Classic | Coastal Highlights Tour

Coastal Pacific Train to Kaikōura  

Your first train journey departs Christchurch on route to Kaikōura. Enjoy breakfast on board as the smell of aromatic coffee dances through the carriages. In a few short hours, you will step foot into marine wildlife paradise.

Kaikōura has a range of exciting activities to choose from. Will you seek the whale watching, albatross, or dolphin encounter, or simply peruse the local artisan and gift shops? The rest of the day is yours to explore.   

Coastal Pacific Train to Marlborough  

After breakfast, your Tour Director will guide you back to the Kaikōura Railway Station to board the Coastal Pacific train for the next leg of your journey. 

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!  

This afternoon you'll arrive into your final South Island destination. Soak up the views and maybe even join a wine tour to enjoy 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 say good-bye to the South Island as you sail towards the capital. Crossing Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry, the South Island shores will slowly disappear as you enjoy a hearty seafaring lunch onboard.  

Spoiled with harbour views, admire the coastal paradise as you glide through the scenic Queen Charlotte Sound and arrive into Wellington. Step off the Interislander Ferry and start your North Island adventure by exploring Wellington city.

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 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. 

A farewell dinner awaits as you join your fellow travelers once again to tell them about the exciting places you have discovered.

Departing Wellington

Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast at your hotel. 

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