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The days of passenger travel by train in New Zealand are largely over and what is left are the train journeys too stunning and scenic to retire. The South Island is home to two remaining long-distance scenic train journeys and these are counted among the most spectacular train journeys in the world. They are the TranzApline Train (that crosses the South Island from Christchurch to the West Coast through the awe-inspiring Southern Alps) and the second is the Coastal Pacific.
The Coastal Pacific follows the South Island's spectacular Pacific Coast from the port town of Picton (that links by ferry with the North Island) to the main South Island city of Christchurch. After reaching Christchurch, complete one's South Island tour with an epic South Island road trip.
Why The Coastal Pacific Train Is One Of The Best In The Southern Hemisphere
The Coastal Pacific passes along coastlines where mountains flow into the sea, fur seals bask on the boulders, and whales and dolphins breach and dive just off the coast. The town of Kaikoura is one of the South Island's leading coastal resort towns and is one of the best places in the world for watching sperm whales. It is also popular to go swimming with the dolphins in Kaikoura.
After major disruptions in 2016 (when the rail line was damaged from a powerful earthquake) and 2020 (due to the Covid pandemic), the Coastal Pacific is once again up and running. It takes tourists from far and wide on one of the most beautiful coastal train journeys in the world. Train services resumed again in September 2022.
The coastlines are rugged, and the experience is timeless as it is memorable. The journey travels through the vineyards of Blenheim (the heartland of New Zealand's wine industry) and along the Kaikoura Coastline (one of the best places to see sperm whales). Sit back and enjoy the experience of squeezing between mountains and the sea while passing through numerous tunnels as one passes by the famous Ohau seal colony.
Picton is both the gateway to the South Island (from the North Island) and the gateway to the majestic Marlborough Sounds in which Picton is set. See how different the South Island's Marlborough Sounds are compared with the dramatic fjords of Fiordland National Park.
What To Expect On The Coastal Pacific Train
The carriages have been specially designed for tourists. They have advanced airbag suspension that creates quieter and smoother travel. The windows offer panoramic views (including roof windows) and are un-tinted and non-reflective. Enjoy the GPS-triggered commentary along the journey. The carriages are also air conditioned and have onboard washrooms. The Café Carriage offers light meals, snacks, and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
There is also an open-air viewing carriage where passengers can enjoy the clean and fresh sea air. The open-air carriages are ideal for taking the most amazing photographs and really soak in the experience of traveling across New Zealand by train. The Coastal Pacific Train has three open-air viewing carriages and one should always bring some warm clothes to enjoy the outdoor experience.
The carriages have been designed to combine comfort with panoramic views. They come with spacious seating, generous legroom, and an airy ambiance. Relax and enjoy a smooth ride across some of New Zealand's most rugged and scenic terrain.
Planning A Journey On the Coastal Pacific Train
The Coastal Pacific Train operates from 29 September to 30 March from Thursday to Sunday. There are three stops along the route, Blenheim (the wine-growing region), Kaikoura (the whale-watching capital), and Rangiora.
- Season: 29 September to 30 March
- Fare: $169 NZD ($107 USD) - Picton to Christchurch
Timetable:
- Picton To Christchurch: Departure 1.40 pm, Arrival 7.30 pm
- Christchurch to Picton: Departure 7.00 am, Arrival 12.40 pm
It is very much worth it to make the journey a multi-day trip by spending a day or two in Kaikoura and a day in Blenheim. Alternatively, the journey can be a half-day trip.
Christchurch is the major city of the South Island with an international airport, the terminus at Picton connects with the ferries to the North Island and bus services to the stunning city of Nelson. If one has the time, both terminuses and the stops at Blenheim and Kaikoura are worth spending some time exploring.