Kaikoura

THE JOURNEY

Enjoy a heritage steam train experience from the heart of the Marlborough winelands to the coastal town of Kaikoura, known for its abundant marine wildlife, famed resident sperm whale population and dramatic mountain vistas. Follow the ‘Guardians of the Seas’ – the mountains of the Southern Alps – that rise majestically from the deep trenches of the Southern Ocean along the journey.

Hauled by Steam Locomotive, Ab608,  between Picton-Kaikoura and powered by 1950’s classic DA locomotive between Kaikoura-Christchurch.

South of Kaikoura, the train continues to hug the coast threading it’s way in and out of a myriad of 19 tunnels, on either side of Kaikoura, all carved out of the cliff faces, before turning inland via the vast Canterbury Plains for the final stretch towards the main South Island city of Christchurch.

The train has the advantage of balconies at both ends of each carriage which enables passengers a convenient viewing position along the scenic journey.

Train Times & Dates: (click on the date to book)

• 6th April 2024: SOLD OUT (same day return) train departs Blenheim @ 07:50am; train arrives Kaikoura @ 11:10am; train departs Kaikoura @ 12:10pm; train arrives in Kekerengu @ 13:10pm; train departs Kekerengu @ 14:10pm; train arrives Blenheim @ 15:50pm.
• 26th April 2024: SOLD OUT (same day return) train departs Blenheim @ 07:50am; train arrives Kaikoura @ 11:10am; train departs Kaikoura @ 12:10pm; train arrives in Kekerengu @ 13:10pm; train departs Kekerengu @ 14:10pm; train arrives Blenheim @ 15:50pm.

Please note carriage seating is pre-allocated. If you would like to be seated with friends or family that are not included on your booking ie. they have booked separately, then please add their names in the Note section when completing your booking.

Only fully collapsible, smaller sized baby strollers, or walkers, can be transported on board the train.