Breadcrumb
New Zealand tour itinerary name and information
Grand Pacific Tours

Grand Pacific 19 Day Signature Rail, Cruise & Coach

This extremely popular tour has been designed specifically for rail enthusiasts to enjoy the best of New Zealand at a relaxed pace. The itinerary includes a selection of breathtaking journeys, visiting many exciting attractions, and a wide range of activities. Journey across the Southern Alps on board the TranzAlpine train, enjoy a relaxing trip on the beautifully restored Glenbrook Railway vintage train, and cruise the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry. A highlight is an overnight experience aboard the Milford Mariner as you cruise across the majestic Milford Sound.

**Note for those traveling on 21 and 29 April 2025 departures: As the Coastal Pacific Train is not in operation on the dates required, a reduction will be applied at the time of final payment, in case scheduling changes.

Currency selector
Select your currency to view indicative pricing
Tour summary and feature
Quick Itinerary Details

Guided Coach Touring

This suggested tour costs from NZD$11,304 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Christchurch

19 days/18 nights

Hotel 4 star

 Pre and post tour options? YES

 Viewed 59 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

Arrowtown Lakes District Museum
Auckland City Tour
Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise
Huka Falls
Larnach Castle
Milford Sound Overnight Boat Cruise
Olveston Historic Home
Paradise Valley Springs
Speights heritage brewery tour
Wellington City Tour
Complimentary pre-dinner welcome drink
Professional Coach Captain
18 breakfasts, 12 dinners, 3 special dinners
price pp from
Was NZD$11,899
Now NZD$11,304
twin share/double
Tour at a glance

Day 1: Arrive Auckland

Day 2: Auckland - Bay of Islands

Day 3: Bay of Islands (Free Day)

Day 4: Bay of Islands - Auckland

Day 5: Auckland - Rotorua

Day 6: Rotorua

Day 7: Rotorua - Wellington

Day 8: Wellington

Day 9: Wellington - Kaikōura - Christchurch

Day 10: Christchurch

Day 11: Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Franz Josef

Day 12: Franz Josef - Queenstown

Day 13: Queenstown (Free Day)

Day 14: Queenstown - Milford Sound Overnight Cruise

Day 15: Milford Sound - Te Anau

Day 16: Te Anau - Dunedin

Day 17: Dunedin

Day 18: Dunedin - Christchurch

Day 19: Depart Christchurch

Tour full itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Auckland city

On arrival into Auckland, you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink when you meet your Tour Leader and travelling companions for dinner.

Staying in Hotel Grand Millennium Auckland

  • 4 Star Plus Accommodation

    Superbly located in the very heart of cosmopolitan Auckland, close to Queen Street and Viaduct Harbour with some of the city’s finest dining, shopping and entertainment venues at your doorstep...Each room offering style, space and wonderful Auckland City views from the floor to ceiling windows.  Rooms have a king bed or two double beds, and a separate bath and shower.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Grand Pacific Merchandise

Quality merchandise is great value for money and will provide a special memento of your holiday for years to come. Tour jackets and tour caps are avai...

Read more

Quality merchandise is great value for money and will provide a special memento of your holiday for years to come. Tour jackets and tour caps are available for purchase. Merchandise items must be ordered at the time of booking and are not available for purchase in New Zealand

Hide
Boast motoring toward an Island near Paihia

Enjoy a city tour of Auckland, dubbed the ‘City of Sails’, before travelling to Matakohe to enjoy a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum. Travel via Whangarei to Paihia, situated in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location of the signing of the treaty between the Māori tribes and the British.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands (2 nights)

  • 4 Star Accommodation

    Any time of year is ideal for escaping to the Bay of Islands in the ‘Winterless North’, and this property, situated at the entrance to the seaside town of Paihai, is the perfect resort-style retreat.

    The island-influenced architecture with expansive sub-tropical gardens, water features, extensive guest facilities and easy walking access to Paihia’s main local attractions makes this 4-star Hotel a standout.

Hole inthe Rock near Cape Brett Bay of Islands

Today is a free day. Choose from the many optional activities available, including the Cape Reinga coach trip via Ninety Mile Beach or a spectacular scenic flight. This evening is also free, you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands

  • 4 Star Accommodation

    Any time of year is ideal for escaping to the Bay of Islands in the ‘Winterless North’, and this property, situated at the entrance to the seaside town of Paihai, is the perfect resort-style retreat.

    The island-influenced architecture with expansive sub-tropical gardens, water features, extensive guest facilities and easy walking access to Paihia’s main local attractions makes this 4-star Hotel a standout.

Auckland skyscape on a sunny day

This morning cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over Piercy Island, or as it is popularly known, the ‘Hole in the Rock’. Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life. Upon return to Paihia, travel south via Whangarei, before returning to Auckland. This evening is free to explore the many eateries surrounding your hotel.

Staying in Hotel Grand Millennium Auckland

  • 4 Star Plus Accommodation

    Superbly located in the very heart of cosmopolitan Auckland, close to Queen Street and Viaduct Harbour with some of the city’s finest dining, shopping and entertainment venues at your doorstep...Each room offering style, space and wonderful Auckland City views from the floor to ceiling windows.  Rooms have a king bed or two double beds, and a separate bath and shower.

Maori performance

This morning travel to Glenbrook Vintage Railway for a nostalgic 15 kilometre trip back in time on a beautifully restored vintage steam train including a delightful morning tea. Depart Glenbrook and travel through magnificent countryside of rolling hills and green pastures famous for dairying. Continue to Rotorua renowned for its geothermal activity and Māori culture.

Staying in Hotel Pullman Rotorua (2 nights)

  • 4 Star Plus Accommodation

    Situated in the heart of the city and moments away from the lakefront, Pullman Rotorua is the perfect base to explore the region’s geothermal paradise.

    A Pullman stay is an entire experience with 130 luxurious rooms and suites, energising gym, vibrant dining and a chic bar. Pullman is surrounded by surreal scenery and iconic attractions. Discover shooting geysers, bubbling mud pools, natural hot springs and magical forests.

    Experience a contemporary open-plan room design inspired by the region’s geothermal origins. Windows let in the daylight and views overlooking the vibrant city. The room features a plush Pullman king-size bed and local artwork.

Maori Warriors during performance

Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at Skyline Rotorua. There is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is the Agrodome for an action-packed hour of farming entertainment and education that is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Enjoy some free time this afternoon before travelling to Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. This evening experience an entertaining Māori Hāngi and Concert.

Staying in Hotel Pullman Rotorua

  • 4 Star Plus Accommodation

    Situated in the heart of the city and moments away from the lakefront, Pullman Rotorua is the perfect base to explore the region’s geothermal paradise.

    A Pullman stay is an entire experience with 130 luxurious rooms and suites, energising gym, vibrant dining and a chic bar. Pullman is surrounded by surreal scenery and iconic attractions. Discover shooting geysers, bubbling mud pools, natural hot springs and magical forests.

    Experience a contemporary open-plan room design inspired by the region’s geothermal origins. Windows let in the daylight and views overlooking the vibrant city. The room features a plush Pullman king-size bed and local artwork.

Huka Falls New Zealand

Travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to the spectacular Huka Falls. Continue to Lake Taupo for some free time to enjoy this scenic lakeside town. Travel via the Tongariro National Park and continue south to New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington.

Staying in Hotel James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor (2 nights)

  • 4 Star Accommodation

    The James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor presents an engaging selection of rooms, thoughtful amenities and gracious hospitality from the heart of Wellington’s city centre. Recently refurbished this leading accommodation and venue provider is located on The Terrace in New Zealand’s thriving capital city nearby to all major attractions. You will stay in rooms which are located on the higher floors and showcase contemporary furnishings, deluxe bathrooms with walk-in showers and Forest & Bird amenities.

Cable Car ascending Wellington Hill

A highlight this morning will be time to explore Gallipoli: A Scale of War exhibition at Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum. Cutting edge technology brings these stories to life through the eyes of New Zealanders who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances. Reboard your coach for an extensive city tour. This afternoon ride the Wellington Cable Car to Kelburn Station where you can explore the Cable Car Museum or stroll through the Botanic Gardens. This evening is also free to explore Wellington’s lively food scene.

Staying in Hotel James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor

  • 4 Star Accommodation

    The James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor presents an engaging selection of rooms, thoughtful amenities and gracious hospitality from the heart of Wellington’s city centre. Recently refurbished this leading accommodation and venue provider is located on The Terrace in New Zealand’s thriving capital city nearby to all major attractions. You will stay in rooms which are located on the higher floors and showcase contemporary furnishings, deluxe bathrooms with walk-in showers and Forest & Bird amenities.

The Parlimentary buildings in Wellington, The Beehive

This morning board the Interislander Ferry and enjoy the scenery as you travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton. Join the Coastal Pacific, a truly spectacular rail journey that follows a thin wedge of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikōura Ranges. Meet your coach in the fishing village of Kaikōura for the journey to the garden city of Christchurch.

Staying in Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel (2 nights)

  • 4.5 Star Accommodation

    Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey, 4.5 star hotel offers Classic Rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

Guests enjoying the comforts of the Grand Pacific Coach

Today visit the International Antarctic Centre, designed to provide an informative account of life in Antarctica. This is followed by an introductory city tour of Christchurch. This afternoon includes a journey on board the Christchurch Tram at leisure. This evening is free to explore the local cuisine.

Staying in Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel

  • 4.5 Star Accommodation

    Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey, 4.5 star hotel offers Classic Rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

Exterior of the Grand Pacific Signature Coach

This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges as you ascend to Arthur’s Pass. Board your coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before arriving at the township of Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

  • 4 Star Accommodation

    Only a breath away from the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, in the heart of the village and edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, lies the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier offering everything you need to explore this dramatic region in style and comfort. The professional and friendly staff pride themselves on making your stay enjoyable and comfortable.

Snow capped mountains of the Remarkables overlooking Queenstown

See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south via the Haast Pass, before arriving into picturesque Queenstown, situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. This evening is free to dine at one of the many fine restaurants.

Staying in Hotel Millennium Hotel Queenstown (2 nights)

  • 4 Star Plus Accommodation

    Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping and entertainment district and offers accommodation with scenic views of Queenstown city and mountains, providing the perfect backdrop to your trip. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel.  All rooms at Millennium Hotel Queenstown are designed for complete relaxation with its inviting bed and cosy ambience, it’s a good nights rest for sure.

View over Queenstown from the top of the Skyline complex

Today is a free day to explore Queenstown. Your crew will assist with the many optional activities available. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner featuring a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown.

Staying in Hotel Millennium Hotel Queenstown

  • 4 Star Plus Accommodation

    Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping and entertainment district and offers accommodation with scenic views of Queenstown city and mountains, providing the perfect backdrop to your trip. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel.  All rooms at Millennium Hotel Queenstown are designed for complete relaxation with its inviting bed and cosy ambience, it’s a good nights rest for sure.

Boat cruising through Milford Sound

This morning travel to Arrowtown and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via Te Anau to Milford Sound and board the Milford Mariner for your amazing overnight cruise. There is plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife - you’re bound to encounter seals and if you’re lucky maybe dolphins and penguins. There are opportunities to explore the shoreline by tender boat or kayak (swimwear required) - or to simply relax on board. As evening falls enjoy a delicious carvery buffet prepared freshly by the onboard chef.

Staying in Overnight Milford Mariner

  • This overnight cruise through the heart of Fiordland provides astonishing views and the ultimate Milford Sound adventure. Departing from the Milford Sound wharf in the late afternoon and accompanied by a specialist nature guide explaining the history and geology of the area. This cruise style is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife – you’re bound to encounter seals and, if you’re lucky, maybe dolphins and penguins too.

Milford Mariner vessel on the Fiord

Start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading back out to the Tasman Sea (weather permitting) to explore more of the fiord. Return to the wharf to meet your coach and enjoy the scenic drive to Te Anau where you will enjoy an afternoon at leisure. You may like to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (optional).

Staying in Hotel Distinction Luxmore Hotel Lake Te Anau

  • 4 Star Accommodation

    Conveniently located in the heart of Te Anau's town shopping centre and a short stroll from the South Island’s largest lake - Lake Te Anau. Escape into the serene surroundings of Distinction Luxmore Hotel before heading out to explore the world-famous beauty of Fiordland including Milford Sound. Stay in rooms which are well appointed and modern with a Fiordland interior design theme. The hotel offers an excellent standard of service and the team at Distinction Luxmore will make your stay in Te Anau comfortable and enjoyable.

Dunedin Railway Station

Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin, famous for its stunning Edwardian and Victorian architecture dating back to the gold rush of the 1800s. Enjoy a city tour of New Zealand’s oldest university city.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Dunedin City (2 nights)

  • 4.5 Star Accommodation

    Positioned in the heart of the city and just blocks from the Octagon, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is within walking distance of many of the city's main attractions, great restaurants and shopping centres. This stylish hotel has a fresh contemporary design, with clean lines and dramatic features softened by natural elements such as timber and neutral tones.  The attention to style, quality, convenience and service is evident throughout the hotel.   

Aerial View of Larnach Castle

Travel along the picturesque Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle. On a guided tour you will hear the tragic and scandalous tales which make up the castle’s history. Enjoy time to wander around this Garden of International Significance followed by a delicious Devonshire Tea. Return to Dunedin for some free time. Optional activities to consider include a wildlife excursion to observe animals in their natural habitat or a guided tour of Olveston Historic Home, containing a wealth of treasures of a bygone era.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

  • 4.5 Star Accommodation

    Positioned in the heart of the city and just blocks from the Octagon, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is within walking distance of many of the city's main attractions, great restaurants and shopping centres. This stylish hotel has a fresh contemporary design, with clean lines and dramatic features softened by natural elements such as timber and neutral tones.  The attention to style, quality, convenience and service is evident throughout the hotel.   

GP clients enjoying a last night drink together

Today travel to the small town of Oamaru, famous for its limestone architecture before continuing to Christchurch. This evening enjoy a pre-dinner drink and reminisce on memories shared with your new friends at the farewell dinner.

Staying in Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel

  • 4.5 Star Accommodation

    Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey, 4.5 star hotel offers Classic Rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

Interior of the GP Signature Coach

Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.

Contact form
Send enquiry about this tour
Your contact information
Subscribe to our Regular Newsletter for Inspiring Holiday Ideas
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Tour departure list
See all departure dates & prices
Departure dates and prices
This tour has 17 departure dates.
All prices are in
Go to dates in
Starts Status   Twin/Double Single occupancy You save  
Sep 12, 2025
(Friday)
Hot deal
Check with us
Enquire Book
was NZD$11,899
now NZD$11,304
was NZD$15,749
now NZD$15,154
save
NZD$595
Enquire Book
Oct 1, 2025
(Wednesday)
Hot deal
Guaranteed
departure date
Enquire Book
was NZD$12,149
now NZD$11,544
was NZD$15,999
now NZD$15,394
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Oct 9, 2025
(Thursday)
Hot deal
Guaranteed
departure date
Enquire Book
was NZD$12,149
now NZD$11,544
was NZD$15,999
now NZD$15,394
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Oct 14, 2025
(Tuesday)
Hot deal
Guaranteed
limited space left
Enquire Book
was NZD$12,149
now NZD$11,544
was NZD$15,999
now NZD$15,394
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Nov 26, 2025
(Wednesday)
Hot deal
Guaranteed
departure date
Enquire Book
was NZD$12,149
now NZD$11,544
was NZD$15,999
now NZD$15,394
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Dec 12, 2025
(Friday)
Hot deal
Guaranteed
departure date
Enquire Book
was NZD$11,999
now NZD$11,394
was NZD$15,849
now NZD$15,244
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Jan 2, 2026
(Friday)
Hot deal
Guaranteed
departure date
Enquire Book
was NZD$12,149
now NZD$11,544
was NZD$15,999
now NZD$15,394
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Jan 17, 2026
(Saturday)
Hot deal
Guaranteed
departure date
Enquire Book
was NZD$12,149
now NZD$11,544
was NZD$15,999
now NZD$15,394
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Jan 24, 2026
(Saturday)
Hot deal
Guaranteed
departure date
Enquire Book
was NZD$12,149
now NZD$11,544
was NZD$15,999
now NZD$15,394
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Feb 7, 2026
(Saturday)
Hot deal
Check with us
Enquire Book
was NZD$12,149
now NZD$11,544
was NZD$15,999
now NZD$15,394
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Feb 18, 2026
(Wednesday)
Hot deal
Check with us
Enquire Book
was NZD$12,149
now NZD$11,544
was NZD$15,999
now NZD$15,394
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Feb 22, 2026
(Sunday)
Guaranteed
departure date
Enquire Book NZD$12,149 NZD$15,999 Enquire Book
Mar 14, 2026
(Saturday)
Hot deal
Check with us
Enquire Book
was NZD$12,149
now NZD$11,544
was NZD$15,999
now NZD$15,394
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Mar 19, 2026
(Thursday)
Guaranteed
departure date
Enquire Book NZD$12,149 NZD$15,999 Enquire Book
Mar 30, 2026
(Monday)
Hot deal
Guaranteed
departure date
Enquire Book
was NZD$12,149
now NZD$11,544
was NZD$15,999
now NZD$15,394
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Apr 6, 2026
(Monday)
Hot deal
Guaranteed
departure date
Enquire Book
was NZD$12,149
now NZD$11,544
was NZD$15,999
now NZD$15,394
save
NZD$605
Enquire Book
Apr 28, 2026
(Tuesday)
Hot deal
Guaranteed
departure date
Enquire Book
was NZD$11,899
now NZD$11,304
was NZD$15,749
now NZD$15,154
save
NZD$595
Enquire Book
All prices are in
Go to dates in
Tour recommendation

Some similar tours to this one

19 days Map
Grand Pacific 19 Day Signature Showcase
View Tour
 
17 days Map
AAT Kings New Zealand Uncovered 26/27
View Tour
 
17 days Map
AAT Kings Kia Ora New Zealand 25/26
View Tour
 
Tour quick quote rework

Get an Instant Quote or Book this Tour

Grand Pacific 19 Day Signature Rail, Cruise & Coach

Step 1:
Step 2: Select number of passengers and room configuration
Step 3: Add these options

Enter phone number to get a call from a travel planning expert within in 24 hours

Enter email address to receive your instant quote

Tick this box if you do not wish to receive emails about special offers
No pricing loaded - please choose another date or contact us

Your quote for this tour:

Start date:
End date:
Guests:
Rooms:

Total cost for ALL guests on this tour package is:

NZD$0

or
This quote is based on vehicles to accommodate your party in the vehicle type. We suggest changing the car type or contacting us for the best options.
The package cost above excludes rental vehicle hire as you are requesting a price for a vehicle outside of our designated season. Please reach out direct for rental vehicle rates.

NOTE: Quotes are subject to availability of specific accommodation and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on todays exchange rate and is subject to change.Terms and Conditions apply

Remember - we can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.