The TranzCoastal train is a scenic rail journey between Picton - the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds, to Blenheim, Kaikoura and Christchurch - South Islands largest city. 

Your journey is a scenic feast, with the Picton mountain ranges on one side of your train and the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline on the other. Travel through some of New Zealand’s finest horticultural and farmland areas, plus seals and penguins from the comfort of your carriage.

Along the way you pass though the village of Kaikoura, where you can break your journey to take in the whale watching or dare to get closer and swim with the dolphins.

All carriages are centrally heated/air conditioned, with 'Table Group' (4 people around a table) seating that allow you to experience the amazing views through large panoramic windows.

The TranzCoastal includes an open air viewing carriage where all your senses are awakened with the clean, fresh, sea air and a Buffet Carriage, offering a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, snacks and light meals.

The TranzCoastal train is reserved seating 'One Class/Non Smoking' service.

The TranzCoastal train does not operate of Christmas Day - 25 December.

There are connecting bus/coach services at Blenheim from Nelson and Motueka (Marahua).

The TranzCoastal train connects with Interislander and Bluebridge ferry sailings between Wellington and Picton.

Please click for timetable information and online fares and reservations.

There are no passenger train/rail services from Picton to Nelson.