Signature | Captivating Coast Tour

The Coastal Pacific Train to Kaikōura  

An early departure from Christchurch, travel by train through vineyards, rolling hills and along the coastline to Kaikōura in the luxurious Scenic Plus service. Enjoy barista coffee and pastries, followed by a hot breakfast onboard. In a few short hours, you will step foot into marine wildlife paradise.

Enjoy today’s thrill of an up-close encounter with the world's largest-toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale, who reside in Kaikōura’s waters year-round.

Later, spend the afternoon at your leisure. Kaikōura is a beautiful small town with beaches and excellent fish and chips. We stay this evening at the luxurious Sudima Hotel Kaikōura; indulge in the views and amenities as you rest up for tomorrow’s adventures.

The Coastal Pacific Train

After breakfast, your Tour Director will guide you back to the Kaikōura Railway Station to board the Coastal Pacific, again in Scenic Plus, for the next leg of your journey. Delight in a light lunch complemented by beverages, amidst breathtaking vistas.

Relax and let the train glide you across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks at Ōhau Point, and the salt production works at Lake Grassmere.

This afternoon, soak up the views and enjoy the tastings as you sip delicious wine amongst the vines. Listen to passionate wine makers describe the history and processes of these flavorful grapes.

The evening is free for you to explore.

Crossing Cook Strait 

This morning you'll head off to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre near Blenheim which offers a glimpse into New Zealand's role in World Wars I and II, featuring vintage aircraft and exhibits like 'Knights of the Sky' and 'Dangerous Skies,' complete with memorabilia and pilot stories.

After your insightful tour, embark on a journey from the South to North Island via the Interislander Ferry. Enjoy a lunch onboard as you cross Cook Strait, watching the South Island fade into the distance. The ferry offers stunning views through Queen Charlotte Sound and the Wellington Harbour before docking in the capital, where your North Island adventure begins.

Explore Wellington

The perfect day does exist – and it includes exploring Wellington!

Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining a Te Papa Museum Introduction Tour and then head off to explore Cuba Street’s cafes, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary is just around the corner where you can surround yourself by native birdlife and regenerating forest.

You won’t get bored with the plethora of activities on offer. From coffee, culture, historic buildings botanic gardens and more, the list goes on! If you need any suggestions or recommendations, just reach out to your helpful Tour Director or our Travel Centre to pre-book an experience.

Dinner awaits as you join your fellow travellers once again to tell them about the exciting places you have discovered.

Departing Wellington

Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travelers. 

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Not ready to leave Wellington? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.