Expect panoramic views of lush forests, sparkling coastlines, rolling hills, small towns, and big cities.

TheNorthern Explorer trainstarts inAucklandand runs just over 400 miles south to New Zealands capital city of Wellington.

After crossing the 58-mileCook Straitaboard the Interislander ferry, travelers can transfer to theCoastal Pacific trainat Picton.

Aerial view of TranzAlpine passes Lake Sarah on a clear day, past snowy mountains

Credit:Picasa/Courtesy of Great Journeys New Zealand

Finally, theTranzAlpine traintraverses the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps between Christchurch and Greymouth.

Private coach or shuttle tours can whisk passengers to nearby destinations, including Queenstown and Milford Sound.

Tour guides provide local insights and personal introductions.

Passengers on board the Norther Explorer train admiring the view of Kawhatau Valley in New Zealand

Heyworth R&F/Courtesy of Great Journeys New Zealand

Open carriages are also available perfect for fresh-air viewing and photography.

Coastal Pacific train curving around Mangamaunu Bay in New Zealand

Heyworth R&F/Courtesy of Great Journeys New Zealand

TranzAlpine train crosses the Waimakariri River Bridge in New Zealand

Courtesy of Great Journeys New Zealand