TranzAlpine Service Disruption
Due to a derailment blocking the Otira Tunnel, the TranzAlpine service is currently unable to complete its scheduled journey to Greymouth.
The train will operate between Christchurch and Arthur’s Pass only, before returning to Christchurch. Unfortunately, replacement coach services are unavailable, and onward travel to Greymouth cannot be provided at this time.
Affected Journey
Christchurch → Arthur’s Pass – TranzAlpine train
Arthur’s Pass → Christchurch – TranzAlpine train (return journey)
Passenger Options
Passengers affected by this disruption may choose to change their travel date at no additional charge, with the new travel date within six months of the original departure date.
Alternatively, passengers may cancel their journey and receive a full refund for the impacted journey leg. Please note that credit card processing fees are excluded from the refund.
We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience and disappointment caused by this disruption. Passenger safety remains a priority, and the team appreciates everyone's patience and understanding while the situation is being managed.
PLEASE NOTE: Between 6-9 November 2026, the Northern Explorer will be bus replaced between Hamilton and Auckland Strand (approx. 2 hours). The journey from Wellington to Hamilton will be the Northern Explorer train. Crew will be onboard, and luggage will be transferred.
Train Schedules Extended to June 2028. Please review operating days and planned maintenance closures when arranging travel.
Northern Explorer
Operating Days
- Northbound: Wednesday, Friday & Sunday
- Southbound: Monday, Thursday & Saturday
Scheduled Track Maintenance
Full cancellations – No bus replacements
- 23–27 October 2026
- 25 December 2026 - 11 January 2027
- 26-29 March 2027
- 23-26 April 2027
- 4-7 June 2027
- 25-28 June 2027
- 25 August 2027
- 22-25 October 2027
- 24 December 2027-11 January 2028
Coastal Pacific
Operating Days
- 1 Sep 2026 – 30 Apr 2027: Daily
- 1 May 2027 - 31 Aug 2027: Not operating
- 1 Sep 2027 - 30 Apr 2028: Daily
Note: The Coastal Pacific does not operate on Christmas Day.
TranzAlpine
Operating Days
- 14 Jul 2026 – 30 Jun 2028: Daily
Note: The TranzAlpine does not operate on Christmas Day.
Scheduled Track Maintenance
Full cancellations – No bus replacements
- 24–26 October 2026
- 26-29 March 2027
- 23-30 May 2027
- 25-28 June 2027
- 25-27 September 2027
- 23-26 October 2027
- 14-17 April 2028
- 21-28 May 2028
Onboard Infotainment App
Audio commentary is now delivered through the Great Journeys New Zealand app. Passengers should bring:
- Personal mobile device
- Headphones
- USB charging cable
Download the free app before travel. Full content becomes available once connected to onboard Wi-Fi.
For further inquiries or assistance with your travel plans, please contact our New Zealand Travel Team.
Our friendly New Zealand Travel Team is available from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm (New Zealand Time) Monday - Sunday, excluding public holidays.
For assistance and reservations during our opening hours, contact our New Zealand Travel Team by email or phone. To cancel a reservation, please email us at info@newzealandtravelteam.com before 72hrs or 3 days from the travel date.
Phone
You can call one of our English-speaking Consultants at +64 7 575 5049
Current New Zealand time:
Within New Zealand:
Reservations only with payment - 0800-143-669
Travel planning and all other inquiries - +64 7 575 5049
Outside New Zealand:
+61 1800 359 729 Australia Toll-free
+1 855 413 3019 USA Toll-free
+1 866 554 0304 Canada Toll-free
+44 800 0148106 United Kingdom Toll-free
