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Among the many charms that New Zealand offers to its visitors, a scenic train journey is a prominent one. Holidaymakers who are securing their tickets on flights arriving in New Zealand and wish to experience something unique should definitely try one of these train routes.
New Zealand is brimming with gorgeous views, abundance of natural beauty and a myriad of entertainment. People who are booking flights’ tickets to this country are sure to be delighted with the experience they will have here. Among many attractions, a train journey through gorgeous locales has a significant place. Here are just three of the most scenic train routes that offer an unforgettable experience of sightseeing.
The TranzAlpine [Christchurch- Greymouth]
If there is only one train journey you can take in New Zealand then it should be this one. Arguably the most gorgeous train route in New Zealand, the TranzAlpine offers wonderful sightseeing to the visitors, who are investing on flights to reach here. The lush farmlands of the Canterbury greet the travellers first and then it traverses the spectacular Waimakariri River, panoramic views are simply breathtaking. The TranzAlpine train also crosses the magnificent Southern Alps. The well-defined landscape of alpines is a jaw dropping view here. Buying tickets on TranzAlpine is very convenient. Travellers can simply choose the date and requirement of the travel and once after confirmation of the purchase, the tickets will be emailed. In the train, one way and the tabled group – both kinds of seating are included. The journey is about 139 miles and takes four and half hours but at any time of the entire journey travellers will not feel that they are not being entertained. There is lot to see on the route. Whether you have a passion for photography or not, bringing camera is a wise thing here as there will be numerous moments in the journey you will want to capture forever.
The Northern Explorer [Auckland-Wellington]
The Northern Explorer train takes the passengers to one of the most outstanding range of panoramic views that will remain etched in their hearts. The train travels through the lush green farmlands, virgin bush, fascinating old country towns and the beautiful coastal areas. The amazing journey starts from Auckland, passes through about seven stops and finally stops at wellington. One of the most admired attractions of the journey is the Tongariro National Park, a mixed cultural and natural World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO. The three magnificent volcanic mountains named Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu are the prime charms here. The Northern Explorer covers the entire interior of the North Island and the journey distance is about 681 kilometres (423 miles approx). People who are planning to block tickets on flights from Auckland to Wellington should try the train instead and it is certain that they will not miss their flights! The Northern Explorer operates six days a week. Departures from Auckland are on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays and from Wellington it is on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
The Coastal Pacific [Christchurch-Picton]
There are not many places where you can get surprisingly close to the Pacific Ocean. Watch the mighty ocean crash with the ever strong mountain ranges as the wind blows; and admire the 98 kilometres stretch of the stunning coastline – there is a lot to see in the Coastal Pacific route. Holidaymakers who are securing their tickets for the service can choose to stop en route at the beautiful town Kaikoura and participate in many fun activities like swimming with dolphins and many more. After that, the train passes through the spectacular wine regions of Marlborough and a number of beautiful farming landscapes. The Coastal Pacific train carriages have un-tinted, non-reflective and panoramic windows at sides and roof, both. Passengers can also avail the benefit of GPS-triggered journey commentary in five languages right at the seat! All the carriages are centrally air conditioned with all the amenities available onboard. Those who are boarding flights to NZ must consider that tickets for the Coastal Pacific Train are best booked between October and April.