The TranzCoastal travels between Christchurch, the major city in the south island and the delightful port of Picton, in the Marlborough Sounds. This journey is a scenic feast, connecting with the inter-island ferry before crossing through grape country and over plains, south down the east coast through salt mountains and river valleys. For over 100 kilometers it runs along a thin ledge of land pinned between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Ranges. |
The TranzCoastal travels between Christchurch, the major city in the south island and the delightful port of Picton, in the Marlborough Sounds. This journey is a scenic feast, connecting with the inter-island ferry before crossing through grape country and over plains, south down the east coast through salt mountains and river valleys. For over 100 kilometers it runs along a thin ledge of land pinned between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Ranges. Kaikoura boasts unique whale, seal and dolphin watching experiences, followed by the lush beauty of farms and vineyards of North Canterbury. The TranzCoastal travels through 22 tunnels and crosses 175 bridges, one of them being New Zealand's only road-rail bridge. As on The TranzAlpine, The TranzCoastal includes an open air viewing carriage where all your senses are awakened with the clean, fresh, sea air. |