Coastal Pacific Train - Great Journey's of New Zealand
With the sea stretching to the horizon in the east and the Kaikōura mountains stretching to the sky in the west, the Coastal Pacific journey between Picton and Christchurch is one of the most astonishingly beautiful in New Zealand.
The Coastal Pacific is a seasonal train, running from Spring through to Autumn. It runs once daily taking just over 5 hours from the Christchurch Railway Station to Picton, and then another 5 hours for a return journey home.
Whale watching is a must-do Kiwi tourism experience. And the home of whale watching is the coastal village of Kaikōura; it's the ideal spot to experience this wild coast teaming with marine mammals and a stop on the Coastal Pacific train. The Whale Watch crew have daily trips in search of whales and other marine wildlife such as dolphins and seals.
The Coastal Pacific train can be an ideal option for those wanting to visit Kaikōura in a day, with enough time for whale watching and a quick bite to eat.
Better still, with the flexi or flexi-plus pass, you have the freedom to make as many or as few stops as you like. The railway station is conveniently located central to the Kaikōura township, meaning that when it comes to getting around, most places can be reached by foot. To get from the train to your accommodation, it is worth asking your hotelier for their recommendation (often they'll offer to pick you up!). Otherwise, Kaikōura Shuttles are the go to option for taxi services and transfers.
So whether your journey is from Christchurch to Kaikōura or Picton to Kaikōura, stopping off (or staying put) at this South Island pocket of paradise could be just the adventure you’re after.