For train bookings beyond June 2025 to June 2026, contact us at info@newzealandtravelteam.com.
An Immersive Rail Experience
We have some exciting news for your upcoming journey, we have made changes to our onboard audio commentary which is now available via our new infotainment app.
The infotainment app allows all audio commentary and stories to be available at a touch of a button via your phone.
Our commentary has been upgraded and revised and we are excited to have it available for our passengers.
The app is easy to use, and if you have any issues, please talk to the staff on the train, they will help you to troubleshoot any issues.
Please make sure you bring your own device, USB charger and headphones to enjoy the audio commentary.
We recommend you download the free “Great Journeys New Zealand” app in advance.
Some sections of the app won’t be available until you are on the train, but once connected to the Wifi on the train you’ll will be able to see the full content.
Discover the fascinating history of Christchurch on a half day city sightseeing tour. Take in the sights of the central city and its surrounds and see how this beautiful city is recovering from the devastating 2011 earthquake.
Step on board a classic open top double decker for a one-hour bus tour around central Christchurch. Your guide will tell you about the history of the city from its pioneering days to the present day. You will view some of the areas affected by the earthquakes, see how Christchurch is preserving some of its iconic heritage buildings and learn about the latest plans for restoration of the inner city.
Experience the natural beauty of Hagley Park, the Avon River and Botanic Gardens, as well as the recently reopened New Regent Street with its distinctive Spanish Mission style architecture, and the Re:START mall, an innovative development created entirely out of shipping containers!
Following your Christchurch city tour, we head towards the picturesque seaside village of Sumner where there is time to explore the beach and its interesting rock formations. From there we travel up the Port Hills to the historic Sign of the Takahe, a listed heritage building where you will enjoy panoramic views overlooking Christchurch City, the port of Lyttelton, the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps.
On the return journey we visit Mona Vale, one of Christchurch's most spectacular gardens. Take a leisurely stroll around the park and see why Christchurch is known as 'the Garden City'.
Useful tips: The first hour of this tour is by open top double decker bus with covered seating available downstairs. The last two hours of the tour are in a closed top double decker vehicle.
Tour details
Half day tour
Operates daily
Departs and returns: Rolleston Avenue
Tour includes
Hagley Park, Avon River and Botanic Gardens
Christchurch Cathedral and new Cardboard Cathedral
Bridge of Remembrance
Canterbury Museum and Arts Centre
Re: START shipping container mall