Transport > New Zealand & Pacific Islands > New Zealand > Train travel
Train travel in New Zealand
The Tranz Scenic (tel 0800 872 467 (0800 TRAINS)) rail network connects Christchurch to Picton and Greymouth and Auckland with Wellington. In the North Island, Tranz Scenic trains are limited to the Overlander connecting Auckland and Wellington and the Capital Connection that runs between Wellington and Palmerston North. Rail services in the South Island include the TranzCoastal that runs between Picton and Christchurch and the scenic TranzAlpine that runs over Arthurs Pass between Christchurch and Greymouth.
Many people don’t consider the train because it runs infrequently and doesn’t go to the big tourist destinations like Queenstown or the Bay of Islands, but it is still worth considering for the odd journey, as it is far more comfortable than the coach. The TranzAlpine service between Christchurch and Greymouth is considered one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys and many people make this journey for the spectacular train trip.
In addition to trains operated by Tranz Scenic, there are some small tourist-oriented rail services, the most useful of which is the Taieri Gorge Railway (tel (03) 477 4449) that runs from Dunedin to Middlemarch along the spectacular Taieri River Gorge with coach connections to Queenstown.
The New Zealand Travelpass includes train travel and the Scenic Rail Pass is worth considering if you plan on travelling on all the Tranz Scenic train lines.
Scenic Rail Pass
The Scenic Rail Pass gives you seven days unlimited travel on Tranz Scenic trains.
| Pass | Price |
|---|---|
South Island |
$265 |
South Island with ferry |
$299 |
All services |
$309 |
All services with ferry |
$359 |
