Coastal Pacific Train Journey from Christchurch to Picton
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Experience and immerse yourself in the rugged coastal architecture of New Zealand. The Coastal Pacific travels breathtakingly close to the Pacific Ocean, where the roaring, windblown sea meets enormous bush-clad mountains.
Additional Info
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if travelling with a wheelchair
Please arrive at least 20 minutes prior to scheduled departure and check in at the station to receive your boarding pass
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
One way Rail Journey
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
All taxes, fees and handling charges
GPS-triggered audio commentary
Excess luggage charges (where applicable)
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and drinks (available to purchase)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
What To Expect
With steeply soaring mountains on one side and the sweeping Pacific Ocean on the other, find yourself immersed in the rugged coastal architecture of the east coast of the South Island. Surrounded by a myriad of sea and birdlife, you’ll hug 98km of untouched coastline, winding your way through lush native bush, charming coastal towns and dramatic seascapes. While on board enjoy the journey in award winning world class carriages with specially designed seats. Awaken your senses in the open air viewing decks or sit back and enjoy the GPS triggered audio commentary available through headphones at every seat. All trains have a licensed café carriage providing snacks and light meals (at own expense).
Options
Scenic Plus
Scenic Plus
Includes Food and beverage
Scenic
Christchurch to Picton: 5.5 hour train journey from Christchurch to Picton
Reviews
85 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
train experience
Anja F,
Oct 27, 2025
- Viator
5.00I had a great spot by the window and really enjoyed the beautiful scenery. From green mountains to the beautiful ocean, everything was there.
great train ride
David J,
Oct 24, 2025
- Viator
5.00train was smooth efficient staff and scenery excellent. departed on time food and beverage choice good
Capstone part of our trip!
Bradley R,
Apr 13, 2025
- Viator
5.00This scenic train was the highlight of our two week adventure in Australia/New Zealand. A week organized train with nice comfortable cabins with WiFi to boot. Great coffee and drinks for sale to make the journey even more enjoyable. Being able to see how untouched NZ is from the rear scenic cabin is a sight to behold. We journeyed from Christchurch to Marlborough for winery tours and would highly recommend this tour option on your journey.
Delightful, relaxing journey.....
Angus F,
Apr 2, 2025
- Viator
5.00A delightfully relaxing way to travel up the east coast to Blenheim and Picton. On board staff are friendly and helpful; refreshments are available to buy on board. Best of all are the views you can enjoy on both ocean and inland sides of the train, and from the open air viewing platform. The train slows to allow full appreciation of the leaping dolphins and basking sea lions. We loved it.
Smooth, comfortable,...
Rodney H,
Mar 10, 2025
- Viator
5.00Smooth, comfortable, scenic the whole trip, and on time, a great experience and relaxing, food and drinks 🍸 , coffee was excellent, all leftovers were collected so no rubbish left for you to get rid of .
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Operated by Great Journeys New Zealand