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TranzAlpine & The North | Fixed Beds

From Christchurch, travel on the world famous TranzAlpine rail journey. You’ll join the Magic coach in Greymouth and begin your route down the West Coast to Queenstown. You will also stay in the historic cities of Dunedin and Christchurch before heading onto Picton and the onto the North Island – completing your journey in Auckland.

TranzAlpine Train: Christchurch to Greymouth

PLAINS, SOUTHERN ALPS, BEECH RAINFORESTS

This trip has been named as one of the world's great scenic rail journeys. You will travel between Christchurch and Greymouth, from one coast of New Zealand to the other. This four and a half our journey takes you across the Canterbury Plains and farmland then continuing on through spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. The train climbs into the Southern Alps stopping at Arthur's Pass Village for some fresh alpine air before heading down through beech rainforests to the West Coast town of Greymouth. Words really don't do this fantastic journey justice whether in winter snow or during summer.

Approximate arrival time into Greymouth is 12.45pm.
Hop off the train today and stay at: Arthur's Pass
 
GREYMOUTH - FRANZ JOSEF

GLACIER HIKING, GOLD, UNTOUCHED WILDERNESS

This morning we travel further down the West Coast before stopping in the township of Hokitika, famous for its often crazy local cuisine and Pounamu (Greenstone). Traces of the ‘gold rush’ times of the that brought thousands upon thousands of wannabe miners and gold panners to the area in the mid 1800s are still evident in the historic town of Ross, we’ll even give you a chance to try some panning yourself and find some of your very own New Zealand gold. Heading further south we enter Westland National Park, an area containing numerous scenic lakes, dense forests, many of the Southern Alps highest peaks and two amazingly accessible glaciers. Time for more adventure! We arrive into the alpine village of Franz Josef in time for those who want to partake in a half day glacier hike. If you wish to aim higher, take a heli-hike that will deliver you to the top of the glacier within the midst of the Southern Alps. If you want a bit more of a challenge, allow an extra day and go for the full day glacier hike – a truly once in a lifetime experience because there are not too many opportunities in the world to do something like this. Those not doing a hike today can be taken to the glacier lookout before being dropped at accommodation. If glaciers aren't your thing, another option here is to go kayaking on the scenic Lake Mapourika, surrounded by stunning mountain peaks. Tonight, relax the night away in the Glacier Hot Pools.

Approximate arrival time into Franz Josef in winter is 12.00pm and summer is 1.00pm.
Hop off the bus today and stay at: Hokitika
 
FRANZ JOSEF - WANAKA

WATERFALLS, MIRROR LAKE, MOUNTAINS

First up this morning we will pass through Fox Glacier, another small village nestled next to a huge and dramatic glacier. Fox Glacier is also the home of one of New Zealand’s most picturesque spots; Lake Matheson. Often referred to as the 'Mirror Lake', it is famous for its reflections of the Southern Alps which dominate the skyline - perfect for those picture postcard photos. As we head inland through Haast and further away from the west coast the scenery changes from dense forest to boulder-filled river beds, cliff faces and incredibly powerful waterfalls. Make sure you snap a photo of the Gates of Haast – a truly amazing valley littered with huge boulders. After this the scenery will take another change and we head into the vast plateaus and many lakes of the Central Otago region. Make sure you have your cameras ready as we pass Lake Hawea and shortly after Lake Wanaka. At the head of the lake is the town of Wanaka. This is where we stop for the night – but not before we’ve taken you to Puzzling World – an amazing mind bending experience that will push your limits and one that you’re sure to love.

Hop off the bus today and stay at: Fox Glacier, Makarora

WANAKA - QUEENSTOWN

UNLIMITED ADVENTURE, GREAT NIGHTLIFE, PANORAMIC VIEWS

This morning we head out of town and get you set for a huge day of adventure and exhilaration. Firstly we drop into the birthplace of Bungy jumping, the Kawarau Bridge. The bridge, which is 42 metres above the Kawarau River, is the site of the world's first commercial bungy jump. We dare you to jump - something you will never forget! From here we make our way past Lake Hayes and into Arrowtown. Arrowtown has an amazingly rich history and as such we’ll give you the time to explore the quaint shops, the Chinese settler’s village and historic buildings in town. In autumn the colours are amazing. From Arrowtown we’ll head onto Arthur’s Point; which is situated on a bend in the Shotover River. This is also the home of the world renowned Shotover Jet, and also the launch point for whitewater rafting. Be sure to get out onto the river if you’ve not yet had enough excitement in your day! We head into Queenstown early in the afternoon where there are endless activity options, from mild to wild. We have allowed two nights in Queenstown (but many people prefer to stay longer) to soak it all up.

Approximate arrival time in Queenstown is 1.30pm.

QUEENSTOWN - DUNEDIN

WILDLIFE, SCOTTISH HERITAGE, CHOCOLATE!!

Life slows down a little as we leave Queenstown behind us. We head off along the old gold mining trail taking in some spectacular scenery through Central Otago and onto the city that is known as the 'Edinburgh of the South' - Dunedin. A wonderful mixture of Victorian colonial history and contemporary cafes and bars, Dunedin also provides a great base to explore the largest variety of wildlife in the South Island. Upon arriving in Dunedin, get close to nature and join the highly recommended Elm Wildlife Tour that takes you to the Otago Peninsula to spot Yellow-eyed penguins, albatross, sea lions and fur seals up close. For something quite different, visit the Cadbury chocolate factory where free samples are included! Another Magic recommended option is to visit Larnach Castle and then finish off a great day by joining the evening Speights brewery tour. Approximate arrival time into Dunedin is 12.45pm.

Hop off the bus today and stay at: Cromwell
 
DUNEDIN - MOERAKI BOULDERS - LAKE TEKAPO

LAKES, MOUNTAINS, STAR GAZING

We start the day with a chance to run up the world's steepest street - that's you, not the Magic bus! The next stop is a walk on the beach to see the Moeraki Boulders, huge great rocks scattered across the seashore renowned for their unique spherical shape. Next we pass through the historic stone town of Oamaru where you can hop off to do activities such as visiting the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony or enjoy one of the many walks in the area. If it’s the country you are after we recommend you hop off the bus just out of Oamaru in a country village called Kurow where you can stay on a working farm for a real New Zealand experience. As we head on into the Mackenzie Country we pass by the Benmore Dam, the largest earth dam in the Southern Hemisphere. Keep an eye on the scenery as there are some amazing views of Aoraki Mt Cook and the many surrounding lakes. The tranquil Lake Tekapo is our overnight destination, a small town located at the end of a lake by the same name. There is a lot on offer here including an optional day trip to Mt Cook village, kayaking on the lake, fantastic sightseeing flights of the Southern Alps or a sedate visit to the idyllic Church of the Good Shepherd. Tonight, don't miss the chance to view the Southern Hemisphere stars up close. Tekapo is a great place to get together with your fellow travellers and share a group meal. Approximate arrival time into Lake Tekapo is 2.30pm.

Hop off the bus today and stay at: Oamaru or Glenmac Farmstay

 
LAKE TEKAPO – CHRISTCHURCH

After leaving the shores of Lake Tekapo, we travel around the edges of the stunning Mackenzie Country crossing over Burkes Pass and the foothills of the Southern Alps. We then pass through the picturesque towns of Fairlie and Geraldine, stopping here for a short time. The bus then heads across the Canterbury Plains, the largest area of flat land in NZ and a huge contrast to our previous days travel! Those flying out from Christchurch today can be dropped off beside the airport after accommodation drop off around the city. Approximate arrival time into Christchurch is 11.30am.

Hop off the bus today and stay at: Geraldine

CHRISTCHURCH - KAIKOURA

WHALE WATCHING, SEAL COLONIES, GREEN GLOBE COMMUNITY

Upon leaving the Christchurch we follow the rugged coastline up to Kaikoura. We have allowed 2 nights in Kaikoura so you don’t miss out on the chance to experience the amazing natural wonders of whale watching or dolphin/seal swimming; make sure you don't miss out! The name 'Kaikoura' translates to 'meal of crayfish' so back on dry land make sure you try some fresh Crayfish or indulge in a traditional New Zealand fish & chip dinner here, voted one of the best places to do so! The sea is teeming with fish and you might want to jump on a fishing trip and catch your own dinner!

Kaikoura has been awarded the international tourism standard ‘Green Globe’, a process developed to reduce the environmental impact of the community and the visitors and ensures that Kaikoura stays clean, green and beautiful. Approximate arrival time in Kaikoura is 3.00pm.

KAIKOURA - PICTON - WELLINGTON

WINE COUNTRY, MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS, COOK STRAIT

Before leaving the Kaikoura Coast this morning we stop at Ohau Point, where there is a large seal colony. If the season is right you may be lucky to see the baby seals playing in a nearby waterfall. They are very curious little creatures and will get up close and personal with you!

After we travel inland through famous hilly pastures and wine country of Marlborough via the small and friendly township of Blenheim. We continue on to Picton, the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds, in time to catch the early afternoon ferry across to Wellington (price of ferry not included in some passes). If you are travelling to Nelson, stay onboard the bus and you will arrive into Nelson late this afternoon. Approximate arrival time in Wellington is 4.30pm.

Hop off the bus today and stay at: Blenheim

 
WELLINGTON - TAUPO

RARE BIRDS, TUI HQ, DESERT ROAD

Today we head north out of Wellington travelling over the Rimutaka Ranges. The height of the ranges provides you with some great views of the countryside. Continuing north we travel through Masterton and some lush Wairarapa farmland before we reach Pukaha Mt Bruce – a wildlife sanctuary. This amazing complex is home to kiwi, tuatara and other critically endangered native New Zealand wildlife. It is even home to Manukura - an amazingly rare white Kiwi. Born in May 2011 she is already a favourite for all visitors. After leaving Mt Bruce we head on to Mangatainoka; the home of Tui beer. This is a true iconic ‘Kiwi’ landmark. We will stop here for lunch so take time to taste the beer, eat some ‘Kiwi tucker’ and even learn some of the ‘His-Tui’ of the brewery. After lunch we’ll head off through the Manawatu and up to the Tongariro National Park. This unique barren landscape forms part of New Zealand's only official ‘desert’, the Rangipo Desert - where we stop for spectacular photos of the National Park and the mountains.

For film buffs, this scenery is also another welcome to Lord of the Rings country, with amazing photo opportunities of the Tongariro National Park, live volcanoes and the Tolkien inspired 'Mt. Doom'. We drive through Turangi before following the lake into Taupo arriving mid afternoon. If you are finishing your trip in Auckland, we recommend you spend at least 1 night in Taupo to enjoy the many activities such as taking a jet boat ride on the Waikato River or Bungy jump above it. Experience one of the best thrills in NZ, skydiving from 15,000 feet you can see both coasts of the North Island and the sprawling Lake Taupo. It’s without a doubt the best way to see the Central Plateau. Taupo is also the starting point for any passengers heading off to New Zealand's Art Deco Capital Napier.

Hop off the bus today and stay at:  Turangi

If you are travelling north from Christchurch and finishing your trip in Auckland we recommend you catch the Waitomo Wanderer from Taupo or Rotorua. This will give you the chance to visit the famous Glowworm Caves which are over 30 million years old. Here you can view the amazing caverns and glowworms or be daring and have a go at one of the many activities Magic has on offer such as black water rafting, or abseiling into the caves (this is something you certainly won't have the chance to do too often!)

TAUPO - MOUNT MAUNGANUI - AUCKLAND

BEACHES, SURFING, CHILLING OUT

Departing Taupo we stop off just out of town to walk to the mighty Huka Falls throwing over 200,000 litres of water each second – it’s a stunning sight, no wonder it’s New Zealand’s most visited natural attraction. The name Huka is the Maori word for 'foam', which is appropriate as the falling water and rapids certainly resembles it. We then head in to Rotorua at approximately 8.30am which will give you the chance to meet up with the East Escape service which runs out to Gisborne and Tatapouri – this is an amazing experience and one we definitely recommend to those people with a couple of days up their sleeve. Leaving Rotorua behind we carry on to the north-west, stopping off for a short wander through the Magic Forest and to learn a little about conservation. The next stop is Tauranga and then onto the chilled out beach town of Mt Maunganui where you have enough time to grab something to eat, or relax on the beautiful beaches and soak up the atmosphere of this iconic Kiwi holiday destination. We recommend you stay an extra night to relax, join the sun-seekers and hit the surf; which is enhanced by an artificial reef. Leaving Mt Maunganui we will see a glimpse of rural New Zealand as we pass through small pioneer towns such as Katikati, the 'mural' town of New Zealand, and Waihi, where the gold rush which began in the 1800’s still continues today. We travel on through the incredible bush lined cutting of the Karangahake Gorge to Paeroa, where some unique landmarks pay homage to the iconic 'Lemon & Paeroa'. In Thames, those travelling to the Coromandel will connect onto their service and start their journey around the peninsula where you will see stunning native bush, a beach where the water is boiling hot and one of the most beautiful coves in New Zealand. For those who are heading on to Auckland, we continue on to meet the southern motorway, traverse the famous Bombay Hills and then deliver you back into the city. We recommend you stay a few nights in Auckland to do some of the sights, such as jumping off the Skytower, bungy jumping from the Auckland Harbour Bridge or catching a ferry to a nearby island. Approximate arrival time into Auckland is 3.30pm.

If Auckland is the end of your journey, why don’t you drop into the Magic office and share your travel stories with us, tell us what a great time you had and bring in some of the photos you’ve taken along your way. You never know, with your photo’s you could win you back the cost of your pass.

Hop off the bus today and stay at: Rotorua, Mt Maunganui or Thames

Please note: New Zealand Flexi -Touring packages are not ‘fully guided, group tours’.

These itineraries include transport (no guide will travel on the coach, but you will be met by hostel staff at each stop and transferred to your accommodation), YHA accommodation and optional activities (operated by local guides who are experts in their area). Everything is pre-booked for you and you are provided with details of each segment, so you do not have to worry about a thing! The advantage of Flexi-touring is that it is tailored to each person’s requirements, departs daily and you are not paying high costs to have a guide sitting on a coach with you.