The Great J o u rney s o f N ew Ze a l a nd
written by Rebecca Forrest / photography by KiwiRail
Discover your own backyard JOURNEY THROUGH AOTEAROA
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rom mountain air to ocean breeze, there’s never been a better time to explore Aotearoa. The Great Journeys of New Zealand are welcoming Kiwis back onboard. All three of its incredible scenic train journeys, Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine, will be returning to the tracks just in time for your spring and summer holidays.
Enjoyed together or individually, these spectacular journeys will help you discover the very best of our backyard.
Northern Explorer
Explore the heart of the North Island with Northern Explorer. Travelling from Auckland to Wellington, with stops at Ohakune and Hamilton, you’ll travel through National Park and experience the highlights of three spectacular volcanic mountains – Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. From viaducts and farmlands to snow-capped mountains and dense beech forests, the extremes and surprises of this spectacular journey are unlike any other. GPS at-seat audio commentary means you can tune in to the stories of our land as you watch the landscapes unfold.
Interislander
This year, Interislander celebrates 58 years of keeping Kiwis connected. Sailing between Wellington and Picton up to 10 times a day, this is considered one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world. Whether you’re packing up the car for the ultimate roadie or making the most of that long weekend, your holiday begins the moment you step aboard. With the kids’ play area, personal cinema headsets, licensed bar and café and the extra-comfortable Plus Lounge, there’s something for everyone. Sit back and enjoy the best way to cross between the North and South Islands.
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Coastal Pacific
Experience breath-taking views of the South Island as you travel on the Coastal Pacific scenic train. Take the opportunity to relax and explore the stunning Kaikōura coastline, famous for its marine mammals and whale watching. This memorable journey stops at Blenheim, home to New Zealand award-winning sauvignon blanc. The Coastal Pacific travels between the garden city of Christchurch and seaside port of Picton, making it the perfect way to connect between Wellington, Blenheim, Kaikōura and Christchurch.
TranzAlpine
Step aboard one the world’s most famous journeys. The TranzAlpine traverses the majestic Canterbury Plains, to the backdrop of the mighty Southern Alps. You’ll enjoy thrilling vistas over deep gorges as you travel alongside the Waimakariri River. The alpine landscape will leave you breathless at every turn as you travel between Christchurch and Greymouth. With a wide selection of food and drink available from its licensed café carriage, why not enjoy a local brew or glass of bubbles as you watch it all go by, in the experience of a lifetime. Each of these journeys offers the best way to experience our landscapes, people, places and culture. It’s time to get out there and explore, while we have it all to ourselves. or the latest information and to book your next holiday, F head to www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz
