Includes:

• A RETURN trip Blenheim - Kaikōura - Blenheim on the Train
• Approx. 10 hours duration

Schedule:

• 8:15am Train departs Blenheim Station
• 11:15am Train arrives at Kaikōura Station
• 6:50pm Train departs Kaikōura Station
• 9:20pm Train arrives at Blenheim Station

Price: 

Adult Return Trip NZ$199

Child (3-14yrs) Return Trip NZ$149

Family Pass (2 adults & 2 children) NZ$649

Infant (free) sitting on a lap

The Journey:

Enjoy a heritage train experience from the heart of the Marlborough winelands to the coastal town of Kaikoura. Your journey is powered by the vintage red and white, classic Da1431 locomotive to haul our original renovated Victorian carriages.

Departing from Blenheim, traverse the rolling southern hills of Marlborough, carving a line through the Dashwood Pass and bursting onto the beautiful Awatere Valley with the peak of the majestic sentinel, Mount Tapuae-o-Uenuku standing guard at the rear. Continue across the historic Awatere River railroad bridge to the quintessential country town of Seddon.

Beyond Seddon, the landscapes then open up to greet the Pacific Coastline for the journey to Kaikoura, a town acclaimed for its abundant marine wildlife, famed resident sperm whale population and dramatic mountain backdrops. Towering over Kaikoura, the ‘Guardians of the Seas’ - the mountains of the Southern Alps, rise majestically from the deep trenches of the Southern Ocean with the railway line wedged in between.

Of particular interest is the remnants of the 2016 Kaikōura 7.8 magnitude earthquake which has left clear evidence of its sheer power and destructive capabilities, along this breathtaking stretch of shoreline. This is equally matched by the impressive and incredible engineering solutions that restored the state highway and railway in record time.

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

Onboard:

Step aboard the Marlborough Flyer and settle into a journey that feels a world away from modern travel.

Behind the red and white classic DA locomotive sits a collection of beautifully renovated heritage carriages, each carrying the character, craftsmanship and charm of rail travel from another era. Polished timber, classic seating and open-end balconies create an atmosphere that is as much about the experience onboard as it is about the destination ahead.

As the train travels south through vineyards, valleys, open country and coastline, passengers can move to the carriage balconies for a unique viewing experience along one of New Zealand’s most memorable rail routes. It is relaxed, nostalgic and wonderfully scenic, offering the kind of travel experience that turns the journey itself into the highlight.

Whether you are joining us for the Kaikōura races or simply want to experience a special heritage rail journey, the Marlborough Flyer offers a timeless way to travel. Not rushed. Not ordinary. Just a beautifully restored train, stunning South Island scenery, and a day to remember.