This has to be one of the most beautiful train trips in the world. Snaking your way from Picton to Christchurch via the coast is in part breathtaking. For a good portion of the trip there is nothing between you (train) and the sandy beach! Checkin at the station from the ferry was seamless and efficient and boarding was equally... More

We arrived in Christchurch and did not want to immediately drive on the left hand side of the road until we had our NZ legs under us. We took the train the next morning amongst the gorgeous mountain ranges and coastal scenery in a very relaxing train ride. Go to the open air car for many great photo ops. We... More

The train was very comfortable and the views were fantastic especially as the weather was so sunny. A tip if you are booking online from overseas: it is half the price if you phone NZ and book it directly as their computer recognizes overseas ISP addresses and only gives overseas people the most expensive price. We booked two tickets for... More

I booked this journey at the tourist Information centre in Christchurch the day before and got a one way ticket for $99. I used the free shuttle from my hostel to the train station which was efficient and the checking in process at the station was quick and easy. The seats are comfortable and there is various commentary during the... More

We had a lovely relaxing ride from Blenheim down the east coast of the South Island to Christchurch - would recommend a one way trip only unless you were spending a few days in Picton or Blenheim surrounds as part of your stay. The trains are clean, comfortable, with great visibility outside and a decent cafe where you can buy... More

If you have time, I highly recommend taking the train. You pass through such beautiful scenery and you are quite comfortable. If you are lucky you may spot some whales passing through Kaikoura - we were not lucky. We did spot a lot of seals though. We purchased a KiwiRail 7 day pass, so we took the ferry from Wellington... More

Our trip to see the Albatross out of Kaikoura included the magnificent scenic drive from Picton to Kaikoura. For this part of our trip we hired a car. We had the car for 3 days, after which we returned it and continued our time in New Zealand exploring using public transport only. New Zealand has 3 scenic train routes. One... More

Just took the Coastal Pacific Journey between Christchurch and Picton.. The views specially around Kaikoura Coast and Marlborough were unforgettable.. We were lucky to see a Pod with over a 100 Dusky Dolphins swimming along the coast before we get to Kaikoura..

So glad we chose this over flying. Beautiful country, saw many seals, farms, tunnels and our course sheep. We had been in the north of NZ and took the Ferry across and our baggage was transferred right to the train. So easy.