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New Zealand
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New Zealand Holidays

If the North and South Islands that comprise New Zealand were any more beautiful it would be necessary to invent new superlatives to describe them. Yet guests who join Great Rail Journeys in order to explore 'God's own country' on an escorted rail tour will soon realise improving upon New Zealand's film-star looks is an impossibility.

Dense rainforests, cascading waterfalls, mirror-like lakes, breathtaking mountains and paradisiacal beaches are merely the appetisers for the wonders that New Zealand offers. These and a wealth of fascinating towns and cities, the indigenous Maori culture, exotic wildlife and the country's cuisine add up to an unforgettable rail holiday.

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ClassicClassic
Fiordland National ParkFiordland National ParkFiordland National ParkFiordland National ParkFiordland National Park
Grand Tour of New Zealand
4.5 stars(65 reviews)
2025SepOctNovDec
2026JanFebMarOctNovDec

Discover New Zealand's dazzling cities, extraordinary national parks, spectacular mountains and breathtaking Fiordland on this epic tour of the North and South Islands. This fabulous tour combines the greatest features of this wonderful country in one holiday: superb railways, glorious landscapes and the warm and welcoming Māori culture.

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21 days from
£6,299 pp
per person
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Our customers love our New Zealand tours
Grand Tour of New Zealand
25/Apr
Janet Baker
5 stars
“Well organised whistle stop trip of both islands. We had a fantastic tour manager, Kay Burtenshaw, who was very conscientious and informed us daily of our schedule and she dealt efficiently with any situations that arose. The two local coach drivers were our guides imparting lots of knowledge/information as we travelled along...
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New Zealand Trains

Discover the fantastic railways of New Zealand. It should come as no surprise that we love railways and we know many of you do too! That's why our tours feature some of the most iconic railways and trains on the continent.

TranzAlpine
TranzAlpine
Glenbrook Vintage Railway
Glenbrook Vintage
Coastal Pacific
Coastal Pacific
Taieri Gorge Railway
Taieri Gorge

Visiting New Zealand with Great rail Journeys

When you join Great Rail Journeys for an escorted rail tour of New Zealand you can be sure of two things: firstly that you are in for an exciting and pleasureable adventure of a lifetime and, secondly, that you're obtaining exceptional value for money. Since all flights, rail, coach and ferry travel, hotel accommodation, an itinerary filled with wonderful guided tours and sightseeing visits and a selection of meals are already included in the cost of your New Zealand train holiday, all you'll need is your spending money.

Tranz Alpine Train

You'll also benefit from the services of a friendly, experienced and helpful Tour Manager who will be on hand throughout your trip to assist with any requests, answer questions and dispense information, advice and recommendations relating to the places you'll visit.

You'll stay in hotels that have been specially selected by us on the basis of their location and value, and which offer the highest standards of comfort, service and guest facilities. Where possible we prefer to use local, family-owned hotels for their preferential service and relaxed environment. In fact, with all of the arrangements taken care of on your behalf, you're entirely free to sit back, relax and enjoy the very best of New Zealand by train.

New Zealand traveller's guide

Located approximately 1,500 kilometres east of Australia in the South Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is roughly equivalent in size to Great Britain yet has only around four million inhabitants. The Māori people were first to inhabit the islands, around a thousand years ago. The seventeenth-century Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, after whom Tasmania is named, was the first European to sight New Zealand, but the British were the first to colonise the islands after they were mapped by Captain James Cook in 1769. The legacy of these European visitors remains in some of New Zealand's place names and a wealth of colonial architecture.

Hokitika Gorge

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to visit New Zealand?

British citizens do not need a visa for short visits (up to six months). However, you must apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before you travel. There is also an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) that you need to pay alongside your NZeTA application. Check the official New Zealand immigration website for the latest requirements.

What is the best time of year to visit New Zealand?

New Zealand is a fantastic destination year-round. The summer months (December to February) are ideal for beaches and outdoor activities, while spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

What is the currency in New Zealand?

The currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available.

Is New Zealand safe for travellers?

Yes, New Zealand is considered one of the safest travel destinations in the world. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions, such as securing your belongings and following local advice when exploring remote areas.

What is the weather like in New Zealand?

New Zealand's climate varies by region. The North Island tends to be warmer, while the South Island experiences colder winters. The weather can change quickly, so it's best to pack for all conditions.

What activities should I not miss in New Zealand?

Popular experiences include:

  • Visiting Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park
  • Exploring the geothermal wonders of Rotorua
  • Enjoying the beaches and wineries in Bay of Islands and Marlborough

How many people go on one of your holidays?

Great Rail Journeys is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted holidays. Our group sizes vary between tours, but are our ranges are usually a good indicator of what to expect.

For our Discoveries range, you'll be in groups with an average of 30-35 travellers and a maximum of 40. If opting for our Classic collection, you'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. Our Landmark holidays are where you'll find our smallest group sizes, starting from as low as 16 travellers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

*Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

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