Coastal Pacific Returns: Discover New Zealand's Spectacular South Island by Rail

Great Journeys New Zealand

New Zealand's Coastal Pacific has returned for the 2026–27 travel season, reconnecting travellers with some of the South Island's most sought-after destinations and experiences.

Following its annual winter break, the iconic Great Journeys New Zealand rail service resumed on 1 September, providing travellers with a scenic way to explore the South Island's east coast between Christchurch, Kaikōura, Blenheim and Picton.

For travellers looking beyond fast-paced sightseeing, the Coastal Pacific offers an opportunity to slow down and appreciate the landscapes, food, wine, wildlife and regional experiences along the way.

A Scenic Journey Along the South Island Coast

The Coastal Pacific journey combines spectacular scenery with comfortable rail travel. Departing Christchurch, the train crosses the Canterbury Plains before travelling alongside the Pacific Ocean and continuing into the Marlborough wine region.

Large panoramic windows provide passengers with constantly changing views, from expansive rural landscapes and rugged coastline to mountains and vineyards.

Rather than simply being a way to travel between destinations, the Coastal Pacific makes the journey itself an important part of the New Zealand holiday experience.

Scenic Plus Adds a Taste of New Zealand

Great Journeys New Zealand

Travellers looking for a more premium experience can choose Scenic Plus, which adds a strong culinary element to the journey.

Seasonal menus feature locally sourced ingredients inspired by the regions along the route, complemented by premium New Zealand beverages. The paddock-to-plate approach provides passengers with a taste of the destinations they are travelling through while enjoying the scenery from their seats.

Scenic Class provides another option, with reserved seating and panoramic views designed to make the most of the spectacular landscape.

Kaikōura, Marlborough and Picton

The Coastal Pacific provides convenient access to several distinctive South Island destinations.

Kaikōura is renowned for its marine wildlife experiences and dramatic coastal and mountain scenery. Blenheim places travellers in the heart of Marlborough wine country, making it an attractive stop for food and wine experiences.

At Picton, the journey can be extended beyond the South Island with a connection to the Interislander ferry service across Cook Strait. The integrated rail-and-sea experience creates opportunities to combine South Island and North Island destinations in a single New Zealand itinerary.

More Than a Train Journey

Great Journeys New Zealand

Great Journeys New Zealand offers travellers ways to build a longer holiday around the Coastal Pacific, including guided rail tours and curated short breaks.

These experiences can combine scenic rail travel with wildlife encounters in Kaikōura, food and wine experiences in Marlborough and visits to other destinations throughout New Zealand.

The return of the Coastal Pacific on 1 September marks the beginning of another season for one of New Zealand's memorable scenic rail journeys. For visitors wanting to explore the South Island at a more relaxed pace, the Coastal Pacific provides a compelling combination of scenery, regional flavours and destination experiences.

Great Journeys New Zealand

Website: https://www.greatjourneysnz.com/
Email: info@greatjourneysnz.com
Phone: +64 4 495 0775
Address: Wellington Railway Station, Bunny Street, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

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