Launching just in time for summer, Kiwis can now experience the new Scenic Plus when travelling on the TranzAlpine or Coastal Pacific scenic trains, both part of The Great Journeys of New Zealand which are owned and operated by KiwiRail.
The Scenic Plus offer includes a regionally inspired menu delivered to the seats of passengers, who can sit back and enjoy the world-renowned train journeys. The service also includes an onboard host providing captivating commentary on the landscapes, people and places along the way.
Ahleen Rayner, Executive General Manager Tourism & Marketing for KiwiRail Group, says the new offer is perfect for those Kiwis missing out on their international travel and looking to explore the country this summer.
“Our Scenic Plus experience offers guests the taste of the South Island, a captivating hosted experience and spectacular views, so they can be fully immersed in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful journeys.
“We know Kiwis are going to spend a lot of time in their own backyards and we’ve taken visitor insights on board to deliver a world-class experience. This is more than just a train journey, it’s a bucket list must-do for all Kiwis.
Inspired by the flavours of the land, and created in partnership with LSG SkyChefs NZ Limited, The Great Journeys of New Zealand’s new menu will include a cold breakfast, lunch, cheese platters and farewell canapés.
“We’re bringing the stories, scenery and taste of our land right to their seats. Guests will be able to savour the local delicacies and regional wines from our carefully curated menu, supported by stories of our heritage and iconic landscapes,” says Rayner.
The menu spotlights food from local producers, including Canterbury grass-fed roast lamb loin for guests on the TranzAlpine – which travels between Christchurch and Greymouth – and Marlborough salmon and Kaikoura crayfish on the Coastal Pacific – which travels between Christchurch and Picton.
“It is really important for us to showcase the regions that we travel through. We know it’s been a tough year for tourism operators or those impacted by the effects of lockdown on tourism. The new Scenic Plus experience will highlight what the Southern regions can offer Kiwi holidaymakers, boosting the regional tourism economy.”
Rayner says the new offering demonstrates KiwiRail’s renewed focus on value over volume, which fosters a more sustainable tourism model.
For Kiwis eager to get out and see the country, regardless of which class of ticket is purchased, passengers will experience world-renowned carriages with large panoramic windows and skylights through which to enjoy New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes.
“We have a vision for the future of scenic train travel with a pipeline of products and services to deliver that vision,” Rayner says.
Scenic Plus is now available to book for TranzAlpine journeys departing 16th October and Coastal Pacific for journeys departing 20th October.
Bookings are now open for all three scenic train services including the Northern Explorer, which runs between Auckland and Wellington. Plans are underway to launch Scenic Plus on the Northern Explorer in due course.
