Great Journeys New Zealand has launched a mouthwatering rail journey through New Zealand's diverse culinary landscape.
The new Signature tour is designed for food enthusiasts, wine lovers and cultural explorers seeking a unique and immersive New Zealand experience.
“Taste your way through vineyards, indulge in gourmet dining, and immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences,” said General Manager Great Journeys and Commuter Rail Tracey Goodall. “From the delicate flavours of local cuisine to the depth of heritage in unique destinations, guests will explore the essence of New Zealand through its food, wine and culture.”
“Our handpicked four and five-star hotel accommodation is some of New Zealand’s finest, with options for a twin share or single upgrade available.”
The first departure is on 16 March 2025. The 18-day tour starts in Auckland with a welcome dinner and a visit to Waiheke Island.
After being wined and dined in Waiheke, guests will explore some of New Zealand’s must-visit destinations in style on three world-class scenic train journeys (Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine). Each train journey is complemented by the Scenic Plus Dining Experience, and the tour also includes a Cook Strait ferry crossing.
North Island highlights include a guided tour of Sanctuary Mountain, lunch at Lauren's Lavender Farm, an immersive Māori cultural experience, and a culinary experience in Wellington, the capital city.
In the South Island, guests can experience a Marlborough food & wine tour, a Kaikoura dolphin encounter, the Amiki cultural food walking tour in Christchurch, the captivating Franz Josef Haast River Safari and even an optional helicopter tour.
Founder and Lead Guide of Āmiki Cultural Food Tours, Riwai Grace, said sharing of kai was so important to ancestors, and it has continued to today for Māori.
“Connection to local kai (food) and culture allows guests to explore places and spaces in a unique and memorable way. We are delighted to have partnered with Great Journeys to offer guests the opportunity to get up close and personal to culture and food gems hidden in plain sight,” said Grace.
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