The Coastal Pacific is a celebrated scenic rail journey that links Christchurch and Picton across the South Island’s eastern coast. For around five hours, the train threads alongside the Pacific Ocean, through vineyards, past limestone cliffs and alongside rocky surf beaches dotted with seals and seabirds.
From Christchurch, the train glides through the expansive Canterbury Plains and into Marlborough’s vine covered valleys. It then follows the rugged Kaikōura coast, where mountains meet the sea in breathtaking fashion. Passengers pass under cliffs, cross iconic bridges such as the Okarahia Viaduct, and ride through tunnels carved into coastal rock, with stories of engineering and earthquake resilience unfolding through GPS triggered commentary.
The train uses modern air suspended AK class carriages with large panoramic windows and open air viewing carriages for fresh coastal air and immersive views. Travellers can pause in the cafe carriage for refreshments or step into the open air carriage to feel the breeze against the sea. By the time Picton arrives, the experience will have woven together landscape, culture and discovery into something unforgettable.
Scenic Comfort and Fresh Air
The train frames this journey in comfort and immersion. Air suspended AK class carriages glide smoothly across rails, while large panoramic windows bring vineyards, ocean and mountains into clear view. For a deeper connection to the landscape, step into the open air viewing carriage — salty breezes, seabird songs and the spray of surf bring the coastal terrain to life like nothing else can. Travellers often pause there just to breathe in the wild beauty.
Refreshments and Cafe Moments
The cafe carriage is a relaxed spot to enjoy local flavours while scenery unfolds. Expect a mix of hot drinks, light meals, fresh pastries and wine, all regionally inspired. No formal tables here; guests carry their food to a seat or linger near the counter. It’s unpretentious comfort, served trackside in motion.
Storytelling and Insight
You don’t just see the landscape , you understand it. GPS triggered commentary speaks in multiple languages, detailing local geology, the lines carved through cliffs, tales of the Kaikōura earthquake and vineyard heritage. Screens echo the narrative with maps and visual highlights, guiding eyes to key moments of awe and intrigue.
A Coastal Journey to Reflect On
What makes the Coastal Pacific sing is how it brings together ocean, mountain and human endeavour. Each bend reveals another coastal vignette — a seal colony, a dramatic beach, a sunrise over vineyard hills. Whether sitting with coffee or leaning into a sea breeze, you leave feeling rooted in this land’s story rather than just passing through.
Price & Availability
All bookings are subject to availability at the time of your request. Once we receive your booking enquiry, we’ll confirm availability within 24 hours.
Prices are quoted in Australian Dollars (AUD). If your package includes services priced in other currencies, currency conversion will be processed at midnight (AEST) each day. Please be aware that due to the constantly changing nature of exchange rates and supplier pricing, all package prices are subject to change until full payment is received and booking is confirmed.
Self-Guided Packages – Terms & Conditions
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed for travellers who want the freedom to explore independently, without the hassle of planning every detail. Each package follows a tried-and-tested itinerary that includes a combination of pre-booked services, such as accommodation and transport, and optional group tours or private experiences. You’ll have the flexibility to discover each destination at your own pace, with the confidence of having essential logistics taken care of and access to local support if needed.
Accommodation Flexibility
We understand that every traveller has different needs, so our itineraries offer flexibility in accommodation. You can choose from a range of hotels, from 3-star options to luxury 5-star properties, in most locations. If your first-choice hotel is not available at the time of booking, we will offer you an alternative of similar standard, quality, and location.
Travellers are welcome to customise their accommodation preferences before confirming their booking. If you’re unsure about the best options for your travel style, our team is happy to recommend alternatives.
Booking On Request
All packages are offered on request basis. In most cases, a deposit may be required before we can secure accommodation and services.
Once we receive your deposit and booking enquiry, we aim to confirm your package within 24 hours (longer if weekends or public holidays apply).
If your preferred travel dates are not available, we’ll suggest the closest alternatives or offer a full refund of your deposit.
Dynamic Pricing
Many of our accommodation providers and local suppliers use dynamic pricing models, which means prices fluctuate depending on factors such as demand, travel seasons, and availability.
Our listed “from” prices represent the lowest available rates based on low season travel with full availability. When you request a quote for your preferred travel dates, we’ll provide an accurate, up-to-date price based on availability at the time of quoting.
Prices may vary between the time we provide a quote and when you confirm your booking. Should there be any price differences, we will notify you before final confirmation and payment.
Itinerary Order & Availability
The order of your itinerary, including accommodation, tours, and transport, may be adjusted to secure the best availability and ensure a smooth travel experience. While we strive to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, changes may be necessary, particularly during peak travel periods or when bookings are made close to your departure date.
For bookings made well in advance and outside of peak seasons, itinerary changes are uncommon. Any adjustments will be communicated to you in advance and are made with the aim of maintaining or improving the overall experience.
The final itinerary—including the order of your activities and accommodations—will be confirmed after your booking is secured.
Payment Terms
• A deposit may be required to secure your booking.
• Full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to your scheduled arrival date.
• If additional deposits are required by certain hotels or service providers, we will advise you at the time of confirmation.
• Your booking is not confirmed until full payment is received.
• Payments can be made via direct deposit, credit card, or other approved methods (merchant fees may apply).
Changes & Cancellations
• Your deposit is non-refundable once your booking is confirmed.
• Changes to your booking are permitted up to 45 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 45 days of arrival will incur a 100% cancellation fee, unless otherwise stated in your booking confirmation.
• Any rail tickets and flight tickets included in your package are non-refundable once issued and confirmed. These are subject to airline and supplier policies, which may include strict cancellation and amendment terms.
• We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against unforeseen changes or cancellations.
Additional Information
• Please review visa requirements, health advice, and local regulations for your chosen destination prior to travel.
• We recommend allowing extra time for processing visas or travel documentation, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all bookings to cover unexpected events, including illness, cancellations, or delays.
If you’d rather chat, give one of our Travelcation Experts a call today to begin crafting your bespoke holiday experience.