Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Islands Destination Planner 2017 | Page 126

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RAIL
JOURNEYS / New Zealand
TranzAlpine
Operated by KiwiRail Scenic Journeys
The TranzAlpine scenic train journeys between Christchurch and Greymouth , crossing from one coast of New Zealand to the other daily .
Span the fertile farmlands of the Canterbury Plains and enjoy thrilling vistas over deep gorges as you travel alongside the ice-fed Waimakariri River . Traverse the mighty Southern Alps , where spectacular views of the chiselled landscape will take your breath away at every turn . After stopping at Arthur ' s Pass , descend through sub-tropical rainforest past beautiful Lake Brunner and on to Greymouth , a great base for exploring this unspoiled region of mighty glaciers and wild rivers .
You will enjoy all this in the comfort of world-class carriages featuring huge panoramic windows , a licensed café , and GPS triggered at-seat audio commentary . For a breath of fresh alpine air , step out onto the open air viewing carriage where nothing gets between your camera and the stunning scenery .
Northern Explorer price guide : $$
Operated by KiwiRail Scenic Journeys
Travel through the heart of New Zealand and experience the North Island ’ s extraordinary range of scenery in one journey .
The Northern Explorer takes you through rolling green farmland and virgin bush , past quaint country towns and along rocky coasts . The journey through Tongariro National Park , with its three spectacular volcanic mountains – Tongariro , Ngāuruhoe and Ruapehu – is a highlight , a place of extremes and surprises , where snowblanketed fields , ancient lava flows and dense beech forests can be seen side by side . Depart at Ohakune or National Park for skiing , hiking , or many other outdoor activities available in the Central Plateau region . Or make a stop off at Otorohanga to visit the famous Waitomo glow worm caves or the Hobbiton film set .
Enjoy all this in the comfort of world-class carriages featuring panoramic view windows , an onboard licensed café , GPS triggered audio commentary , and open air viewing .
Coastal Pacific price guide : $$
Operated by KiwiRail Scenic Journeys
The Coastal Pacific train travels between Christchurch , the South Island ’ s largest city , and the delightful port of Picton , gateway to the Marlborough Sounds and South Island port of the Interislander Ferry . This journey is a scenic feast with views of the picturesque Kaikoura mountain ranges on one side of the train contrasting with the rugged scenery of the Pacific Ocean coastline on the other . The Coastal Pacific passes through the town of Kaikoura , where it is possible to break the journey to whale watch or swim with dolphins . Travel through some of New Zealand ’ s finest farmland and see endearing wildlife such as dolphins , seals and penguins from the comfort of the train carriage .
The Coastal Pacific operates an extended summer season , with services running daily from September to May . The train also connects with the Interislander Ferry and Sounds Air scenic flights , making travel to and from the North Island a breeze .
Interislander price guide : $$
Operated by KiwiRail Scenic Journeys
Interislander travels the Cook Strait between the North and South Islands of New Zealand and is one of the most spectacular cruises in the world . The 92-kilometre journey between Wellington and Picton is one of New Zealand ' s most iconic tourist experiences .
With the option of walking or driving aboard in your car or campervan , it is the simplest way to connect between the islands .
During your Interislander journey , take a stroll on the decks , enjoy a meal or a drink from a great range of local beers and wines , or even catch the latest movie release . Or , of course , simply be awed by the breathtaking views of the Marlborough Sounds .
price guide : $$
ANDERSON VACATIONS From prices for accommodation are ‘ per room ’ and sightseeing are ‘ per person ’.