a guided tour through the historical geothermal valley, where you'll explore a stunning landscape of native bush, geysers, and mud pools. Feel the awe-inspiring power of Pōhutu Geyser, the largest geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. Experience an intimate encounter with one of New Zealand's national treasures at their new Kiwi Conservation Centre. That evening, enjoy a Haka pōwhiri (cultural welcome), dance performances and the sharing of a traditional meal of fish, lamb and vegetables slow-cooked in earth ovens known as Hāngī.
Rotorua captures the essence of New Zealand with its geothermal geysers, fascinating Māori culture and rich heritage. Your sightseeing continues with a visit to one of New Zealand's best-loved attractions, the Agrodome. Alternatively, you might like to partake in our Enhance Your Journey experience. Afterwards, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore further or simply relax. (B)
Enhance Your Journey - Hobbiton movie set and farm tour Enjoy a scenic drive to The Shire's Rest Cafe, where a guide will escort you through the site, visiting buildings created for The Lord of the Rings movies (additional expense).
Disembark in National Park Village where you will rejoin your coach and continue to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city. Stay Two Nights: Novotel Wellington (B/D)
Insider Experience - Board the Northern Explorer train for a scenic journey to the central Volcanic Plateau Board the Northern Explorer in Otorohanga and embark on a scenic journey southward, across the central Volcanic Plateau. Experience the engineering marvel of the Raurimu Spiral, renowned for its intricate and breathtaking design. Its carriages feature an advanced air-bag system which allows for a smooth and quiet ride. Enjoy uninterrupted views through panoramic, non-reflective windows on the sides and roof.
After breakfast today, head to Featherston to visit the fascinating Fell Locomotive Museum. It is home to the world's only remaining Fell steam locomotive, which dates back to 1877. The locomotive's innovative design allowed it to haul carriages up the steep Rimutaka Incline, using four grip wheels held onto a raised centre rail.
After heading back to Wellington, set off on a sightseeing tour of the Wellington's best-loved landmarks and sights. Later, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (B)
This morning, enjoy one of the most scenic cruises in the world as you travel aboard the Interislander ferry. Departing from Wellington Harbour, navigate the journey across Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton on the South Island. Here, you will embark on an Insider Experience. Afterwards, return to your coach to travel to Christchurch. Stay: Hotel Elms Christchurch (B/D)
Insider Experience - Traverse the glorious Kaikōura coastline aboard the Coastal Pacific train Skirt the glorious Kaikōura coastline on a journey aboard the Coastal Pacific train. Large panoramic windows and an open-air viewing platform afford unobstructed views of incredible landscapes where the mountains meet the sea.
Enjoy an Insider Experience after breakfast this morning, travelling aboard the renowned TranzAlpine train. Upon arrival at Greymouth, you will disembark and travel by coach to the incredible natural surrounds of the Franz Josef/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere and Fox Glaciers. Stay: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier (B/D)
Insider Experience - Ride the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth Journey across the South Island from coast to coast on this world-famous rail journey. Follow the Waimakariri River and travel across the Southern Alps through striking scenery to the wild West Coast.
Enjoy a day of truly beautiful scenery as you travel to the alpine resort of Queenstown. Known as the country's adventure capital, Queenstown is also renowned for its world-class culinary scene. This evening, you may like to sample some of the region's fresh flavours at one of the many restaurants that are within walking distance of your hotel (own expense). Stay Two Nights: Queenstown, Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview (B)
Today starts with an Insider Experience. Then, enjoy lunch at one of the famous Ferg Foods restaurants located in the city centre (Fergburger, Ferg's Bar, Mrs Ferg and Fergbaker). The rest of the day is free for you to spend at leisure. You'll find plenty to see and do in and around Queenstown, from thrilling adventures through to simply relaxing and enjoying the incredible views. Perhaps choose one of our exciting Enhance Your Journey experiences on offer. (B/L)
Insider Experience - Ride the Skyline Gondola to Bob's Peak in Queenstown Ride the Skyline gondola to the top of Bob's Peak, 480 metres above the city. Marvel at the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and the town sprawling out beneath you.
Enhance Your Journey - Shotover Jet Boat Ride Those feeling adventurous can head out on a thrilling jet boat ride, roaring through narrow river canyons just centimetres from sheer rock walls.
Enhance Your Journey - Million Dollar Cruise Glide across the mystical waters of Lake Wakatipu, keeping your eyes peeled for local bird life as well as enormous trout, which swim in the lake's waters.
Enhance Your Journey - TSS Earnslaw Cruise Join the historic steamer TSS Earnslaw on a cruise to Walter Peak Station for dinner, where you will gain an insight into farming life in New Zealand's high country.
Follow The Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu to Fiordland National Park. Here a memorable Insider Experience awaits. Stay: Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau (B/D)
Insider Experience - Cruise Milford Sound/Piopiotahi and enjoy spectacular views Journey through the beautiful Fiordland National Park on your way to magnificent Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Once you arrive, set sail on a cruise along the full length of its pristine waters, basking in all the natural wonders you encounter.
Journey through the rugged countryside of Southland before arriving in Dunedin for a city tour. This picturesque city is known as the wildlife capital of New Zealand, where you can spot sea lions, fur seals, rare penguins and the world's only mainland-breeding albatross colony. After being settled by Scots in 1848, the city has retained its Gaelic roots with its stunning Gaelic-inspired architecture, performances of the haggis ceremony and the finest-tasting whisky in the country. Stay: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City (B/D)
Journey north to view the Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki. A geological marvel, these large spherical stones were formed around 65 million years ago and can be found along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. Then, continue to Oamaru and visit the Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo/Takapō. Later, arrive at your resort. Stay: Lake Tekapo/Takapō, Peppers Bluewater Resort (B/D)
Journey into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where you will enjoy an Insider Experience. Later, head back to Christchurch for a special Farewell Dinner. Stay: Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport (B/D)
Insider Experience - Admire stunning views in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Traverse the glorious alpine landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and take in the spectacular surrounds as you pass towering mountains and glacier-fed rivers. Stop to admire breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, which is New Zealand's highest peak.
Your tour concludes after breakfast with a transfer to the airport. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Take a ride aboard the Glenbrook Vintage Steam Train
- Immerse yourself in an evening of Maori Culture and Cuisine
- Ride the Coastal Pacific Train along the Kaikoura coastline
- Take the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth
- Cruise the full length of Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, a magnificent fiord with views of waterfalls
- 14 nights in premium accommodation
- The services of a Travelmarvel Tour Director and experienced Driver
- Prices include all sightseeing, cruises, rail travel, entrance fees as specified, and airport transfers on the first and last day
- 24 meals – 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 9 dinners including special Welcome and Farewell Dinners
- Itinerary, inclusions and pricing are subject to change
- Prices are for land/rail only. Flights not included unless specified
- Glenbrook Vintage Steam Train: In a plume of smoke, be magically transported back in time on a journey aboard this beautiful vintage steam train. Travel through the spectacular Franklin countryside before stopping at the Pukeoware Depot to explore the workshop, view other historic locomotives and enjoy a morning tea.
- Travel Aboard a RailCruiser: Embark on an extraordinary RailCruising journey aboard a self-driven, four-seater, hybrid rail car. Enjoy a rail experience like no other, as you take in unobstructed 360-degree views of the scenery that unfolds before you. Travel through the picturesque Mamaku Ranges near Rotorua, listening to an audio tour as you move along at 20km/h.
- Ride the iconic TranzAlpine train to Arthur's Pass: Journey across the South Island from Christchurch on this world-famous rail journey. Ascend into the snow-capped Southern Alps, passing through striking scenery to Arthur's Pass.
- Coastal Pacific Train: Join the Coastal Pacific train at Picton Station and travel through spectacular coastal scenery to the charming town of Kaikōura, nestled in Canterbury's scenic region. Be inspired by the magnificent landscapes nestled between the mountains and sea as you travel along one of the most picturesque rail journeys in the country.
- Milford Sound/Piopiotahi Cruise: Journey through the beautiful Fiordland National Park on your way to magnificent Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Once you arrive, set sail on a cruise along the full length of its pristine waters, basking in all the natural wonders you encounter.
- Itinerary, inclusions and pricing are subject to change
- Prices include all sightseeing, cruises, rail travel and entrance fees as specified, as well as airport transfers on the first and last day
- Prices are for land/rail only. Flights not included
- Small Group Departures (max 24 guests)
- 15th September 2026
- 12th January 2027
- 23rd February 2027
- 2nd March 2027
Trip Reviews (4) Most Recent 'New Zealand Rail Adventure' Reviews
The description of the trip was misleading and we expected far more train and a lot less coach. On the positive side the coach driver (Trent) was exceptional and also kept us entertained with his commentary and jokes. We were however disappointed that on two occasions we were given a short train ride experience and then spent hours on the bus following the train line rather than riding the train. That said the TranzAlpine and other train experiences were in general exceptional.
On the negative side we felt somehow excluded from the rest of the group which significantly detracted from our holiday. On more than one occasion we did not receive the tour communication that all the others in the group did, and we even spoke to the Tour Director (Sharon) and suggested she should make certain that all the group paperwork was received by all the tour participants.
Sharon should really have been more communicative with her commentary also, frequently advising the coach of objects and places well before they were visible and also talking far too much about herself and her own circumstances rather than the more generic explanation. She also abandoned the standard coach seat rotation after the first 2 days leading to the same people seated in the front part of the coach and others in the rear part. Not important except that photo opportunities are much better through the front than the side windows. We also felt that on two occasions Sharon changed the tour itinerary largely to suit her own purposes, resulting in an afternoon free in Dunedin, and much reduced time at Mt. Cook exchanged for over 3 hours walking around Christchurch waiting for our hotel to be ready. These changes were made without consultation and, we suspect, so that Sharon could meet with her contractors and other friends.
Described as 4 star accommodation most of the hotels were of a reasonable to good standard with the notable exception of two. The Rydges Rotorua was abysmal. Our room was really dirty and with furniture that simply did not work. Filthy carpets and broken fittings were also a feature. Old, we can live with, but there is no excuse for dirty! The food was not good either and far from the standard expected. We experienced similar, although not so obvious at Te Anau where the hotel room had cobwebs in the corners and the bed sheets were not clean (hairs in bed- yuk!). Again the breakfast was very poor and the dinner the previous evening was also a big disappointment. We were asked to stagger our mealtimes to allow the chef to better cater so we chose to go a little later, however the food was the same as at the start of service, just now congealed and cold.
I have already conveyed these comments to APT/Travelmarvel and I believe they will take them on board, however it is clear that if you advertise a rail tour it should not be 80% by coach! To leave the entire group to fend for itself in Christchurch on the last afternoon for 2-3 hours is not acceptable. Fortunately it was not raining but there were less able individuals in the group who were less than impressed. Finally to ask for a donation to the coach driver's expenses was not in my view acceptable. We had already decided to have a whip-round for a tip for both of them anyway without a subtly disguised hint!
We will likely tour again with APT/Travelmarvel as they did a good job generally, next time we will be more world wise and careful however.
Our Guide Sharon and Driver Wayne (always had a tall tale to tell) were very good. The coach was always clean, our group was always on time leaving our accommodation, even though we had some older ladies in their 80's. Such a lot to see and do in such a short time. We also had some free time to explore on our own which was good.
Dates & Pricing
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