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New Zealand is perhaps one of the most beautiful and dramatic places in the whole world. The country is filled with beautiful scenic views and mesmerizing landscapes. This is one of the places where you can find true peace of mind while breathing in the beauty of the place. The best way to explore the natural beauty of New Zealand is through rail journeys. At every turn, you will witness breathtaking views and sceneries that is going to have a relaxing effect on you. Steaming geysers, lush forests, snowy mountains, and bottomless fjords, witness all of it while taking a pleasurable train journey. Travel across the spectacular volcanic landscapes, through the beautiful national parks, over the river valleys, and along the coastlines while witnessing the mighty mountains on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other side. Each of these great train journeys can be completed in just one day.

10 Best Train Journeys In New Zealand

If you want to explore New Zealand in the best way possible, then, there can be no greater way than opting for the train rides. You can travel through the whole country and while enjoying the beautiful views outside your train window. If you are planning your next trip to New Zealand, you need to make sure that you at least take one of the mentioned train journeys. We have listed 10 of the best train journeys in New Zealand that you can take in New Zealand. Here you go with the list.

1. The Marlborough Flyer

The Marlborough Flyer

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Marlborough Flyer is one of the most convenient modes of transportation in New Zealand. The train starts its a journey from Picton at the top of the South Island. For the ones who are planning to explore New Zealand from top to bottom, this train can be the ideal option for them. You can have a cruise like comfort while traveling by this train. The train is known to use historic carriages to reach Blenheim where you can enjoy the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre and the mouth-watering wine tours. This train travel in New Zealand is totally worth it if you are to explore the true beauty of New Zealand.

Location: Picton Railway Station, Picton, 7220, New Zealand
Timings: 2-3 hours
Price: Rs 5648.42

Must Read: 15 Adventurous Spots For Camping In New Zealand On Your Next Trip In 2022!


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2. TranzAlpine

TranzAlpine

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If you are travel from east to west, then this is perhaps the most logical option that you can go for. The train links the Christchurch in the east with Greymouth in the west. You should be informed that the train is going to travel through the Southern Alps. Thus, you can figure out the kind of scenic beauty you are going to witness during your journey. However, the highlight of the journey remains the Waimakariri Gorge. This is a 10-hour return trip and thus, it’s the best option to reach Greymouth in the West for a few days. For the ones who are bothered about sustenance on the trip should be informed that you can avail plenty of buffet car to keep your hunger and thirst at bay.

Location: South Island, New Zealand
Timings: 4 hours 50 minutes
Price: Rs 2588.86

3. Taieri Gorge Railway, Dunedin

Taieri Gorge Railway, Dunedin

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This is the rail journey that you will remember for life. If you are keen about taking photographs then this could be an ideal train journey for you. The train has 20s carriages with open balconies, so if you want to take photos, you can do it unobstructed. Witness the beautiful landscapes while traveling and get mesmerized by the scenic beauty of the place. The train also serves you with a buffet car and a shop on board. The train is known to travel through some of the most spectacular countries. The northern end of the rail train is described as one of the most famous long-distance cycle routes of New Zealand.

Location: 22 Anzac Ave, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand
Timings: 3 hours
Price: Rs 4942.37

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4. Northern Explorer

Northern Explorer

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This is perhaps the most comfortable and modern train journey that you can go for in New Zealand. The carriages of the train come with an advanced air bag suspension system which is designed for smoother and quieter travel. The train is equipped with a non-reflective, un-tinted panoramic roof and side windows through which you can enjoy the spectacular views of the mountains and the coastlines of the Northern Island. The train has full modern features like GPS triggered journey commentary, information displays, central heating and air conditioning system to ensure the comfort of the travelers. It can be said that the train journey is one of the best and the most comfortable one that you can experience. It is guaranteed that you will not get disappointed by this 10-hour ride between Auckland and Wellington.

Location: Wellington Railway Station, Bunny Street, Wellington, New Zealand
Timings: 3 hours
Price: Rs 5295.39

5. The Coastal Pacific

The Coastal Pacific

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This particular train is known to run between the port of Picton and Kaikoura. If you think that life on rails is the option for you then you can simply board this train and have the best travel experience of your life. You will travel through the wine growing region of Blenheim and through the rugged mountain ranges of Kaikoura on one side. On the other side, you can see the view of the Pacific Ocean coastline. You will also get to see some of the finest farmland and horticulture areas of the Canterbury Plains.

Location: Addington Railway Station, Troup Drive, Christchurch, New Zealand
Timing: 3 hours
Price: Rs 3589.10

Suggested Read: Top Five Airports In New Zealand For A Memorable NZ Beginning

6. Driving Creek Railway

Driving Creek Railway

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Situated in the Coromandel, this rail ride is going to give you a thrilling experience of the history of the area. The train will take you through the kauri forest and native bush ending. On your way, you can witness the beautiful view of the Hauraki Gulf and the islands surrounding it. You will also get to see some fine outdoor art lining and pottery sculptures on the tracks as you move ahead. This is one of the best train travel in New Zealand south island.

Location: 380 Driving Creek RD, Coromandel 3506, New Zealand
Timing: 1 to 2 hours
Price: Rs 20,710.86

7. The Oamaru Seasider

The Oamaru Seasider

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This train ride is going to provide you with the breath-taking views of the Otago coastline. On your way, you will get to witness the mesmerizing Blueskin Bay and the surrounding beaches, inlets, and hills. The train also gives a halt in Moeraki, before I travel through the coastal farmland.

Location: Anzac Square, Dunedin, New Zealand
Timing: 90 minutes
Price: Rs 2,965.40

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8. The Capital Connection

The Capital Connection

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This is a long distance train ride that connects Palmerston North and Wellington on the North Island Main Trunk. The rail service was started in 1991 and is operated by Kiwirail. The train comes with luxury onboard service and thus, you can enjoy a pleasurable ride while viewing the scenic views outside your window. This journey of 2 hours is worth the experience.

Location: Palmerston North
Timing: 2 hours

9. TranzCoastal

TranzCoastal

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This is also a long distance train journey that covers the area between Picton and Christchurch. The train is operated by the Great Journeys of New Zealand. This is the first train that is known to use AK class carriages. If you want to witness the beautiful views of the mountains and the ocean on either side of the trail then this could be the option for you. this is one of the best train journeys in south island New Zealand.

Location: Picton, New Zealand
Timing: 5 hours, 13 minutes

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10. Wairarapa Connection

Wairarapa Connection

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This train links the Masterton and Wellington. This diesel-hauled carriage service is one of the best train journeys that you can take in New Zealand. If you are planning for a train trip to New Zealand then this is one of the options that you can add in your list.

Location: Masterton, New Zealand
Timing: 1 hour 40 minutes

Further Read: New Year Parties In New Zealand 2022: Explore The Nightlife Of The Country!

So these are the 10 of the best train journeys in New Zealand. These train rides are the perfect way to explore the beauty of New Zealand. So, plan a trip to New Zealand right away and enjoy these train rides!


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Category: Adventure, New Zealand

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