NZ Trains
 

We will fly into Christchurch next April. Would like to take the train to Auckland. We have been told it's the best thing to do, and we have been told not to do it. <BR>Would love to hear what people "who know" have to offer on this subject.

Drive - much more flexible, much more fun, not hard at all, roads are good, people are great. NZ Rail are no different than any other rail company in the world - when they are good they are average, when they are bad they will ruin your plans.

Thanks, Michael, <BR>We have driven all over the U.S. and in Europe with no problems. Can you think of anything different we might encounter in Australia or NZ? <BR>

I guess the only things I would say are that you should allow enough time for side trips if you are using the driving for sight-seeing as well as getting from point A to point B, petrol is relatively expensive compared to the US, there are no "superhighways" however the road conditions are good, in NZ the main highway although in most places just a single carriageway is a very good road to drive, because of the South Island to North Island leg of your trip you will need to take a ferry across which will mean a car drop off and pickup and finally just remember to drive on the right side of the road which is the left side!

I travelled into and out of Christchurch by train, which passes some of the greatest views of the ocean to the east. It is in daytime and although the buffet isnt bad, the relaxing journey is A!. Connect to the ferry to get to Wellington - another memorable trip, unless the southerly winds give you a really memorable hour inbetween the islands!! (ps over 55 years old). Have you visited Canterbury's website, which gives the view of the area. The train trip to Greymouth should not be missed - there and back in one day.

BB, <BR> I'll agree with Mike from OZ. You'd probably enjoy driving more. I was in NZ as an independent backpacker last year. I took the train twice. Was OK, but NZ brags that it's passenger train system is the only one in the world that makes money without Gov't help (hint). <BR> I DID hear fantastic things about the train trip out of Christchurch to the West coast through Author's Pass. Did the Pass by auto and it is worthwhile. <BR> If you hire a car at Christchurch, check out dropping it off at Picton, taking the ferry over, then hiring another car in Wellington. The ferry charge for autos is so high, even some Kiwis will rent when they cross the channel. Keith