We will be flying in to Christchurch and out of Auckland in late September. We want to visit Marlborough wineries and Abel Tasmin park and then take the ferry to the North Island. We would like to take the train but both the TranzAlpine and TranzCoastal sound amazing. Which one is 'not to be missed'?
Tranz Scenic - TranzAlpine or TranzCoastal?
Recent Activity
View all Australia & the Pacific activity »
- 1 Cricket, diving and NZ - how long to fit it all in?
- 2 Hotels in Australia
- 3 Help with 4 weeks on South Island!
- 4 Travel to NZ with a dog
- 5 6 hour wait at sydney for flight to brisbane. Any ideas to pass the time?
- 6 Darwin, Kakadu, Katherine itinerary help
- 7 Australia 18 day trip advice
- 8 Sydney airport to Circular Quay least expensive option
- 9 BEWARE: Avoid Wicked Travel
- 10 3 weeks in NZ self drive
- 11 Careful before booking any short-term accommodation on NSW Coast
- 12 Micronesia- when to visit
- 13 Seeking hike companion for Stewart Island (southernmost NZ)
- 14 Melbourne Airport / Rental Car Question
- 15 Please Help my New Zealand 10 days trip Itinerary...
- 16 10 Days in NZ South Island - Feedback?
- 17 Help me plan my April - May trip to Australia
- 18 1st trip to New Zealand
- 19 Melbourne--in the summer is air conditioning a must ?
- 20 Hotel suggestions near Brisbane airport?
- 21 South Island of New Zealand end of May?
- 22 Foodies, help! Melbourne Chinese Restaurant recommendations
- 23 Experience with GrabOne
- 24 Lone Traveler!
- 25 Know a good Charter Co. in French Polynesia?
Hi Deb!
I've taken them both and they each have their charms, but I'd have to pick the TranzAlpine!
It really comes down to how much time you have, how you're arranging it and what sort of trip appeals to you the most.
Hope this is helpful!
Regards,
Melodie
Certified Kiwi Specialist
have only done the Transalpine but would highly recommend it. I did it in a day ie there and back in one day but only because I was at a conference and limited time.
Been on both. I'd say the Transalpine is much much better. I could have done without the Transcoastal and really, it was just a way to get from a to b for me. The Transalpine is best if you sit on the left (north side) when going from Christchurch to Greymouth. Once passing Arthurs Pass don't be surprised if the weather changes dramatically.