Due to unscheduled maintenance between Blenheim and Picton, our train is unable to travel on a small section of the line while repairs take place. We are very pleased to advise that the Coastal Pacific service will go ahead as planned however a 25-minute portion of your journey, between Blenheim & Picton, will be replaced by Bus.
If you are starting your journey from Picton, you are able to check in at the train station as usual and will be advised by train staff on the location of our private bus transfer.
For those doing a day return from Christchurch, you will have your break time in Blenheim. The station is in the centre of town, so lots of time to explore.
Take an exhilarating journey into the heart of Mt Aspiring National Park, experiencing a thrilling jet boat ride amid breathtaking scenery. Walk amongst ancient forest unchanged for 80 million years and view the awe-inspiring locations of many Middle Earth movie scenes.
Leaving Queenstown, travel along one of the world's top 10 scenic drives to the settlement of Glenorchy at the head of Lake Wakatipu. Your journey continues with Dart River Jet Safaris, the only jet boat operator allowed on the Dart River.
Navigate the ever-changing shallow channels of the glacier-fed braided river system – complete with jet spins! Your expert driver will stop along the way to highlight the breathtaking scenery and discuss what makes this unique area so significant.
Explore New Zealand's unique vegetation and wildlife on a 30-minute guided bush walk on a rolling trail through ancient native beech forest. Guides will share their knowledge of the area's history, with stories of the greenstone trail and Maori legends.
Travel by four wheel-drive bus along a back-country route, where you'll learn more about this fascinating area and stop to view the spectacular scenery that has formed the epic backdrop for many international movies, including Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
At the end of your safari, take a break for lunch in Glenorchy before returning to Queenstown by coach.
Highlights:
Dart River jet boating
Guided forest walk
Back-country scenic bus tour
Useful Tips: Life jackets and wet weather gear are supplied for your jet safari; however warm clothing is advised. GPS commentary is available in Mandarin, Japanese and Spanish during the bush walk and coach sectors of your Wilderness Safari tour. Headsets are available free of charge but must be pre-booked to avoid disappointment.
