New Zealand Up Close & Unforgettable – Signature 17 Days
This is New Zealand, experienced gently, deeply, and beautifully.
Designed for travellers who value comfort, connection, and unforgettable scenery, this 17-day Signature Up Close journey invites you to slow down and truly experience the magic of Aotearoa. From sparkling coastlines and volcanic landscapes to alpine passes and serene lakes, every day brings a new “wow” moment—without feeling rushed.
Travel in style aboard some of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, cruise iconic waterways, and enjoy hand-picked experiences that bring you closer to nature, culture, and local flavour. Sip wine in Marlborough, marvel at whales off the Kaikōura coast, glide through Milford Sound’s towering fjords, and unwind in boutique and premium accommodation carefully selected for comfort and location.
What makes this journey special are the little moments—a sunset dinner cruise, a forest retreat meal, laughter shared over regional cuisine, and the joy of discovering places that linger in your heart long after the journey ends. With a perfect balance of guided sightseeing and free time, you can personalize each day to suit your pace and interests.
This isn’t just a holiday-it’s a collection of meaningful experiences, scenic wonders, and memories you’ll treasure forever.
Multiple departure in 2026-2027
18 Nov 2026 – 04 Dec 2026
- Twin share from $14,905 per person / from $18,460 per person sole use*
02 Dec 2026 – 17 Dec 2026
- Twin share from $14,905 per person / from $18,460 per person sole use*
09 Dec 2026 – 25 Dec 2026
- Twin share from $14,905 per person / from $18,460 per person sole use*
13 Jan 2027 – 29 Jan 2027
- Twin share from $14,905 per person / from $19,229 per person sole use*
20 Jan 2027 – 05 Feb 2027
- Twin share from $14,905 per person / from $19,229 per person sole use*
10 Feb 2027 – 26 Feb 2027
- Twin share from $14,905 per person / from $19,229 per person sole use*
24 Feb 2027 – 12 Mar 2027
- Twin share from $14,905 per person / from $19,229 per person sole use*
03 Mar 2027 – 19 Mar 2027
- Twin share from $14,905 per person / from $19,229 per person sole use*
07 Apr 2027 – 23 Apr 2027
- Twin share from $14,905 per person / from $19,229 per person sole use*
*Prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change without notice.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Explore Auckland
Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand’s City of Sails! Auckland is known for its multicultural hub of food, music, arts, and culture.
Your tour officially begins this evening, as you join your fellow travellers and Tour Director this evening for a welcome reception.
Meal: Dinner, Welcome Drink
Day 2 – Auckland – Hamilton
Your journey awaits as you join the Northern Explorer scenic train. Marvel at rural lush landscapes from the comfort of your scenic carriage. See the famous Hamilton Gardens for a picnic lunch before visiting Raglan for a stunning sunset dinner cruise.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 – Explore Hamilton
This morning you will depart for your next exciting excursion – Maungatautari Sanctuary Mountain.
Your expedition continues after a lunch stop in New Zealand’s “Kiwiana Capital”, Otorohanga.
Tonight, explore Hamilton’s riverside walks and shops on this free evening. Enjoy one of the many nearby restaurants as the sun sets over the Waikato River.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 4 – Hamilton – Tongariro National Park
Join the Northern Explorer train once again, today you’ll soar over icy mountain streams as you travel to Tongariro National Park, the home of three volcanic mountains. Enjoy a mini excursion up to Tūroa ski field. Here you’ll want to capture a panoramic photo of Middle Earth before descending into Ohakune.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5 – Tongariro National Park
Today is free for you to discover one of the region’s many exciting excursions. Choose from the optional activities on offer and personalise your perfect holiday. Perhaps you will hop aboard a rail cart journey or join a horse trekking experience that takes you along hills, mountains & rivers.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 6 – Tongariro National Park – Wellington
Your day begins with an elevated experience up the northern face of Mt Ruapehu for panoramic views of the volcanic landscape. Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, waving goodbye to Tongariro National Park, as you settle into your uber-comfortable seat. As you glide through rich green farmland and past dramatic coastlines, enjoy the picturesque Porirua Harbour as you arrive into Wellington.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 7 – Explore Wellington
Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining our Wellington City introduction tour and then head off to explore Cuba Street’s cafés, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Enjoy dinner tonight with your fellow travellers.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8 – Wellington – Picton
This morning you will sail to the South Island, crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry.
Settle down in the comfy seats in the Premium Lounge. Treat yourself to a mimosa and a hearty seafaring breakfast before arriving into Picton where you will be collected and experience a Marlborough Wine Tour.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 9 – Picton – Kaikoura
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.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 10 – Kaikoura – Christchurch
Today will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience of whale watching! Enjoy today’s thrill of an up-close encounter with wildlife. Gather again for the next leg of your journey. Late afternoon, board the Coastal Pacific for the Scenic Plus experience, treating yourself to unparalleled vistas as you glide along the coastline.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 11 – Explore Christchurch
Today you are free to explore the museums, Riverside Markets, Punting on the Avon, Gondola and botanical gardens. This evening, you will rejoin your fellow travellers for a special dinner on Christchurch’s historic dinner tram. Enjoy a wonderful circuit of the city while indulging in seasonal cuisine.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12 – Christchurch – Hokitika
The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine journey through the Southern Alps, emerging in the West Coast! Once you arrive on the West Coast, a private coach will take you even further off the beaten track to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks before finishing your day in Hokitika.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 13 – Hokitika – Franz Josef
This morning, you’ll start your West Coast adventure by visiting the elevated West Coast Tree Top Walk before continuing your journey south to Franz Josef. Join your group for an impeccable highlight meal at Te Waonui Forest Retreat.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 14 – Franz Josef – Queenstown
Today you will explore the Haast Pass. While aboard an exciting river boat and private coach, marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and river and mountain peaks. Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore the local fruit hotspot – Mrs. Jones’ Fruit Stall before exploring the cobblestone streets of Arrowtown.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 15 – Queenstown – Milford Sound – Queenstown
Make sure you charge your camera before you set off on today’s adventure. Today you’re heading to Milford Sound to be engulfed in towering peaks and waltz through plunging valleys. Aboard the cruise, you will meander down the sound to experience the rumble of Bowen and Stirling Falls as they plummet from glacial hanging valleys.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 16 – Explore Queenstown
Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active or relaxed as you’d like. Whether it’s exploring Walter Peak on a horse trekking adventure, hopping on the gondola for inspiring views, or sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses. Enjoy a ‘final hurrah’ this evening as you board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise, dinner, and show.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 17 – Depart Queenstown
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers. A departure airport transfer to Queenstown Airport is included.
Meal: Breakfast
* Please note that tour itineraries are subject to change at any time by the tour company and are not guaranteed
Highlights
- 16 nights in premium 4 to 5 star hotels with breakfast daily
- Private transport throughout with an experienced tour director
- Ideal for travellers seeking a premium, immersive New Zealand journey
This is New Zealand, experienced gently, deeply, and beautifully.
Designed for travellers who value comfort, connection, and unforgettable scenery, this 17-day Signature Up Close journey invites you to slow down and truly experience the magic of Aotearoa. From sparkling coastlines and volcanic landscapes to alpine passes and serene lakes, every day brings a new “wow” moment—without feeling rushed.
Travel in style aboard some of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, cruise iconic waterways, and enjoy hand-picked experiences that bring you closer to nature, culture, and local flavour. Sip wine in Marlborough, marvel at whales off the Kaikōura coast, glide through Milford Sound’s towering fjords, and unwind in boutique and premium accommodation carefully selected for comfort and location.
What makes this journey special are the little moments—a sunset dinner cruise, a forest retreat meal, laughter shared over regional cuisine, and the joy of discovering places that linger in your heart long after the journey ends. With a perfect balance of guided sightseeing and free time, you can personalize each day to suit your pace and interests.
This isn’t just a holiday-it’s a collection of meaningful experiences, scenic wonders, and memories you’ll treasure forever.
Inclusions
- 16 Nights in Premium 4-5 Star Hotels
- 16 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 10 Dinners & 5 Meals On-Train
- Private Transport with Experienced Tour Director
- Small Group Tour with max. 20 guests
- Northern Explorer Train with Scenic Plus Premium Upgrade
- Interislander Ferry with Premium Lounge Upgrade
- Coastal Pacific Train with Scenic Plus Premium Upgrade
- TranzAlpine Train with Scenic Plus Premium Upgrade
- Raglan Dinner Cruise
- Sanctuary Mountain Custom Wildlife Experience
- Zealong Tea Estate Tour, Tea Ceremony & Signature High Tea
- Waitomi Caves Glowworm Tour
- Lunch at Lauren's Lavender with time to explore
- City Tour of Wellington
- Marlborough Wine Tour Custom Experience
- Omaka Aviation Heritage Museum
- Paua Pearl Tour with Paua Tasting
- Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura
- Guided Pounamu Experience including Hokitika Gorge Walk
- Haast River Safari
- Exclusive West Coast Wildlife Centre Tour with Guided Kiwi Walk
- Milford Sound Day Tour and Cruise
- Cruise Lake Wakatipu on TSS Earnslaw Steamship
Exclusions
- Airfares
- Travel Insurance
FAQs
16 Nights in Premium 4-5 Star Hotels
How long is the tour?
The tour is 17 days and 16 nights.
Where does the tour start and finish?
The tour starts in Auckland and finishes in Queenstown.
What type of tour is this?
This is a guided rail and coach tour operated by Great Journeys NZ, combining scenic rail journeys, private coach transportation and guided experiences.
How many guests are in the group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 20 guests.
What accommodation is included?
The tour includes 16 nights of 4–5 star accommodation.
What meals are included?
The tour includes 16 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 7 dinners.
Is a Tour Director included?
Yes. The tour includes private transportation with an experienced Tour Director throughout the journey.
Which scenic train journeys are included?
The tour includes three Scenic Plus rail experiences:
- Northern Explorer
- Coastal Pacific
- TranzAlpine
Is the Interislander Ferry included?
Yes. The Interislander Ferry crossing between the North and South Islands is included, with access to the Premium Lounge.
What experiences are included in the tour?
Included experiences include Hamilton Gardens with a guided tour and picnic, a Raglan dinner cruise, Sanctuary Mountain wildlife experience, glowworm caves in Hamilton, a Marlborough wine tour, a Kaikōura wildlife experience, Christchurch historic tramway, Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, the West Coast Tree Top Walk, Haast River Safari, Milford Sound cruise and a TSS Earnslaw Steamship cruise on Lake Wakatipu.
Is whale watching included?
Yes. A whale-watching experience in Kaikōura is included.
Is Milford Sound included?
Yes. The tour includes a day trip to Milford Sound and a cruise through the fiord.
Provided by: ANZCROFine Print
Deposit and payment policy: A non-refundable deposit of $3,000 per person is required at time of booking, with final payment due 60 days prior to departure.
Cancellation and refund policy: You have the right to cancel your Tour any point, however, the following cancellation charges will apply:
- 0 – 45 days before departure, 100% of Tour payment
- 46 – 75 days before departure, 60% of Tour payment
- 76 days before departure, 20% of Tour payment
Any other terms and conditions: Offer is valid for bookings made from 01 January 2026 – 31 January 2026 for travel on set departures from September 2026 – April 2027. Offer exclusive to Travel at 60. All pricing featured is per person and is expressed in Australian Dollars. Tour is operated by Great Rail Journeys New Zealand and subject to their conditions including itinerary changes, operation capabilities and track maintenance.
Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.
Enquire Now
Speak with our travel experts and get your personalised quote.
