- Pricing From $7,995
- Single Supplement $595
- From Christchurch
- Duration 7 Days
- Max Group Size 20
- Activity Level Easy Going
- Departs 2025
- Returns 2025
Join Bill Peach Journeys to discover the breathtaking vistas offered on New Zealand’s South Island coast. With the Pacific Ocean lapping on one side and the Kaikoura ranges rising majestically on the other, travel in style on board the exclusive Scenic Plus premium carriage on the Coastal Pacific train, undoubtedly one of the world’s most picturesque rail journeys. As the train skirts around secluded bays and across isolated beaches, have your camera ready as words cannot express the sights that unfold. From the scenic port town of Picton we discover the serene magnificence of the Marlborough Sounds indulging in the freshest of seafood and wine, for which the region is world-renowned. Moving on to the pristine spectacle of Abel Tasman National Park reveals yet more coastal splendour as we cruise this awe-inspiring waterway.
It is not hard to see why the south island of New Zealand is considered to be one of the most sublime places on earth! The stunning scenery and tranquil waterways highlight the remarkable diversity and beauty of this coastal region. Add stylish accommodation and exceptional meals and you have the perfect journey!
Highlights
- Stay at stylish accommodation throughout including Sofitel Wellington and Christchurch’s newest boutique luxury hotel, The Mayfair
- Travel along the the South Island of New Zealand’s spectacular east coast from Christchurch to Picton on the Coastal Pacific train. Travel in style as we enjoy stunning vistas from the exclusive Scenic Plus premium carriage & regionally inspired cuisine
- Explore the dramatic and breathtaking landscapes of Abel Tasman National Park
- Enjoy a seafood and wine cruise through the Marlborough Sounds to view the natural beauty of this environment
- Touring of picturesque Picton, Marlborough, Nelson and Wellington
- Take a private tour of the fascinating Knights of the Sky exhibitions, one of the world’s largest private collections of WW1 & WW2 aircraft and artifacts showcased in dramatic and realistic displays
- Step back in time with a visit to Nelson’s Classic Car Museum and the Museaum Gallery that showcases local artisans
- All meals - breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Your own room with reduced single supplement charge
- Escorted throughout by a dedicated Journey Director
Hotels
Bill Peach Journeys understands the importance of selecting the right accommodation to complement each journey. In this case, a selection of exceptional properties have been chosen to showcase the incredible destinations visited throughout this journey.
The Mayfair Christchurch
The Mayfair is Christchurch's newest 5 star Boutique Hotel, unlike any other in the city boasting sumptuous and spacious guest rooms styled in modern relaxed luxury. Located on vibrant Victoria Street, one of the most iconic and historic thoroughfares in the central city, the Mayfair is a short stroll to the iconic Hagley Park, Christchurch's city centre and Riverside Market.Carnmore Chateau Marlborough
widely recognized as the leading luxury hotel at the top of the South Island. Chateau Marlborough is the perfect base for exploring this amazing region and epitomises the excellence for which the region is renowned.Sofitel Wellington
Sofitel Wellington is the leading luxury hotel in the city, combining French art de vivre with the spirit of New Zealand. Unwind in the welcoming, sophisticated rooms within a short walk of many attractions including Wellington Botanic Garden. A delightful amalgam of New Zealand’s natural beauty and colonial heritage, each peaceful space blends rich timbers, gleaming metals and luxurious fabrics into a haven of chic relaxation.
Upon arrival in Christchurch transfer to The Mayfair, a luxury 5-star boutique hotel. Exuding a luxe yet relaxed ambience, The The Mayfair offers a stunning location near to the picturesque Hagley Park and the River Avon. Tonight there will be a welcome dinner hosted by your Journey Director.
Overnight: The Mayfair or similar
Travel in style today as we enjoy stunning vistas from the exclusive new Scenic Plus premium carriage and regionally inspired cuisine on board the renowned Coastal Pacific train. We depart Christchurch, heading north on our coastal journey along New Zealand’s wild coastlines, pressed against the sea by rugged cliffs that rise from the Pacific Ocean to form the Kaikoura mountain ranges. It is pure seaside magic, with New Zealand’s best scenery, wildlife and engineering feats filling the windows.
We arrive in the picturesque seaside town of Picton in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds for lunch followed by a visit to the Edwin Fox Ship Museum. Transfer to Omaka where we enjoy a private tour of the fascinating Knights of the Sky and Dangerous Skies exhibitions. Owned by Lord of the Rings Director Sir Peter Jackson, Knights of the Sky is one of the world’s largest private collections of WW1 aircraft and artefacts showcased in dramatic and realistic displays. The story of aviation in the Great War is brought to life in sensational sets created by the internationally acclaimed WingNut Films and Wētā Workshop. The second exhibition, Dangerous Skies, features stories from World War II. These are tales of daring, courage, and tragedy stretching from the British Isles to the forests of Germany, an embattled but courageous Russia, and the Pacific Islands. On display are an iconic Spitfire and a rare Dehavilland Mosquito.
Overnight: Chateau Marlborough or similar
This morning enjoy a tour of the Marlborough wine region which is renowned the world over, particularly famed for its award-winning Sauvignon Blanc. We then embark on a relaxing cruise of the stunning Marlborough Sounds accompanied by fresh local seafood and wine.
Overnight: Chateau Marlborough or similar
We transfer by coach to Havelock visiting the Havelock Museum to learn about the area’s history. Discover why this town is named the mussel capital of the world before transferring to Nelson. As the second oldest city in New Zealand, this beautiful town has many historical sites for those wishing to explore and a chance to learn about the history and settlement stories of old.
Overnight: The Quest Nelson or similar
A full day to discover the pristine natural wonderland of Abel Tasman National Park. A gourmet cruise is the perfect way to explore this stunning coastline, from the rugged, rocky headlands to the crystal clear waters where seals can be seen in their natural habitat. We return to Nelson for dinner this evening.
Overnight: The Quest Nelson or similar
Step back in time with a visit to Nelson’s Classic Car museum voted one of Nelson’s top attractions. Over 115 years of head turning motoring spread across two buildings housing over 150 vehicles. More than classic cars, the museum is about style, design & stepping back into bygone eras. Peruse the Museum Gallery and its selection of handmade ceramics, eye-catching jewellery, beautiful prints, fascinating books and collectables.
Leaving Nelson behind, fly commercially to Wellington where we tour the acclaimed Te Papa Museum depicting the arts, culture and heritage of New Zealand. This evening is our farewell dinner at acclaimed restaurant, Logan Brown.
Overnight: Sofitel Wellington or similar
After breakfast, transfer to Wellington Airport. Say farewell to new friends and take away memories of a delightful Coastal New Zealand Sojourn.
About Sojourns
Our Sojourn programmes are short break journeys put together in conjunction with themes, events or experiences. These programmes range from cruising New Zealand’s North Islands to world-class sporting events and unique experiences throughout Australia and New Zealand.
About Single Traveller Journeys
We recognise the specific requirements of single travellers and that’s why a number of our journeys are single supplement free, affording you the benefit of your own single room, without any, or with significantly reduced extra cost. In fact, over 40% of our guests travel alone and return to Bill Peach Journeys again and again. In this way, you can enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow travellers during the day, along with the safety and security of travelling with an escorted group, but still retire to your own personal room in the evening. Note: The single supplement free offer cannot be taken in conjunction with any other offer.
Fully inclusive
This journey includes accommodation, all meals as specified, touring throughout, transfers, services of a dedicated Journey Director.
Coaches
The coaches that we use for the ground component of this journey are fully air-conditioned.
Pre/Post Tour
Flights from your home port to Christchurch / Wellington are not included in the journey price. Should you require flights to / from Christchurch / Wellington, we can provide a competitive quote on airfares and pre and post tour accommodation.
Level of Fitness Required – Easy Going
These journeys are not physically demanding unless you want them to be. They include easy guided walks, which are mainly on flat ground. There will be times when you are required to board a launch for shore excursions. You must be able to walk up to 1 km unaided and will not need any foreseen assistance throughout the journey. For all clients to fully enjoy this travel experience, excellent health and mobility is required by all.
We strongly urge you to consider the fitness rating before selecting your preferred journey, in respect for your fellow travellers. Bill Peach Journeys reserves the right to refuse travel to any client whose fitness level is below the recommended rating.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance to cover you against such things as personal illness or accident, cancellation, loss of baggage etc. Please make sure you carry a copy of your Travel Insurance policy with you at all times.
Terms and Conditions
Please note all prices are in Australian Dollars.
Please refer to the T&C’s for more information. Terms & Conditions (PDF)
*Conditions Apply: The Early Bird Offers are limited and apply if booked and paid in full by 12 August, 2024 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.
*The reduced single supplement for this journey is priced at $595, a significant reduction from the full value of the Single Supplement Charge for this journey which, if charged, would be $1,659. For those who book early enough, this may mean a $0 Single Supplement charge by taking advantage of Early Bird Savings.