Great Journeys New Zealand has invited rail fans to embark on an unforgettable journey with the Matariki Rail Experience.
Visitors will travel from Christchurch to Kaikōura for an evening of stargazing and cultural discovery.
The round-trip train journey on the 21st of June 2025 will feature a delicious onboard menu, including a snack platter, light entrée and winter roast dinner.
In Kaikōura, guests will disembark the train at sunset. They will be shuttled to their stargazing experience at Fyffe House, where they will have access to telescopes, including one with Bluetooth capability for smartphone viewing.
Tracey Goodall, General Manager of Great Journeys New Zealand and Commuter, said the new offering will allow guests to celebrate Matariki, the Māori New Year, through an immersive experience featuring expert-led stargazing, historical insights and good company.
“The new experience aligns well with recent research led by Tourism New Zealand that indicates more than 70 percent of people thinking about visiting New Zealand are interested in stargazing," said Goodall.
“We’ve created this unique experience to showcase our stunning scenery and iconic night skies to our domestic and international guests.”
DarkSky International officially designated Kaikōura as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary in September, supporting New Zealand’s intention to become a dark sky nation.
“We’re excited to welcome this special train to Kaikōura for Matariki, offering a unique way for visitors to experience the magic of our region,” said Lisa Bond, Destination Manager of Destination Kaikōura.
“This journey isn’t just about the breathtaking coastal scenery; it’s a chance to reflect, reconnect, and celebrate the Māori New Year in a truly meaningful way. We look forward to sharing the beauty of Kaikōura and the spirit of Matariki with everyone on board.”
Great Journeys New Zealand is the tourism division of KiwiRail, which has combined its three Scenic train journeys, including the award-winning TranzAlpine, Northern Explorer, and Coastal Pacific.
Delivering to KiwiRail’s overarching purpose of creating stronger connections for a better New Zealand, Great Journeys New Zealand has increased its rail tourism offering with a range of short break packages and multi-day guided tours.
