KIA ORA, WELCOME
The "Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer" Rail & Coach tours bring together the South Island’s most iconic scenic rail routes in carefully paced, fully guided journeys. Experience extraordinary landscapes while travelling in comfort, with expert tour leaders and every detail organised from start to finish.
Inspired by a True Explorer
Sir Edmund Hillary epitomised the New Zealand spirit of adventure, and he is our inspiration when planning your experience of a lifetime. We pay homage to Sir Edmund Hillary as we explore the South Island of New Zealand and experience the postcard-perfect vistas and dramatic alpine scenery that this part of the world is renowned for.
NEW ZEALAND'S SOUTH ISLAND
Scenic Rail Journeys
Kingston Flyer (Steam)
A lovingly restored steam train that evokes the golden age of rail travel.
TranzAlpine
One of the world’s great scenic trains, crossing the Southern Alps with panoramic views.
Coastal Pacific
A stunning coastal journey between mountains and sea, with views of the Pacific shoreline.
Taieri Gorge Railway
Dramatic landscapes, towering viaducts and river gorges on one of the country’s most scenic routes.
New Zealand's Leading Tour Operator
Recognised as New Zealand’s Leading Tour Operator, our award-winning tours reflect the care, professionalism and attention to detail our guests experience on every journey.
NEW TOUR DATES
Experience Every Season
2026-2027 SEASON
All Upcoming Tours
Tour Brochure Collection
View and download our full brochure collection of award-winning tours. Inside, you’ll find detailed itineraries, rail journeys, accommodations, pricing guides and departure dates.
SOUTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
Tour Highlights Gallery
FROM PAST GUESTS
Our Reviews
"A wonderful tour of the South Island."
My husband and I enjoyed our tour immensely. It was so well organised. We were given the opportunity to see the most beautiful scenery, have varied activities and experiences and thanks to our informative guides learn so much about New Zealand. We highly recommend this trip.
Dec 8, 2025
"First class tour organisation, a tour not to be missed."
We were pleasantly surprised at how well-organised this trip was. The guide team were knowledgeable, personable and well-prepared. Changes to the schedule which were enforced by the weather were notified as soon as possible, and alternative arrangements had been put in place before notification. Sarah at the back office quickly provided notice of refunds due to alternatives. The itinerary was amazing, food and accommodation was first class and the rest of it was provided by the magnificent scenery of the South Island. Special mention to the bus-driver, Steve, who handled everything thrown at him by the weather and the travelling public.
Oct 29, 2025
"A Grand Tour and Holiday of a Lifetime".
This Tour was highly professional and very well organised. It really could not have been better in catering for the different levels of physical fitness. Lauren and Trevor were the best Tour guides, and I really cannot praise them highly enough for the thoughtfulness, expert knowledge and the way they handled every situation.
Oct 1, 2025
FAQs
Frequently asked questions to help assist your planning.
How do I make bank payments to NZ from overseas?
Bank Accounts: You have the option to pay by bank transfer into an AU$, US$ and a NZ$ currency account. To request an invoice to pay into one of these bank accounts, please contact info@pounamutourismgroup.com If you require Pounamu Tourism Group’s physical address: Level 3, 111 Cashel Street, Christchurch, 8011, NZ. BNZ bank’s details: Bank of New Zealand, 80 Queen Street, Auckland, New Zealand.
I have mobility issues, can I join the tour?
At times entering and exiting trains, coaches and vessels can be demanding for those with restricted mobility. To ensure the tour is enjoyable for you, a good standard of physical and mental health and fitness is required. For your enjoyment and safety during the tour, you will need to be able to climb and descend 15 steps, walk unassisted comfortably for 500 metres over uneven surfaces, carry your own bags at times and be able to look after yourself unassisted for an extended period, if required. If you need a walk-in shower at your hotel, please let us know so that we can allocate one in advance, as these are limited. Personal assistance is not available as part of the SEHE Tour. If you require personal assistance, then you must travel with a companion capable of providing this.
Are there toilets on board the trains?
Most of the train carriages have a toilet.
Is the entire tour by train?
The tour is a combination of train & luxury coach over the duration of the tour
Can I choose my seat on the train carriage or coach?
For your enjoyment and comfort, seating is not pre-allocated. We ask that you rotate seating on a regular basis to allow different viewing opportunities for all passengers. If you wish to be seated with a group of friends, please let us know before the tour so that you will be allocated seating on the same coach. If you suffer from travel sickness, please ensure that you have appropriate medication with you.
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