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8-Day Epic Rail Journey Through New Zealand

Viewed by 100 travelers

Day 1: Welcome to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Fed

Start your day with the famous Kiwi breakfast at The Fed, known for its delicious eggs benedict and flat whites.
Located in the heart of Auckland, it's a short walk from many downtown hotels.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auckland Sky Tower

Head to the Auckland Sky Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond.
Take the Link Bus to SkyCity; it's approximately a 10-minute ride.
NZD32, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Auckland War Memorial Museum

Delve into New Zealand's rich history and culture at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
A short bus ride or a 30-minute walk from the Sky Tower.
NZD25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Depot Eatery

Indulge in a delicious meal featuring fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients.
Just a short bus ride or walking distance from the museum.
NZD40, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Waiheke Island

Take a ferry to Waiheke Island to explore its beautiful beaches and vineyards.
The ferry terminal is near downtown Auckland.
NZD40 (ferry rides), 3.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Mudbrick Vineyard

Enjoy a lovely dinner at Mudbrick with stunning views over the Hauraki Gulf.
Accessible by a short taxi ride from the ferry terminal on the island.
NZD70, 2 hours

9:00PM

Return to Auckland

Take the ferry back to Auckland to rest for the night.
Ferry return from Waiheke Island.
Included in earlier ferry cost, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Travel to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Tapestry Dining

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local produce to fuel your day ahead.
A short walk from your accommodation.
NZD25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Board Northern Explorer

Catch the Northern Explorer train to Rotorua, known for its stunning views of the North Island’s landscapes.
Board at Auckland Train Station.
NZD110, 12 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Savor delicious contemporary cuisine with a focus on fresh and local ingredients.
Located conveniently in Rotorua city center.
NZD65, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Wellington Adventure

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lido Café

Start your day with delicious pancakes and great coffee in this vibrant café.
Short drive or walk to the café from your hotel.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Te Papa Museum

Visit the national museum of New Zealand and explore its vast exhibits on Maori culture.
Easily reached on foot or via local public transport.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Bresolin

Experience a fabulous lunch with an international twist in a cozy setting.
Located near Te Papa Museum.
NZD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Cable Car to Kelburn Lookout

Take the iconic Wellington Cable Car to enjoy stunning views of the city.
A short walk from the museum to the cable car station.
NZD7, 1 hour

3:00PM

Botanical Gardens Walk

Wander through the beautiful Botanical Gardens, showcasing New Zealand's native flora.
The gardens are located just above the Cable Car station.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Board the Coastal Pacific

Take the scenic Coastal Pacific train to Picton, marveling at the breathtaking views of the coastline.
Catch the train at Wellington Station.
NZD85, 3.5 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at Jolly Roger Restaurant

Enjoy a fresh meal with great views at this local favorite in Picton.
Just a short walk from the Picton train station.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 4: Sailing to Picton

Picton, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Cortado

Start your day with a delightful breakfast featuring local produce and artisan coffee.
Located close to the waterfront.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Marlborough Sounds

Take a scenic boat cruise through the stunning Marlborough Sounds, an area of remarkable beauty.
Board the boat from Picton's marina.
NZD90, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Café

Enjoy a fresh lunch with a focus on sustainable, local ingredients at this laid-back café.
Return to Picton's main street.
NZD35, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Picton's EcoWorld Aquarium

Discover the diverse marine life that inhabits the coastal waters of New Zealand.
Located within a short walk from Le Café.
NZD15, 1 hour

4:00PM

Board the Train to Christchurch

Travel on the Coastal Pacific train from Picton to Christchurch, enjoying coastal views.
Board at the Picton Train Station.
NZD85, 5 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at 5th Street

Indulge in seasonal, local dishes at this stylish restaurant located in Christchurch.
Short taxi ride from Christchurch train station.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Picton

Day 5: Christchurch Exploration

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffeine Laboratory

Enjoy a gourmet coffee and a variety of breakfast options in this trendy café.
Located a short walk from central hotels.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Explore the beautiful gardens and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Avon river.
Easily accessible from downtown Christchurch.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Cardboard Cathedral

Visit this unique architectural marvel that symbolizes the city’s resilience post-earthquake.
Just a short walk from the botanic gardens.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Fiddlesticks Restaurant

Dine on delightful fare with local ingredients in a comforting setting.
Located near the city center.
NZD55, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Canterbury Museum

Discover New Zealand's natural and cultural heritage at this fascinating museum.
Located close to the botanic gardens.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Train to Arthur's Pass

All aboard the TranzAlpine train for a remarkable journey to Arthur's Pass, renowned for its scenery.
Departure from Christchurch train station.
NZD150, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Wobbly Kea

Enjoy hearty pub-style meals in a cozy setting surrounded by nature.
Situated within walking distance of the train station.
NZD40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 6: Nature at Arthur's Pass

Arthur's Pass, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a simple hotel breakfast before a day of adventure.
Breakfast served on-site.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hike Arthur's Pass National Park

Embark on a stunning hike through the breathtaking landscapes of this national park.
Trailheads are nearby; check maps at your hotel.
Free, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Bealey Restaurant

Relish local comfort food in a warm, welcoming atmosphere after your hike.
Located near the entrance of the national park.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Arthur's Pass Visitor Centre

Learn more about the park's ecosystem and wildlife at the visitor center.
Located a short walk from The Bealey.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Train to Greymouth

Catch the TranzAlpine back to Greymouth, taking in the last views of the mountains.
Departs from the Greymouth train station.
NZD60, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Press Cafe

Enjoy a casual meal with local beers and wines to finish the day.
About a 10-minute walk from the train station.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Arthur's Pass

Day 7: Greymouth Adventure

Greymouth, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aloha Ocean View Motel

Start your day with hearty breakfast options at your able accommodation.
Served at the motel.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the West Coast Wilderness Trail

Cycle or walk along this scenic trail that showcases the region's stunning landscapes.
Bike rentals are available nearby.
NZD30 (bike rental), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Naked Possum

Enjoy a hearty lunch with lots of options including vegetarian and local meats.
Located just outside the city center.
NZD45, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Shantytown Heritage Park

Experience New Zealand's gold rush history at this recreated town with various activities.
A short drive or taxi from Greymouth.
NZD35, 2 hours

4:30PM

Departure for Queenstown

Take a shuttle to Queenstown, ready for the next adventure ahead.
Shuttles depart from multiple locations in Greymouth.
NZD65, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Vudu Café & Larder

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring seasonal dishes; a local favorite in Queenstown.
Located just off the main square of Queenstown.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Greymouth

Day 8: Queenstown Exploration

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Story Café

Start your last day with a lovely breakfast overlooking Lake Wakatipu.
Located on Beach Street near the lakefront.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Take a Scenic Cruise on Lake Wakatipu

Experience the stunning beauty of Queenstown by embarking on a scenic boat cruise.
Board from the Jetties at the lakefront.
NZD55, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Skyline Gondola

Ride the gondola to Bob's Peak for panoramic views and an optional luge ride.
Easily accessible by walking from the city center.
NZD45, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Skyline Restaurant

Dine on a delicious buffet lunch while taking in magnificent views.
Located at the summit of the gondola.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens and enjoy the serenity.
A 15-minute walk from the Skyline.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Optional Adrenaline Activity

Choose an adventure activity like bungee jumping, jet boating, or skydiving for an unforgettable experience.
Book an experience close to the gardens.
NZD200+, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Rātā

Conclude your trip with a fine dining experience at this renowned Queenstown restaurant.
Located in the heart of Queenstown.
NZD110, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown
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