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New Zealand Rail Journeys

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19 Days Auckland to Christchurch

Operator: Grand Pacific Tours

15 Days Auckland to Christchurch

Operator: Travelmarvel

7 Days Christchurch to Queenstown

Operator: Great Journeys New Zealand

Discover Must Do Experiences and Highlights

The Glenbrook Vintage Railway

The Glenbrook Vintage Railway is a short trip from Auckland and offers passengers a nostalgic rail experience. Enjoy a ride on the beautifully restored steam train as you take in the picturesque countryside of the North Island.

The Northern Explorer Train

Board the Northern Explorer Scenic Train and cross the Central Plateau of Tongariro National Park with its three volcanic cones. From icy streams to coastal cliffs, sit back and soak up the breathtaking landscapes between Auckland and Wellington.

The Coastal Pacific Train

The Coastal Pacific offers a captivating rail journey between Picton and Christchurch. Witness the breathtaking beauty of Kaikoura's mountain ranges, and the Pacific's serene coastline. Keep a close watch for breaching whales and sunbaking seals.

Tranz Alpine Rail Journey

Traverse the Southern Alps aboard the Tranz Alpine! The carriage's domed windows offer panoramic vistas of the Canterbury Plains with its intricately braided rivers. Or, step onto the open-air carriage in chilly Arthur's Pass before descending to the lush West Coast at Greymouth.

Arthur's Pass National Park

With shingle-filled riverbeds and lush beech forests to the east and deep gorges and dense rainforests to the west, Arthur's Pass National Park serves as an iconic gateway between the east and west coasts of the South Island.

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These New Train Tours Might Be the Most Stunning Way to See New Zealand

Expect panoramic views of lush forests, sparkling coastlines, rolling hills, small towns, and big cities.

Laura Beausire is a Colorado-based writer with three decades of experience covering travel, art, design, and outdoor adventure. She has a master’s degree in art history and a background working in galleries and teaching design history. When she’s not on a hiking trail, Laura contributes to Wine Enthusiast, Food & Wine, Condé Nast Traveler, Shondaland, Hemispheres, Fodor’s, Mountain Living, and many other publications.

Picasa/Courtesy of Great Journeys New Zealand

The wonders of New Zealand require a visitor’s full attention, so why not give your eyes a treat and roll through the country on a scenic train ride ? Great Journeys New Zealand offers a brand-new collection of multiday, guided rail tours that sweep across spectacular landscapes on both North and South islands .

The just-launched rail adventures take three existing train lines and mix them with a fresh crop of guided tour itineraries — ranging from six to 17 days — leading guests on a variety of off-rail excursions in search of Kiwi experiences. The Northern Explorer train starts in Auckland and runs just over 400 miles south to New Zealand’s capital city of Wellington. Along the way, tours bring guests to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and into Tongariro National Park, where they’ll see towering Mount Ruapehu. After crossing the 58-mile Cook Strait aboard the Interislander ferry, travelers can transfer to the Coastal Pacific train at Picton. The route passes through Blenheim’s vineyards and hugs Kaikōura's coast (renowned for whale sightings) on the way to Christchurch. Finally, the TranzAlpine train traverses the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps between Christchurch and Greymouth. Private coach or shuttle tours can whisk passengers to nearby destinations, including Queenstown and Milford Sound.

Heyworth R&F/Courtesy of Great Journeys New Zealand

“Great Journeys New Zealand takes travelers through some of the country's most stunning and diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and lush forests to rugged coastlines and sparkling oceans,” says Mark Hockley, senior tour manager and partnership specialist at Great Journeys New Zealand. “The scenic routes provide panoramic views that can't be found by road, and the relaxed and comfortable train ride allows travelers to sit back, relax, and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of New Zealand .”

Tour guides provide local insights and personal introductions. “There’s a story at every stop, from tales about Kiwiana culture to facts about New Zealand's curious birds, the history of Māori culture, geology in volcanic regions, rock formations, orientation of cities and locations in New Zealand, and so much more,” Hockley says. An audio commentary system, triggered by GPS, offers additional facts and historical background as the train chugs along. “The views really are breathtaking — from the volcanic peaks of Middle Earth in Ruapehu to sighting the mystical Blue Lake in the northern reaches of New Zealand's Southern Alps — but we also visit local stores and meet sheep farmers and winemakers, and hear their stories along the way,” he says.

“Māori storytelling and legends are woven into every guide's narrative throughout all trips — it's an important part of the New Zealand experience,” says Hockley. “We offer unique cultural experiences on many of our tours, ranging from visiting a Māori village to tasting Māori food, learning about Māori arts and crafts, and more.”

Courtesy of Great Journeys New Zealand

Scenic Class carriages are open and airy, thanks to panoramic windows and skylights, with spacious seating and airbag suspension for a comfy ride. Open carriages are also available — perfect for fresh-air viewing and photography. When you’re hungry, the onboard Scenic Cafe offers New Zealand wine and beer selections, along with dishes showcasing local ingredients, from roasted free-range chicken with Manuka honey to High Country lamb to South Island hot-smoked salmon salad. Starting April 14, Great Journeys will add Scenic Plus service , with a new, custom-built carriage plus a dedicated chef.

Tours are offered on specific dates from January through early May, and travelers can choose between Classic (six to 15 days, with a maximum group size of 35) or Signature (six to 17 days, with a maximum group size of 20). 

Train travel

TranzAlpine Journey | Christchurch - Greymouth - Christchurch, New Zealand

By Great Journeys of NZ

Tranz Alpine journey, Christchurch - Canterbury

TranzAlpine Cass bank from Long Hill, Christchurch - Canterbury

By KiwiRail

Couple aboard the Coastal Pacific, New Zealand

Get a front row seat for spectacular scenery when you travel by train in New Zealand.

Take a one way train trip or sit back and relax with a return journey. It’s the simplest way to experience New Zealand’s rich diversity and breathtaking beauty.

Rail travel takes you deeper into New Zealand’s landscapes and shows you all sorts of scenic wonders that often aren’t visible from the road.    

There are three main  scenic rail journeys  in New Zealand, traversing the North and South Islands.   

Some rail services also connect the regions, and there are suburban trains within Wellington and Auckland.   

The great train journeys of New Zealand

Popular scenic train trips in new zealand.

The Great Journeys are the three scenic rail trips across New Zealand:  

• The Northern Explorer – a day-long trip between Auckland and Wellington  
• The Coastal Pacific – travels the east coast of the South Island between Picton and Christchurch  
• The TranzAlpine – an internationally-renowned train trip that crosses the Southern Alps on its journey between Christchurch and Greymouth.   

Travel in luxury on all three train journeys with spacious carriages that offer comfortable seating and large panoramic windows for expansive scenic views.   

There is also an Open-Air Viewing Carriage where you can step outside to get closer to nature.   

A Scenic Café car serves meals, drinks and snacks to savour with the scenery.  

Book overnight stops in advance and spend time exploring the towns and settlements along the way.    

Northern Explorer  

The Northern Explorer is a 12-hour train trip between New Zealand’s biggest city, Auckland, and its capital, Wellington, in the North Island.   

The 648km trip takes you through the volcanic heart of the North Island into the dual UNESCO World Heritage site of Tongariro National Park, which is home to three volcanic peaks: Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. In winter, this area transforms into a snowy wonderland, while in summer months it is a rocky, otherworldly landscape.   

You’ll experience the famous Raurimu Spiral, a single-track railway spiral described as “an engineering masterpiece” and towering viaducts. You’ll see cliffs clad in lush native bush, and travel through rolling rural farmland.  

Coastal Pacific   

This picturesque six-hour journey travels the east coast of the South Island between Picton in the north and Christchurch in the south.   

It offers incredible views of the Kaikōura Ranges on one side and the swells of the Pacific Ocean on the other.   

You’ll travel through New Zealand’s biggest and most famous wine region of Marlborough, pass the salt fields of Lake Grassmere (where the waters turn pink in the summer heat) and on to the coastal settlement of Kaikōura – famous for its seafood and whale watching.   

Look out for the sperm whales that visit Kaikōura year-round, or spot orca over summer and humpback whales in our winter months of June and July. Keep a watch for seals and penguins along the rocky coastline too.   

Your journey also takes you across the patchwork of the Canterbury Plains, criss-crossed by vast braided rivers. In total, the Coastal Pacific carries you through 22 tunnels and across 175 bridges.    

TranzAlpine  

The TranzAlpine is regarded as one of the world’s greatest train trips, as it travels coast to coast across the South Island’s stunning Southern Alps.   

The five-hour journey runs between the city of Christchurch in the east, to the river town of Greymouth on the rugged West Coast.   

Highlights include an ascent into the Southern Alps, travelling through stunning Arthur’s Pass National Park and the Otira tunnel.  

You’ll traverse breath-taking bridges and viaducts, and see snow-capped mountains, lakes, braided rivers, and the diverse forest landscapes and steep gorges of Arthur’s Pass.  

The 223.8-kilometre journey includes 19 tunnels and four viaducts.    

Train travel packages  in New Zealand

See a new side of New Zealand with scenic rail short breaks and packages (opens in new window) . These train trips depart from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch and range from two to five days.   

Explore cities or discover the beautiful scenery and natural wonders of the regions. The packages include t rain travel, accommodation, meals and selected local tours and attractions.   

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Guided New Zealand Train & Coach Tours

Great Journeys New Zealand provides the ultimate guided Train and Coach Journeys. Choose from our fantastic range of world-class tours below or contact one of our local based travel experts to find out what journey would serve you the most enjoyment! Whether you want to cruise on the Northern Explorer and stay in the North Island, see the highlights of the South Island on the TranzAlpine or cross over on the Interislander Ferry to see it all.

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspirational Alps Tour

Duration: 7 days Christchurch to Queenstown

• Hotel 4 star
• Guided Coach & Train Tours

Experience a luxurious 7-day guided experience through lush New Zealand

• Viewed 206 times in the last 7 days

price pp from

twin share/double

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Classic Cities & Coastal Highlights Tour

Duration: 10 days Auckland to Christchurch

• Hotel 3 star

See everything New Zealand has to offer on our 10-day guided tour

• Viewed 162 times in the last 7 days

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Classic New Zealand Highlights Tour

Duration: 15 days Auckland to Queenstown

Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and geology as you travel off the beaten track through New Zealand's regions.

• Viewed 168 times in the last 7 days

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Classic Coastal Highlights Tour

Duration: 6 days Wellington to Christchurch

Experience a taste of New Zealand on our 6-day guided tour

• Viewed 108 times in the last 7 days

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Classic Northern Highlights Tour

Duration: 6 days Auckland to Wellington

Explore New Zealand's North Island on this 6-day guided adventure.

• Viewed 76 times in the last 7 days

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Captivating Coast Tour

Experience a luxurious 6-day guided experience along coastal New Zealand.

• Viewed 170 times in the last 7 days

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspiring North Island Tours

Duration: 8 days Auckland to Wellington

Experience a luxurious 8-day guided experience through the lush North Island of New Zealand.

• Viewed 140 times in the last 7 days

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Spectacular South Tour

Duration: 11 days Wellington to Queenstown

Explore from North to South on this great New Zealand 11-day guided adventure.

• Viewed 184 times in the last 7 days

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Classic Southern Highlights Tour

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Cities & Seas Tour

Duration: 12 days Auckland to Christchurch

Experience a luxurious 12-day guided scenic experience through the North Island

• Viewed 163 times in the last 7 days

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature New Zealand Up Close Tour

Duration: 17 days Auckland to Queenstown

Experience a luxurious 17-day guided experience through lush New Zealand.

• Viewed 179 times in the last 7 days

Nearly all our guests customise our tour ideas. That's what we do! Our expert team of New Zealand specialists can design a holiday itinerary to suit you perfectly. A tailor made package can be created for you in no time and doesn't cost you any more than one of our 'off the shelf' ideas. So get in touch with the team today to start your plans.

© Copyright 2024 Discover New Zealand | [email protected]

Great Journeys NZ

Our scenic train journeys have been named among the top train experiences in the world.

Through the connected rail network of Great Journeys New Zealand , passengers are able to travel from Auckland in the North through to Greymouth on the West Coast of the South Island, experiencing New Zealand’s famous coastlines and mountains along the way.

KiwiRail’s tourism services help drive New Zealand’s regional growth, bringing thousands of tourists each year to cities such as Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, and to regions including Waikato, Ruapehu, Manawatu, Marlborough, Kaikōura and the West Coast.

A sustainable option

Not only are our journeys spectacular, they are a sustainable option for experiencing the beauty of Aotearoa with fewer carbon emissions than road travel, enhancing the safety and beauty of the country. We are proud to have signed up to the New Zealand Tourism Sustainability Commitment. Learn more about KiwiRail’s sustainability goals .

To book tickets, visit Great Journeys New Zealand . 

Great Journeys New Zealand include:

Northern explorer.

New Zealand's longest running passenger service, Northern Explorer travels between Auckland and Wellington, stopping at Palmerston North, Ohakune, National Park and Hamilton. Highlights include the journey through the Tongariro National Park, with its three spectacular volcanic mountains, and the famous Raurimu Spiral.

Coastal Pacific

Our Coastal Pacific train operates seven days a week over summer, until 5 May 2024 from Christchurch to Picton and returns to a four day schedule in September 2024 during summer. With the sea stretching to the horizon in the east and the Kaikōura mountains stretching to the sky in the west, Coastal Pacific is one of the most beautiful journeys in New Zealand.

TranzAlpine

TranzAlpine runs return services 7 days a week between Christchurch and Greymouth during summer and operates 4 days a week over the winter period. It has been named among the world’s top train journeys and covers 223km (139 miles) one-way, taking just under five hours. Passengers experience the majestic Canterbury Plains and mighty Southern Alps on their journey to the beautiful West Coast.

KiwiRail is one of New Zealand’s largest employers with proud KiwiRail staff operating in more than 50 towns and cities across the country.

AWW Media [US]

14 Scenic Rail Tours You Must Experience in Your Lifetime

Posted: April 27, 2024 | Last updated: April 27, 2024

All aboard these scenic rail tours of the world’s most diverse and striking landscapes.

Railroads are a nostalgic travel method offering unique perspectives on epic worldwide destinations. From cross-country voyages to one-day excursions, train tours are an efficient and memorable way to explore new locales. 

Embark on the journey of a lifetime with these picture-perfect train routes around the world. 

Glacier Express, Switzerland

The Glacier Express route is as pretty as a postcard. This Swiss train travels between the mountain resort towns of Zermatt and St. Moritz . During the 8-hour-long train ride through the Alps, you can admire sweeping vistas and scenic canyons. Glacier Express is a spectacular European adventure at any time of year.

The train has seats and tables where you can enjoy food and drinks. Glacier Express is renowned for its culinary offerings. You can choose a single dish or a four-course feast, depending on your budget. 

Rovos Rail, Africa

Rovos Rail is a luxurious train that takes passengers through some of Africa’s most stunning landscapes. The railway offers African safaris ranging from two to 15 days in length. On your Rovos Rail getaway, you’ll have the chance to explore waterfalls, deserts, and mountains.

Each Rovos Rail train features top-tier accommodations, dining cars, balconies, and lounges. Meals on board incorporate fresh, local flavors, and passengers can sample a curated selection of South African wines. Everything about the Rovos Rail experience is spectacular. 

Palace on Wheels, India

Enjoy unforgettable sightseeing during your Palace on Wheels excursion. The Palace on Wheels is an 8-day trip to famous places in India , such as Ranthambore National Park and the Taj Mahal.

Along the way, you’ll participate in exciting activities like safaris and boat rides. The scenic views are unmatched, and the train’s interior provides upscale comfort. Passengers can use the train’s gym and spa and dine at two delicious onboard restaurants. 

Royal Scotsman, Scotland

You’ll feel like royalty on the Royal Scotsman . This railroad gives passengers an intimate tour of the Scottish Highlands. Whether you opt for a two- or seven-night journey, the train explores some of Scotland’s most beautiful rugged scenery.

Guests are transported back in time aboard the Royal Scotsman, which combines rustic charm with modern convenience. While admiring the pristine mountains and lakes, indulge in the train’s exceptional amenities, like live entertainment and spa services. This world-class rail tour is a must during your next trip to Scotland .

The Ghan, Australia

The Ghan is a classic addition to any Australia itinerary . It offers multi-day trips through the country’s remote interior. Tourists seeking an epic vacation can spend up to four days traveling through the vast wilderness between Adelaide and Darwin. 

Routes along The Ghan railway showcase Australia’s dramatic terrain. Various off-train activities allow passengers to tour landmarks and natural attractions. However long you spend on The Ghan, prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. 

Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe

The Golden Eagle Danube Express provides unforgettable journeys through Europe. This luxury railroad lets passengers discover world-famous destinations like Venice, Istanbul, and Zurich. You’ll create lifelong memories during the Golden Eagle’s extended European tours.

The Danube Express has everything you need for a relaxing getaway. Its cozy accommodations will keep you well-rested while exploring iconic European cities . Dine on expertly crafted meals and unwind with a drink while admiring the countryside.

Flåm Railway, Norway

Embark on a Nordic adventure with Norway’s legendary Flåm Railway . The Flåm is a top tourist attraction to experience the picturesque Norwegian countryside. It begins at sea level and ascends into the mountains on a one-hour ride.

Along the Flåm route, you’ll see lush valleys and towering waterfalls. The train passes through 20 tunnels and several charming towns. Views from the Flåm Railway are breathtaking regardless of the time of year you ride.

Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Sightsee the majestic Rocky Mountains without compromising comfort on the Rocky Mountaineer . There are three Canadian routes from Vancouver to Jasper or Banff. Each boasts striking views of Canada’s coastal and mountainous regions. 

Your time on the Rocky Mountaineer will consist of unparalleled scenery and outstanding hospitality. Onboard meals are inspired by local specialties and made with high-quality ingredients. The train also makes nightly stops so guests can rest in a hotel rather than a cramped train car. 

Tren a Las Nubes, Argentina

Tren a Las Nubes , or Train to the Clouds, earned its title for being one of the world’s tallest railroads. This Argentinian train towers almost 14,000 feet into the air. It gives tourists a unique perspective of the Andes Mountains during the three-hour ride.

Riding Tren a Las Nubes is an excellent day trip from Salta for those interested in local history. The route passes through the La Puna region, an expansive area of salt flats. Guides will educate guests about La Puna’s significance and cultural heritage.  

Grand Canyon Railway, US

A scenic rail tour is one of the best ways to experience Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Canyon Railway has been carrying guests through the desert landscape for over 100 years. Relive the Old West with the train’s cowboy-themed entertainment and decor.

The Grand Canyon Railway is the ideal day trip since the route is less than nine hours. With vintage rail cars offering six classes of service, the railway can accommodate all travel budgets. Your whole family will be in awe of the unique Grand Canyon views from the train.

TranzAlpine Train, New Zealand

Prepare for a legendary ride aboard the TranzAlpine Train . This New Zealand railway travels coast-to-coast between Christchurch and Greymouth, offering a beautiful opportunity to see the mountains and coastlines of the South Island. 

The TranzAlpine Train is a one-day ride featuring some of New Zealand’s most impressive scenery. Passengers will see valleys, rivers, plains, and gorges along the Great Divide route. Enhance your rail tour by sampling regional cuisine and snapping pictures from the train’s open-air car.

Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia

The Eastern & Oriental Express is an enchanting voyage through Southeast Asia. Begin your trip in Singapore before traversing picturesque areas of Malaysia. There are several journeys to choose from, depending on whether you crave a laid-back or thrilling vacation.

Opt for the Essence of Malaysia tour to taste the tropical island life. The Wild Malaysia package, meanwhile, explores the untamed Taman Negara National Park. Regardless of which Eastern & Oriental Express trip you take, you’ll leave with many fun stories. 

Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan

Japan’s Seven Stars in Kyushu is a deluxe passenger train with multi-day excursions. For over 100 years, Seven Stars has been introducing guests to Kyushu’s natural beauty. You can spend two to four days touring the island, providing an unparalleled cultural experience. 

Expect elegance and sophistication while riding Seven Stars in Kyushu. The train is beautifully designed and showcases work by local artisans. Seven Stars guarantees a memorable trip, from the intricate interior to the stunning outdoor environment.

Andean Explorer, Peru

Consider booking a ride on the Andean Explorer during your next trip to Peru. The Andean Explorer is a luxurious South American train highlighting spectacular Peruvian sights like Cusco and Lake Titicaca.

Each journey aboard the Andean Explorer promises an unbelievable adventure. Travel through the breathtaking Andes Mountains and create priceless memories. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit historically significant sites and charming Peruvian towns.

Lookalike destinations are the key to saving money on travel

Are you dreaming of a luxurious getaway but don’t have a big travel budget? Cheap lookalikes for premier vacation spots help you save without compromising your vacation experience.

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When visiting a new destination, many travelers hope to gain a deeper appreciation for the local history and culture. UNESCO World Heritage Sites are an excellent addition to any travel bucket list.

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Rail Holiday Specialists

Explore tours, experience nz or australia by rail, rail adventures, welcome to loco journeys.

Now that you have found us, we’ll let you in on our secret; there is simply no better way to see the world, than to travel by train.

From the fabled TranzAlpine, The Ghan or the expeditious Indian Pacific, LOCO can build you an amazing rail touring experience based on great rail journeys across New Zealand and Australia.  LOCO Journeys offers a full travel service from rail trip reservations to curating multi-day itineraries including flights, accommodation, car-hire and activities. Experience our adventurous journeys by rail. #liveloco

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Do you want to experience New Zealand rail tours in the best possible way? Sign-up for LOCO Journeys New Zealand rail brochure here and find out how.

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our favourite NEw ZEALAND RAIL Journey

Tranzalpine winter wonderland, new zealand’s best winter rail tour.

Departing:  Christchurch – Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday 7 Days   | NZ$1,399 per person

Winter is a magical time to experience the South Island, and there is something romantic and dreamy about the TranzAlpine Winter Wonderland rail journey set against a backdrop of snow.

Featured Tours

3 great journeys by loco journeys.

If your ambition is to travel on each of NZ’s scenic trains, our Three Great Journeys will achieve your dream. A fully flexible independent tour, it will match your time, budget and expectations.

NZ Rail Adventure

Enjoy a taste of each of New Zealand’s scenic rail experiences on this NZ rail adventure, including a distinctive ride on the Glenbrook Vintage Steam Railway.

Southern Alps in Winter Glory

Traversing the Alps bedecked in its winter cloak delivers a very special magic. This trip offers the opportunity to experience it two-fold, once by road and again by TranzAlpine train.

Destinations

NEW ZEALAND

There are relatively few journeys available but wow, they deliver some truly spectacular travel experiences, taking you to the destinations you want to see with some stunning vistas along the way.

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NORTH ISLAND, NZ

Explore the North Island’s beautiful vistas. Find popular train services such as the Northern Explorer or visit some of the most popular vineyards around Wellington with our Martinborough Getaway by Train...

SOUTH ISLAND, NZ

Discover the South Island of New Zealand through LOCO’s selection of enticing rail tours and packages. Choose from the famous Tranzalpine, the Coastal Pacific or other great rail tours to meet your specific needs...

Stretching from coast to coast, you can criss-cross overland through the vast interior on some of the most epic rail journeys on offer, reaching all of Australia's iconic destinations.

NZ Rail and Cruise Discovery

Join us on this comprehensive 19 day land, New Zealand rail and cruise journey from Christchurch to Wellington. Discover New Zealand on this wonderful tour.

Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer

Inspired by one of the most iconic adventurers of our time, this is an epic journey by heritage steam train and luxury coach. FREE Wellington Cable Car trip when you book with LOCO Journeys.

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About Loco Journeys

Loco Journeys is proud to present an unrivalled collection of first-rate rail holidays to global destinations, featuring outstanding and world-famous train journeys. Loco guarantees you unforgettable travel experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.

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From our guests

“we are back from our amazing holiday. everything worked like clockwork, no complaints about anything. we loved the ghan, everything about it was amazing... thank you so much for all your planning and organisation, it all worked like a charm.”.

Margaret Read

“I just wanted to say my partner and had a great time away on our trip. I posted some photos on social media and my friends want to do the same trip!”

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“Thank you so much. Your help has been amazing Kylie. Very much appreciated.”

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“Thank you so much for this and your work. I have recommended you to a few people... You were wonderful and helped to make our trip so easy when not on a tour as such.”

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The de-railing of New Zealand

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In the 16 years since it was bought by the government for $690 million, KiwiRail has had several overhauls and turnaround plans worth billions of dollars.

Its ambitions as a successful, profitable operator of tourism, freight and ferries have often been derailed by disasters from earthquakes to cyclones, mine explosions and the collapse of key industries like coal mining.

The latest goal for KiwiRail under the multi-billion dollar 2021 New Zealand Rail Plan was to make its “above rail” business of trains and ferries commercially viable by 2025 and able to fund future investments, but that was contingent on significant ongoing government investment in the network, the “below rail” side of the business.

“It gave KiwiRail certainty for the first time that it would get specific allotments every year for three years and then having a wider 10-year outlook,” BusinessDesk infrastructure editor Oliver Lewis tells The Detail .

But the new Government is taking a different approach to the state-owned enterprise, making it clear that road users would not be cross subsidising rail through the National Land Transport Programme.

“That results in a massive reduction in the possible range of funds that KiwiRail can access in future years. And so there’s a lot of concern from the unions and others, (including) rail users, that this might result in more underutilised lines getting closed down or mothballed,” says Lewis.

Add to that the Finance Minister Nicola Willis’ bombshell decision not to pump another billion dollars into the Interislander mega ferries, sinking the project and leaving a question mark over KiwiRail’s future as a shipping operator.

“I get the impression that Government and officials are asking themselves this very question,” New Zealand Herald ‘s Wellington reporter Georgina Campbell says.

Campbell has been following the dramas of the Interislander for several years and says she felt relief that KiwiRail was pursuing a plan to replace the ageing ferries, especially after the terrifying Kaitaki incident last year when it drifted towards rocks, endangering the lives of hundreds of passengers on board.

“That really scared me and so I always felt that at least there’s a plan to replace these unreliable ships. I feel like I’ve been brought back to that space; I’m nervous. The Government says they’re working on a plan but technically there is no plan B yet,” she says.

Willis will not commit to having replacement ships on the water by 2026, as was the plan for the first mega ferry, but Campbell sees that as a political risk.

“What happens if there is another Kaitaki incident in 2026 and they haven’t got new ships and this time the ship doesn’t narrowly avoid disaster? There are a few things up in the air but in my view I think there needs to be a plan in place and implemented by 2026.”

She says journalists and the public are in an information vacuum over the Government’s plans and the details of its decision not to fund the mega ferries. The “breadcrumbs” of information she has received show that a Ministry of Transport briefing floated the possibility of KiwiRail exiting the ferry service but more should be known about its future by mid-year.

Meanwhile, Oliver Lewis thinks the more likely option for KiwiRail is a retrenchment of the rail network with a focus on the main centres and the golden triangle of Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga. But he’s keen to know more about New Zealand First’s stance on KiwiRail and future funding plans.

“I think there’s a signal from this Government that they don’t share the same enthusiasm as the previous government for investing a lot of money into rail which is slightly ironic because Shane Jones and Winston Peters were ginormous boosters of KiwiRail and secured a lot of funding for it when they were in the previous coalition.

“I’m not sure where their thinking is, why they’ve gone so quiet on rail in recent months.”

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The issue of kiwirail goes far deeper than a change in government. The demise of the rail ferries was not due to a change in government but a refusal to continually pay ever increasing and uncapped large sums of money for proposed and ill-planned port infrastructure (look at the fight over where to site the Wellington terminus). Kiwirail have been “upgrading” the wellington rail network for over 10 years and still there are failures and closures such that catching a train is a gamble. The line was originally built from scratch in half the time. The stations, serviceable for the last 50 years have been replaced at huge expense – but not the reliability of the trains (latest issue is the temperature in summer stopping the trains – come on! the temperature now is no different than in the past, so why was that not factored in when the lines were “upgraded”? The Wairarapa line has issues with a new length of track that is now unsuitable for the rolling stock. You couldn’t make a comedy of Kiwirail – it wouldn’t be believed. If it was a private company, the shareholders would have replaced the board.

Rail has been underfunded for decades.

Which is, to say the least, unfortunate, given the undeniable strategic importance of a electrified rail system (providing urban and inter-regional passenger services as well as freight transport) to the mitigation of and adaption to climate change.

Road transport is privately owned and run. Rail is publicly owned and run. Road transport has issues, just as rail does. We have an ideologically driven government that is funded by private individuals who seek private profit over public services. This is the real issue. Rail is by far over time a better option for transportation of goods and people; but why have the nation benefit when a few private individuals can make heaps? Rail is a massive success all over the world, except in ideologically driven NZ where (simply put) the ideology is private profit good, public benefit bad. That is the issue.

I am scared. For two reasons. It’s a big one.

First, there’s the responsibility that the Government has for ensuring our two islands are integrated and work together. There was a ferry plan in place and it was abruptly cancelled with no Plan B in place. A recipe for disaster. And now Simeon Brown is considering a far more expensive tunnel under Wellington.

Second, the Government has the responsibility for ensuring an effective rail system. They tried to shrug it off by selling rail overseas in the 1980’s. But it wouldn’t go away and their responsibility forced them to pick up the high cost of absent maintenance later. Meanwhile they starve rail of funds and put them all into roads. The cost of roads is huge, far exceeding what’s spent on building construction at all levels.

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