Coastal Pacific Train
The Coastal Pacific train journey from Picton to Christchurch is wonderful way to view the South Island’s eastern coastline and its hinterland of bush clad mountains and alpine scenery .
The Coastal Pacific connects with the Interislander ferry and Sounds Air flights ( es , Kiwis can do logistics!) and operates daily between September and May , departing Picton at 1.15 pm and arriving into Christchurch at 6.33 pm . In the opposite direction , the train departs Christchurch at 7.00am and reaches Picton at 12.20 pm
This is a great way to “break up” a self- drive tour – you can pick up your South Island hire vehicle in Christchurch or take the Tranz Alpine train over to Greymouth and pick up from a hire depot there.
What our travellers enjoyed about the Coastal Pacific Train…
- Fantastic views of coastline and hinterland of the mountains
- The open viewing carriage at the back – perfect for photographs!
- The freedom to have a break from driving and be able to really take in the amazing scenery