The Ultimate Tranz Alpine and Coastal Pacific Train Adventure NEW

Itinerary

DAY ONE                                         D

Departing from Tauranga we fly to Christchurch via Auckland. We will be picked up for a tour of the Rebuild Zone, The Ingenious Cardboard Cathedral and the outer districts of Christchurch taking in the devastation and viewing the emergence of the exciting new city centre. Once we have completed this we will book into our accommodation for the evening Rydges Latimer Hotel here. We'll settle in and regroup a little later for dinner at the on-site Restaurant. 

DAY TWO                                       B, L, D

We are starting with a short journey to the railway station. We depart for the mountain vistas of the Southern Alps on the modernised Tranz Alpine Train. Sit back in luxury and travel through the Torlesse Range, across the Waimakariri River, Arthur’s Pass, Taramakau River, Lake Brunner, Arnold River, and the Grey River and arrive on the West Coast at Greymouth. Train facilities include a café carriage, luxury seating, informative commentary, outdoor viewing carriage and spacious modern toilets. We will be met at the station by our West Coast Guide. Then on to the famous Monteith Brewery for lunch. Recently opened, this is a fantastic place to learn more about the iconic Kiwi Company. After our short Tour and Tasting, we travel up the Grey Valley through Dobson and Wallsend passing the Brunner Mine site. If time allows, we will take a walk across the bridge and explore the buildings and Coke Ovens. Crossing back over the bridge we continue onto our accommodation, the Scenic Hotel Punakaiki, a stunning complex located at Punakaiki Beach and 300 meters from the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Once checked in we will meet in the on-site seaside restaurant “Jacobs Grill”. 

DAY THREE                                    B, D

This morning, we take a short walk around the amazing Pancake Rocks then travel up the spectacular coast road to Tauranga Bay. This road is rated as one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives. At Cape Foul Wind and Tauranga Bay, we will visit the Seal Colony and local Weka hangout and then continue to Westport for lunch. We climb to the summit of the Denniston Plateau, the location of the infamous 1880’s Denniston Mine. The old coal transport road travels high above the dramatic Waimangaroa Gorge. Here we will learn of those that lived and worked in the windswept bleakness of Denniston`s infamous mountain plateau which was the basis for Jenny Patrick’s book Denniston Rose. From here we travel back to Westport and have a guided tour around the award-winning Coal Town Museum, before heading back to our accommodation in Westport and enjoying a lovely dinner.

DAY FOUR                                      B, L, D

As we journey through the stunning Buller River, we're surrounded by the majestic mountain beech forests of the Brunner Range and the Kahurangi National Park. It's a breathtaking sight to behold. Our next stop is Murchison, where we'll pause for morning tea and take in the tranquil scenery. We'll then continue our adventure towards Alpine Lodge, nestled amongst the impressive St Arnaud Range. The views here are simply spectacular, a true feast for the senses. After a delightful lunch, we'll follow the alpine Wairau River through the picturesque Wairau Valley towards our destination for the evening, Blenheim. Here, we'll experience the renowned wine-tasting culture of Marlborough, as we visit Forest Wines, located in the heart of Sauvignon Blanc country. Nestled amongst the vineyards just outside Renwick, the winery and tasting room offer a truly immersive experience. Our next stop, Welton House and Gardens, a piece of paradise on earth. We'll take a stroll through this idyllic oasis, immersing ourselves in the tranquillity and beauty of our surroundings. As the sun begins to set, we'll retire to the Scenic Hotel Marlborough, where we'll dine at the on-site Restaurant and reflect on another brilliant day.

DAY FIVE                                        B, L, D

Today will be filled with adventure and discovery! Our first stop is the Omaka Aviation Centre, where we will explore the rich history of aviation through both World War I and World War II exhibitions. After a private guided tour of the Knights of the Sky exhibition, we will relax and enjoy morning tea at the onsite cafe. Next, we will indulge in some of the finest local cuisine and wine at the must-visit Wither Hills Cellar Door Restaurant in Marlborough, known for its picturesque views and warm atmosphere. This will be a true feast for the senses! Later, we will board the Coastal Pacific Train to Christchurch, marvelling at the breathtaking landscapes. Finally, a shuttle will take us to our accommodation at the Rydges Hotel Christchurch where we can rest and reflect on our lovely day.

DAY SIX                                           B

Starting with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before departing on our final day together. Our first activity is a private chartered tour on the tram of the city, which will take us through the vibrant streets of Christchurch. We'll be picked up at Cathedral Junction and taken on a journey through the city's rich history and culture. Next, we'll have the opportunity to explore the Botanic Gardens and Visitor Centre which features interactive exhibits and educational displays. For those who are hungry, the onsite café offers a great selection of bites. After this, we will visit The Tannery a unique destination that is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike who describe it as “Quirky, eclectic and worth finding” and “Old-time charm meets modern attraction”. With more than 50 boutique shops, restaurants, bars. Take your time to grab a bite to eat or indulge in a little bit of retail therapy. Before flying out this afternoon we'll take our time to have a look around the The Air Force Museum of New Zealand. This is the National Museum for the Royal New Zealand Air Force, we'll enjoy a guided tour of the facility. This evening, we'll have dinner at the airport after checking in for our flight home, reflecting on all the unforgettable experiences we've had during our stay in the South.