Christchurch to Auckland by train: A scenic journey across New Zealand
As our time in Aotearoa, New Zealand was coming to an end, I realised the grave mistake we had made. We only had two weeks of leave from work, and it wasn’t nearly enough time to scratch the surface of this stunning country. However, Lonely Planet’s Amazing Train Journeys had prepared me for an alternative. Taking the scenic trains from Christchurch to Auckland, with a ferry crossing in between, would give us a glimpse of what the rest of the island was like. That’s how we found ourselves onboard the Coastal Pacific train heading northbound towards Picton.
This Christchurch to Auckland train journey combines two of New Zealand’s most scenic rail routes with a Cook Strait ferry crossing, offering one of the most immersive ways to experience both islands.
Coastal Pacific Train along Kaikoura Coast
Journey at a Glance
Total duration: 2–3 days (including a Wellington stopover)
Distance: ~1,000 km
Cost: ~NZ$670 vs ~NZ$200 for flying
Best time to travel: October–April for clearer weather
Booking: Reserve 2–3 months ahead for best prices; book directly with Great Journeys New Zealand
The Coastal Pacific Train: Christchurch to Picton
Having previously driven this route as part of our road trip, it felt like returning to a familiar place. Starting in Christchurch and hugging the coast towards Picton, the landscape shifts from rolling hills to the wild Kaikōura coastline, before opening out into the sprawling vineyards of Blenheim. It’s a wonderful introduction to this part of the South Island.
The train is designed for sightseeing, with large panoramic windows allowing you to take in the scenery from the comfort of your seat. We sat on the right-hand side of the train (A/B seats), which I’d recommend for coast lovers like me. The seats themselves are large and comfortable, making the journey feel relaxed rather than rushed.
That said, you’ll likely spend much of the journey in the open-air viewing carriage — easily the highlight of the experience. Being able to see the landscape without a window between you and the view is thrilling, and it makes for fantastic photo opportunities. Local commentary runs throughout the journey, offering insight into the history of the places you pass through and giving advance warning of upcoming scenic highlights, allowing you time to move to the open-air carriage when it really matters.
Amenities are available, including an onboard café. You can also book the Scenic Plus coach, where a dining experience is included in the fare. You’re welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks, but if you fancy a tipple, you can purchase alcohol from the café.
On arrival in Picton, there’s enough time to stretch your legs before making your way to the Interislander Ferry for the crossing to Wellington.
Coastal Pacific Train along Blenheim
Coastal Pacific at a glance
Journey time: Christchurch to Picton – 5h 40m (departs 7:00am)
Best seats: A/B for sea views (northbound), C/D (southbound)
Cost: From NZ$289
Frequency: Daily – northbound mornings, southbound afternoons
Best for: Photography lovers and first-time visitors to New Zealand
Look out for: Wildlife around Kaikōura, including seals and occasionally whales
Crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry
On a clear day, this is one of the most picturesque ferry journeys in the world, as the ship glides through the Marlborough Sounds before entering the Cook Strait. Unfortunately for us, the weather turned quickly during our three-hour crossing to Wellington.
Despite the wet and windy conditions, I did brave a trip outside as we passed through the notoriously choppy Cook Strait. For the rest of the journey, we retreated to the lounge, watching the landscape shift from moody blues and greys to the outline of Wellington Harbour.
Three and a half hours later, we arrived in Wellington, where we stayed for two nights before continuing north. During our time in the capital, we explored museums, wandered through the Botanic Gardens, and took a ride on the iconic cable car.
Cook Strait
Interislander Ferry at a glance
Journey time: Picton to Wellington – 3h 30m
Cost: From NZ$80
Frequency: Multiple daily sailings
Look out for: Whales and dolphins in the Marlborough Sounds
Pro tip: Visit the upper viewing deck, even in bad weather
The Northern Explorer: Wellington to Auckland
One of the reasons we spent two nights in Wellington was to align with the Northern Explorer’s schedule. This iconic scenic train operates in one direction every other day, departing Wellington at 7:55am and taking around 11 hours to reach Auckland.
While I’d imagined clear blue skies, the weather had other plans. Had conditions been better, we would have seen the volcanic peaks of Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Ruapehu , just as pictured in the book. Even so, the journey delivered incredible views of lush fern forests and classic “Lord of the Rings” landscapes.
There are also remarkable engineering highlights along this route, including the Hāpuawhenua Viaduct. As the train crossed it, I briefly held my breath, convinced we might not make it across. Of course, we did, the moment only added to the drama of the journey.
Although much of this leg traverses the heart of the North Island, there are sections with surprising sea views. We sat on the left-hand side of the train for the best vistas, though the open-air viewing carriage is again available for uninterrupted views.
Travelling by train to Auckland made me truly appreciate the scale of Aotearoa and how much there still is to discover. I couldn’t have imagined a better way to conclude our trip.
Although the train journey was longer and more expensive than flying, but I would choose it every time. It allowed us to watch the country unfold mile by mile. If you have the time and the budget, taking the train from Christchurch to Auckland isn’t just transport , it’s one of New Zealand’s most spectacular travel experiences.
Little did we know that just weeks later, the COVID-19 pandemic would change the world and close New Zealand’s borders for years. That knowledge only deepened my gratitude for every moment we experienced on those rails.
Lord of the Rings site
Northern Explorer at a glance
Journey time: Wellington to Auckland – 11 hours (departs 7:55am)
Cost: From NZ$299
Best seats: Left-hand side (northbound)
Don’t miss: The Raurimu Spiral 🌀 — subtle, but a fascinating engineering feat
Train going over Hāpuawhenua Viaduct
Blue Trainer Travel Tips
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Blue Trainer Travel Tips 〰️
Early start: The Coastal Pacific departs Christchurch at 7am, so maybe don’t go too hard at the Tramway Restaurant the night before.
Luggage: Large bags are stored in a separate luggage compartment, so keep essentials with you.
Ferry cabins: Book a private cabin on the Interislander if you want proper rest.
Food onboard: All trains serve food, and the Scenic Plus coach includes a full meal at your seat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct train from Christchurch to Auckland?
No. The journey requires taking the Coastal Pacific to Picton, the Interislander Ferry to Wellington, and the Northern Explorer to Auckland.
How long does the entire journey take?
Around 20 hours of travel spread over 2–3 days, with an overnight stop in Wellington recommended.
How much does it cost compared to flying?
Approximately NZ$670 for the full journey, compared to around NZ$200 for a direct flight. The experience, however, is incomparable.
Which side of the train should I sit on?
Coastal Pacific: Right-hand side (A/B) for ocean views northbound
Northern Explorer: Left-hand side for the best views northbound
When is the best time to travel?
October to April offers the clearest weather and best chance of seeing Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Ruapehu.
