Coastal Pacific
The Coastal Pacific passes mountains and sea near Oara
Witness dramatic coastlines, snow-capped mountains and soak up the diverse landscapes on the Coastal Pacific
This 348km epic South Island journey whisks you from charming Picton (gateway to Marlborough Sounds) to the whale and dolphin watching town of Kaikoura and onto Christchurch, the island's vibrant heart. Witness dramatic coastlines, majestic mountains, and unforgettable landscapes. All aboard for adventure!
Coastal views on the Coastal Pacific
Mountain views
The Kekerengu Coastline
The Coastal Pacific adventure
Unwind on one of the Worlds most stunning scenic train journeys along New Zealand's South Island coast. The Coastal Pacific journeys past craggy cliffs, rolling farmland, and charming vineyards, offering glimpses of playful seals and soaring seabirds. Witness the majestic Kaikoura Ranges rising from the Pacific Ocean, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience where chances of spotting playful dolphins and whales possible.
Travel in comfort on the Coastal Pacific. Advanced air suspension ensures a smooth and quiet ride, while strategically placed, non-reflective windows maximise your view of the spectacular scenery. Stay informed with GPS-triggered, multi-lingual commentary delivered directly to your headphones. Information displays, overhead HD videos, and a comfortable climate-controlled environment complete your unforgettable experience.
Travel in comfort on the Coastal Pacific. Advanced air suspension ensures a smooth and quiet ride, while strategically placed, non-reflective windows maximise your view of the spectacular scenery. Stay informed with GPS-triggered, multi-lingual commentary delivered directly to your headphones. Information displays, overhead HD videos, and a comfortable climate-controlled environment complete your unforgettable experience.
On board the train
Forget just getting there. The Coastal Pacific transforms your travel into an experience. Journey in comfort and style, soaking in the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand's Coastal passage by train.
Comfort with a view
Relax and unwind with ample legroom and spacious seating. The airy ambience creates a pleasant atmosphere for you to sit back, unwind, and soak in the ever-changing scenery.
Generous windows frame breathtaking views throughout your journey. New Zealand's rolling hills, dramatic coastlines, and majestic mountains will unfold before your eyes, transforming the train into a moving observatory.
Generous windows frame breathtaking views throughout your journey. New Zealand's rolling hills, dramatic coastlines, and majestic mountains will unfold before your eyes, transforming the train into a moving observatory.
Open air carriages
Don't just see the scenery, feel it. The Open-air Viewing Carriage offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories on your New Zealand adventure. Step outside the ordinary and experience the magic for yourself!
To ensure your comfort, we recommend bringing warm clothes and sunglasses. New Zealand's weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared to embrace all that the outdoors has to offer.
To ensure your comfort, we recommend bringing warm clothes and sunglasses. New Zealand's weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared to embrace all that the outdoors has to offer.
Cafe and Service
The Scenic Cafe features a menu brimming with fresh, local ingredients, offering a taste of New Zealand with every bite.
Succulent braised beef cheeks and vibrant Moroccan spiced vegetable salad tantalise your taste buds. Or savour one of the timeless classics of roasted free-range chicken or a hearty lamb shank.
Succulent braised beef cheeks and vibrant Moroccan spiced vegetable salad tantalise your taste buds. Or savour one of the timeless classics of roasted free-range chicken or a hearty lamb shank.
Connect with the stories of New Zealand
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of New Zealand's North Island. Our GPS-powered commentary unveils a captivating blend of stories, local legends, and historical insights about the passing landscapes.
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Make sure you are ready with your camera when you reach Mangamaunu Bay. This is where the Kaikoura Mountain Range meets one of the best surf beaches in New Zealand.
See Dolphins in Kaikoura
Journey at your pace...
The beauty of the Coastal Pacific, as with all the great train journeys lies not just in the breathtaking views, but also in the flexibility it offers. Unlike traditional point-to-point journeys, you can transform your trip into a multi-stop adventure.
Disembark at any of the stops along the way to spend a day or two exploring and jump aboard another train to continue your journey.
If marine life is your cup of tea then you could leave the train at the coastal town of Kaikoura and book trips to go whale watching, swim with dolphins in the wild or tramp along the coastal walks spotting seals before jumping back on the train the next day and continuing your journey.
Disembark at any of the stops along the way to spend a day or two exploring and jump aboard another train to continue your journey.
If marine life is your cup of tea then you could leave the train at the coastal town of Kaikoura and book trips to go whale watching, swim with dolphins in the wild or tramp along the coastal walks spotting seals before jumping back on the train the next day and continuing your journey.
Coastal Pacific timetable
The Coastal Pacific train runs daily in both directions until May 5, 2024, pauses for a winter break, and then resumes its four-day service on September 19, 2024. From 1 January 2025 until 27 April 2025, this train travels daily.
It’s important to know you must book in advance to travel on this train as they are not able to take walk-on passengers once the train is fully booked.
It’s important to know you must book in advance to travel on this train as they are not able to take walk-on passengers once the train is fully booked.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some of our most common questions. If you need any more assistance we'd be happy to help.
Do I need to book a ticket in advance?
How do I receive my ticket?
What time should I check in for my train?
How much carry-on luggage can I bring on board?
Are there toilet and washroom facilities onboard?
What accessibility and disability assistance is available on the trains?
Book your adventure on the Coastal Pacific
Travel the rugged coastline of New Zealands South Island.
Book your adventure on the Coastal Pacific
Travel the rugged coastline of New Zealands South Island.
If you have any questions or want to get in touch...
For information about making bookings or travel in New Zealand get in touch with our team of experienced locals.