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The Coastal Pacific Train is a popular tourist attraction for travelers visiting Christchurch, New Zealand. It offers a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty of the South Island, as it travels from Christchurch to Picton on the East Coast.

With stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura Mountains, and other spectacular landscapes, the Coastal Pacific Train journey is a fantastic way to see New Zealand’s natural beauty.

In this blog post, we’ll give you all the information you need to know about this iconic train ride, including its history, what to expect during the journey, and things to do in Picton.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Christchurch or a seasoned traveler, the Coastal Pacific Train is a must-do experience.

History of the Coastal Pacific Train

The Coastal Pacific Train first began operating in 1875 as a passenger and freight service between Christchurch and Picton. The train was a vital link between the two cities and helped to connect people and goods between the South Island and the North Island.

Over the years, the route and service of the train has undergone several changes, but the journey still offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura Mountains, and other spectacular landscapes. The train passes through small towns, lush greenery, and rugged coastal scenery that can’t be seen from the road.

Due to natural disaster such as earth quakes and landslides, the service may have been suspended for a certain period of time, so please check the up-to-date service status before making the plan.

The Coastal Pacific Train is a beloved attraction for both locals and tourists, and has received numerous awards for its scenic beauty and service. It’s also a favorite among train enthusiasts and has been featured in several television shows and movies.

The Coastal Pacific Experience

The Coastal Pacific Train journey takes about 5-6 hours and covers a distance of approximately 360 km (224 miles) between Christchurch and Picton. During the trip, travelers can sit back and relax as they take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura Mountains and other spectacular landscapes from the comfort of their seats.

The train has both standard and premier class carriages, with a range of seating options including reclining seats, tables, and booths. Premier class offers additional amenities such as larger seats, more legroom, and a complimentary refreshment service.

There are also several observation cars on the train, which offer panoramic windows and open-air viewing decks. These are the perfect spots to take photos and soak up the scenery. Food and drink are available for purchase on the train, with a range of options including light meals, sandwiches, snacks, and beverages.

In addition to the breathtaking views, the Coastal Pacific Train also offers a range of activities and entertainment for travelers. These may include informative commentary about the history and landmarks along the route, live music performances, and interactive displays.

Overall, the Coastal Pacific Train offers a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty of the South Island, with its stunning views, comfortable amenities, and range of activities.

Things to Do in Picton

Picton is a beautiful seaside town located at the top of the South Island and the terminus of the Coastal Pacific Train. It’s a popular destination for travelers and offers a wide variety of activities and attractions, such as:

• Take a ferry to the Marlborough Sounds and explore the natural beauty of the area by boat.
• Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum and learn about the history of the town and the shipbuilding industry.
• Go hiking or mountain biking in the Queen Charlotte Sound Track
• Enjoy local seafood and wines in one of the many restaurants and cafes in the town.
• Visit the Picton Botanic Gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings
• Experience the local culture and history at the Picton Museum

Picton also offers a range of activities for nature lovers, such as bird-watching, whale watching, and seal watching. There are also several beaches and water activities to enjoy like Kayaking or sailing.

Overall, Picton is a great destination for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, nature, culture and local food.

How to Book a Trip on the Coastal Pacific Train

There are several ways to book a trip on the Coastal Pacific Train:

• Online: You can book tickets directly through the Coastal Pacific Train website. Simply select your travel dates and choose your preferred seating class and options. You can pay for your tickets using a credit card.
• Through a travel agent: You can also book tickets through a travel agent, either in person or online. Many travel agents offer package deals that include tickets on the Coastal Pacific Train as well as accommodation and other activities.
• At the train station: Tickets can also be purchased at the Christchurch or Picton train stations on the day of travel, subject to availability.

It’s important to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season, as the Coastal Pacific Train can sell out.

There are often promotions and discounts available for tickets on the Coastal Pacific Train, so it’s worth checking the website or asking a travel agent for current offers. For example, there may be discounts for children, students, or seniors, or for booking round-trip tickets.

Overall, booking a trip on the Coastal Pacific Train is easy and convenient, whether you choose to book online, through a travel agent, or at the train station.

Please note that the Coastal Pacific Train service may not run all year round. Be sure to check the availability of the service before booking a trip.

The trip of a life time

In conclusion, the Coastal Pacific Train is a must-do attraction for travelers visiting Christchurch, New Zealand. With its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura Mountains and other spectacular landscapes, and its comfortable amenities and range of activities, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of the South Island.

Picton, the terminus of the train, is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, culture lovers and foodies, with its range of activities, beautiful nature and rich local culture.

Booking a trip on the Coastal Pacific Train is easy, with several options available including online, through a travel agent, or at the train station. Don’t forget to check for promotions and discounts that may be available.

If you’re planning a trip to Christchurch, consider adding the Coastal Pacific Train to your itinerary. And for a truly memorable experience, consider staying at Hotel 115, a boutique hotel in Christchurch. Our team would be happy to help you plan a special package that includes tickets on the Coastal Pacific Train and a stay at our hotel. We look forward to welcoming you to Christchurch and helping you make the most of your visit.

January 10, 2023 by Your friends at Hotel 115

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