Best Train Journeys Around the World in Auckland, New Zealand
1. Glendhu Station Train Journey
Experience the stunning beauty of Wanaka and Mt. Aspiring National Park on this scenic train ride.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of glaciers, lakes, and mountains.
- Luxurious Experience: Includes gourmet meals and wine tastings.
- Limited Availability: Runs only during specific seasons, so plan ahead.
2. Interislander Ferry and TranzCoastal Train Combo
Travel from Wellington to Picton by ferry and continue your journey by train along the scenic east coast of New Zealand.
- Dual Transport: Combines a ferry ride with a train journey for a unique travel experience.
- Scenic Coastal Views: Offers stunning views of the coastal landscapes and marine life.
- Time Efficiency: Reduces travel time between Wellington and Picton compared to driving.
3. The Northern Explorer
Travel across the North Island of New Zealand from Auckland to Wellington with stunning views.
- Cross-Island Journey: Provides a unique perspective on the North Island's diverse landscapes.
- Luxurious Travel: Offers comfortable seating, delicious meals, and sightseeing stops.
- Long Duration: Takes over 12 hours to complete the journey, so be prepared for a long day of travel.
4. Kaitaia to Hibiscus Coast
Journey through diverse landscapes from the Far North of New Zealand to the Hibiscus Coast near Auckland.
- Cultural Experiences: Stops at historical sites and offers insights into Māori culture.
- Rural Scenery: Passes through rolling hills, farms, and small towns.
- Long Duration: Takes over 9 hours to complete the journey, so be prepared for a long day of travel.
5. Okahukura Rail Trail
Experience a historic rail trail in the beautiful Coromandel region.
- Historic Significance: Travel along an old railway line with remnants of the past.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of forests, streams, and mountains.
- Self-Guided: Can be done at your own pace with multiple stops along the way.
6. Western Explorer Train Journey
Travel from Greymouth to Christchurch through the stunning West Coast of New Zealand.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and glaciers.
- Historic Significance: Travels on a historic railway line with remnants of gold mining past.
- Time Efficiency: Can be done in one day, making it a convenient option for travelers.
7. Twin Coast Discovery Highway Train Journey
Travel from Auckland to Kaikohe and explore the beautiful Bay of Islands.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of beaches, forests, and coastal landscapes.
- Cultural Experiences: Stops at historical sites and offers insights into Māori culture.
- Long Duration: Takes over 10 hours to complete the journey, so be prepared for a long day of travel.
8. Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Rail Cart Tour
Experience the magical glowworm caves and explore the Waitomo region by rail cart.
- Natural Wonder: Visits the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of limestone formations and forests.
- Unique Transportation: Travels by rail cart, a unique mode of transportation.
9. Taieri Gorge Railway
Journey through the beautiful Taieri Gorge in Otago, New Zealand.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Taieri Gorge and rugged landscapes.
- Historic Significance: Travels on a historic railway line with remnants of the past.
- Time Efficiency: Can be done in one day, making it a convenient option for travelers.
10. Milford Sound Scenic Flight and Cruise
Experience the stunning beauty of Milford Sound by air and sea.
- Natural Wonder: Visits the famous Milford Sound fjord.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of waterfalls, mountains, and marine life.
- Time Efficiency: Can be done in a day, making it a convenient option for travelers.
11. TranzAlpine Train Journey
Travel from Christchurch to Greymouth through the stunning Southern Alps.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and glaciers.
- Historic Significance: Travels on a historic railway line with remnants of the past.
- Time Efficiency: Can be done in one day, making it a convenient option for travelers.
12. Kaikoura Coastal Pacific Rail Journey
Travel along the beautiful East Coast of New Zealand from Picton to Christchurch.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of the coast, mountains, and marine life.
- Cultural Experiences: Stops at historical sites and offers insights into Māori culture.
- Time Efficiency: Can be done in one day, making it a convenient option for travelers.
13. The Great Journeys of New Zealand: Coastal Pacific and Northern Explorer
Experience the best train journeys in New Zealand by combining the Coastal Pacific and Northern Explorer trains.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of both the East and West coasts of the North Island.
- Historic Significance: Travels on historic railway lines with remnants of the past.
- Long Duration: Takes multiple days to complete, so be prepared for a longer trip.
14. The Great Journeys of New Zealand: TranzAlpine and Coastal Pacific
Experience the best train journeys in New Zealand by combining the TranzAlpine and Coastal Pacific trains.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of both the Southern Alps and the East coast.
- Historic Significance: Travels on historic railway lines with remnants of the past.
- Long Duration: Takes multiple days to complete, so be prepared for a longer trip.
15. The Great Journeys of New Zealand: Coastal Pacific and Taieri Gorge Railway
Experience the best train journeys in New Zealand by combining the Coastal Pacific and Taieri Gorge Railway.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of both the East coast and the Taieri Gorge.
- Historic Significance: Travels on historic railway lines with remnants of the past.
- Long Duration: Takes multiple days to complete, so be prepared for a longer trip.