Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Captivating Coast Tour
Wellington to Christchurch
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New Zealand tour itinerary name and information
Great Journeys of New Zealand

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Captivating Coast Tour

Join a luxurious a scenic experience across the Cook Strait, past coastal beaches, and through mountain valleys. Sip world-class wine among the vines in Marlborough, spend the day surrounded by wildlife in Kaikōura, and explore New Zealand’s city life in Wellington, Picton, Kaikoura, and Christchurch.

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Quick Itinerary Details

Guided Coach & Train Tours

This suggested tour costs from NZD$3,999 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Wellington, finishes in Christchurch

6 days/5 nights

Hotel 4 star

 Pre and post tour options? YES

 Viewed 157 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

Cruise on the Interislander Ferry
Marlborough Wine Tour
Whale Watch Kaikoura tour
Christchurch Tram
5 breakfasts, 2 dinners
Tour at a glance

Day 1: Welcome to Wellington
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 2: Cross the Cook Straight on the interislander Ferry from Wellington to Picton
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 3: Picton to Kaikoura on the Coastal Pacific Train
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 4: Kaikoura to Christchurch on the Coastal Pacific Train
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 5: Discover the regenerated city of Christchurch
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 6: Depart Christchurch Today

Tour full itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Captivating Coast Tour - Day 1
Explore Wellington

Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand’s windy capital! Wellington is known for its world-class dining, great coffee and eccentric shops. Your great journey will officially begin the moment you check into your hotel room. After reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Wellington has to offer.  This is the perfect opportunity to get cultured at Te Papa Museum or grab a drink at one of the many quirky bars on Cuba Street. You may even fancy a ride on the cable car!
After an exciting day on the town, join your fellow travellers as well as the Tour Director at this evening’s welcome reception.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Dinner
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Captivating Coast Tour - Day 2
Adventure to the South - Haere ra to Te Ika a Maui

This morning you will say poroporoaki ki te motu raki (good-bye to the North Island) as you sail to the South Island, crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry. As the shores of the North Island slowly disappear, settle down in the comfy seats in the Premium Lounge. Treat yourself to a mimosa and enjoy a hearty seafaring breakfast, but save some room for morning tea!
On your journey across the Cook Strait you may spot pods of dolphins playing in the wake or, if you are very lucky, a whale. Don’t spend all your time inside – as you enter the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound enjoy the views as you cruise past the remnants of whaling stations, remote working sheep farms, pristine native bush and mussel farms. Admire the beauty of this coastal paradise as you arrive into the gateway of the South Island, Picton. Step off the Interislander Ferry and join your next world-class experience aboard a Marlborough Wine Tour.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Captivating Coast Tour - Day 3
Picton to Kaikoura on the Coastal Pacific Train

The morning is yours to explore Picton. Meander through the impressive Edwin Fox- the world’s oldest surviving merchant sailing ships, the local craft stores, and coastal walks. Enjoy the waterfront cafés before boarding the Coastal Pacific train for another highlight rail journey through the Marlborough Wine Region.
Today you will be travelling into Kaikōura. Relax as the train glides across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks!
Once in Kaikōura, the evening will be yours to enjoy some iconic kai moana (seafood) at one of the quaint restaurants before enjoying your luxurious ocean-front hotel.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Captivating Coast Tour - Day 4
Kaikoura to Christchurch on the Coastal Pacific Train

Today will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience of whale watching! Enjoy today’s thrill of an up-close encounter with the world's largest-toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale. If you would prefer to gain an aerial experience of the wildlife, why not request a plane or helicopter ride to capture the true grandeur of it all?
After this outstanding experience, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the beach to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips. Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops.
In the late afternoon, your journey will continue, once again, on the Coastal Pacific Train en route to Christchurch, or “The Garden City”. The spectacular scenery doesn’t cease to amaze as you journey south through the rolling hills and flat plains. Enjoy the relaxing journey with a glass of wine in hand from the scenic café. Enjoy a peaceful evening before hitting the town the following day.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Captivating Coast Tour - Day 5
Explore Christchurch

Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is still rebuilding itself into a multicultural haven. So, without further delay, jump on the historic tram to learn the history, tales and culture of Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Enjoy your free time as you explore the Arts Centre, Quake City Museum, Antarctic Centre, and botanical gardens. There is also a multitude of delicious cafes tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love. If you are in the mood for something different, set off for Akaroa, an ‘incroyable’ French coastal settlement just outside the city. 
Dinner awaits as you join your fellow travellers once again to tell them about the exciting places you have discovered.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Captivating Coast Tour - Day 6
Depart Christchurch

Your journey will finish after breakfast. You will be transferred to Christchurch Airport for your departing flight.

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Departure dates and prices
This tour has 12 departure dates.
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Starts Status Double (2 people sharing) Single occupancy You save  
Apr 2, 2024
(Tuesday)
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limited space left
NZD$4,499 NZD$5,648 Enquire Book
Apr 12, 2024
(Friday)
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NZD$4,499 NZD$5,648
Apr 23, 2024
(Tuesday)
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NZD$4,499 NZD$5,648 Enquire Book
Sep 17, 2024
(Tuesday)
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limited space left
NZD$3,999 NZD$5,168 Enquire Book
Oct 8, 2024
(Tuesday)
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limited space left
NZD$3,999 NZD$5,168 Enquire Book
Nov 5, 2024
(Tuesday)
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limited space left
NZD$3,999 NZD$5,168 Enquire Book
Dec 10, 2024
(Tuesday)
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NZD$3,999 NZD$5,168 Enquire Book
Jan 28, 2025
(Tuesday)
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NZD$3,999 NZD$5,168 Enquire Book
Feb 2, 2025
(Sunday)
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limited space left
NZD$3,999 NZD$5,168 Enquire Book
Feb 25, 2025
(Tuesday)
Sold out
NZD$3,999 NZD$5,168
Mar 18, 2025
(Tuesday)
Sold out
NZD$3,999 NZD$5,168
Apr 15, 2025
(Tuesday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$3,999 NZD$5,168 Enquire Book
Apr 22, 2025
(Tuesday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$3,999 NZD$5,168 Enquire Book
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