Top of the South Tour

's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making our TranzAlpine scenic train journey the perfect way to explore coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand’s South Island. Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique TranzAlpine scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses! Feast your eyes on epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer all from the comfort of your luxurious seat, a hosted dining experience like no other. Quite simply, we have done everything we can to ensure you feel at peace as you sink back in your seat and soak up the scenery.

Māwhera Pā in Greymouth is the first location along the Pounamu Pathway touring route to open. This self-guided experience is a historical and creative exploration of the Poutini Ngāi Tahu and the Māwhera Pā settlement people, retold by their ancestors. The exhibition will lead you through six different narratives, each tale including a large-scale masterpiece, artistically crafted by Weta Workshop to cultivate an immersive journey of visuals and sound.

The car collection represents years of passionate sourcing from around the world and New Zealand. These cars are some of the most sought-after models in Classic Motoring, presented to the highest standard, with some having undergone extensive restoration. As well as being classic examples of automotive technology, these cars tell an important story about the twentieth century. They represent the spectrum of automotive history, design, and craftsmanship. This is one of Australasia’s largest private collections.

The vibrant Nelson city centre offers an abundance of cafes, restaurants, bars and shops and along the waterfront, you will find many fine restaurants specialising in seafood to enjoy. Founded in 1841 by the New Zealand Company the region today still boasts many remarkable buildings from these early days, however it is its close proximity to Abel Tasman National Park that is one of Nelson’s greatest advantages to visitors with its pristine waters, beautiful native bush and golden beaches making this an adventure seeker’s paradise. Nelson is also famous for its art and crafts and you will find many local offerings - including the world-famous Hoglund Glassworks.

Heading north enjoy the spectacular scenery of the west coast, where the lush green forests meet the wild Tasman Sea. Driving along the Buller Gorge enjoy some wonderful scenery as you follow this magnificent river. The first major town (by this regions standard) is Inangahua and a small museum tells of the earthquake that hit the region in 1968 leaving 70% of the buildings damaged or inhabitable. Continuing to follow the river you reach the town of Murchison, from there you then enter the Kahurangi National Park region and the Nelson Lakes. Trees, rivers and valleys accompany you now as you head into the suburb of Richmond and then Nelson City.

Enjoy a scenic drive across the Waimea Plains, the Moutere Hills, and on to Kaiteriteri. Here, join a cruise along the coastline of Abel Tasman National Park, passing golden sand beaches, Split Apple Rock, Adele Island wildlife sanctuary, and Fur Seal colonies before arriving at the beautiful beach of Totaranui. Exploring Golden Bay, see the best spots including Te Waikoropupu Springs - home to some of the clearest fresh water in the world before enjoying the return drive home with its stunning views across Takaka Hill. This is an all-inclusive tour, including refreshments and a gourmet picnic lunch.

Picton is a picturesque portside town at the top of the South Island. Gateway to the forest, marine and island attractions of the Marlborough Sounds, Picton is built around a sheltered harbour. Home to cafes, restaurants and galleries it also has a floating maritime museum and aquarium. Picton is also the starting point for Queen Charlotte Track, one of New Zealand’s leading hiking trails.

The Coastal Pacific train journey travels between the delightful port of Picton and Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city. This journey is a scenic feast of New Zealand, with the Kaikoura mountain ranges on one side of your train and the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline on the other. Along the way you pass though the village of Kaikoura, where, if you’re touring New Zealand, you can break your journey to take in the whale watching or dare to get closer and swim with the dolphins. Travel through some of New Zealand’s finest horticultural and farmland areas, and see amazing wildlife such as dolphins, seals and penguins from the comfort of your train carriage. One of the world’s most scenic train journeys, the Coastal Pacific travels through 22 tunnels and crosses 175 bridges, one of them being New Zealand’s only road-rail bridge. As on The TranzAlpine, The Coastal Pacific includes an open air viewing carriage where all your senses are awakened with the clean, fresh, sea air.

Christchurch is a city brimming with art, from exhibitions and galleries to vibrant street art throughout the city. While you’re here, take time to explore the city’s rich artistic offerings, starting with the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū. With a diverse range of works on display, from old masters to contemporary art, there’s something for everyone. The gallery also hosts regular events, including talks, museum tours, and film screenings. Don’t miss The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora, a vibrant hub for arts, culture, education, creativity, and entrepreneurship. This collection of heritage buildings houses museums, boutique galleries, eateries, retailers, and offices. Beyond the conventional galleries, the city’s streets are an open-air art gallery. Christchurch has gained a strong reputation as the home of street art, with colourful murals from inspiring artists appearing across the inner city. Be sure to look out for the ever-evolving street art, including the Riverside Mural, Rauora Park’s spray cans, and the urban aesthetics of the YMCA building.

Located just 15 minutes from the city centre, Christchurch’s 75-acre Botanic Gardens boast the finest collection of exotic and indigenous plants in New Zealand. This impressive collection creates a tranquil oasis, with spring daffodils, stunning summer roses and herbaceous borders, vibrant autumn foliage, and cozy conservatories to warm up in during winter. There’s something to enjoy in every season. The New Zealand Garden also offers a unique glimpse into the country’s wilderness, providing a peaceful escape throughout the year.