Great Journeys New Zealand is bringing the WOW factor back to the rails, with the return of its highly sought-after WOW Train VIP experience packages for 2026. Now open for bookings on the Great Journeys website, these packages combine an incredible World of WearableArt®experience and iconic rail journeys into one unforgettable adventure.

Following consecutive sold-out WOW Train packages in 2024 and 2025, Great Journeys New Zealand encourages travellers to get in quick to secure their seat on their pick of departures for 2026:

• Thursday 24 September 2026 - ex Auckland
• Friday 2 October 2026 - ex Christchurch

Delivered in partnership with World of WearableArt, the WOW Train VIP experience offers guests a truly immersive way to travel to the iconic show in Wellington. The journey includes spectacular scenery, curated cuisine, exclusive onboard WOW experiences and culminates with one of the country’s most celebrated events – the World of WearableArt Show in Wellington.

The two-night WOW Train packages include accommodation in Wellington, a Gold ticket to the WOW Show, and a return flight. During the scenic train journey, guests will have the opportunity to view selected WOW garments up close, complemented by expert commentary on the craft and creativity behind the designs. Passengers will also receive a WOW goodie bag and enjoy an exclusive, one-off menu onboard.

With 96% ticket buyer satisfaction, the WOW Show is an awe-inspiring arena spectacle that receives rave reviews year after year.

The Christchurch journey combines both the Great Journeys Coastal Pacific train and Interislander ferry en route to Wellington, an experience that has become a highlight for passengers. Meanwhile the Auckland departure offers a spectacular rail journey through the North Island, with guests treated to sweeping scenery and curated onboard experiences as they make their way to the capital.

Great Journeys New Zealand Executive Tracey Goodall says the continued success of the WOW Train reflects the strength of the partnership, uniqueness of the experience and Kiwis’ love for WOW.

“As a proud partner of World of WearableArt, we’re thrilled to be continuing these much-loved packages into 2026 after the incredible response to our sold out-seasons.”

“At Great Journeys New Zealand, we love creating experiences that give Kiwis the chance to see their own country in a new way. The WOW Train experience is a perfect example; it brings together our breathtaking rail journeys and the magic of one of the country’s most renowned events. We’re excited to continue to bring our guests these experiences that celebrate both travel and creativity.”

World of WearableArt Chief Executive Meg Williams says the ongoing collaboration with Great Journeys New Zealand plays an important role in enhancing the overall WOW experience.

"Our eight-year long partnership with Great Journeys New Zealand allows us to take WOW beyond the stage and create something truly special for audiences travelling to the show. Together, we’re able to deliver a seamless, end-to-end experience that reflects the creativity, innovation and sense of occasion that WOW is known for."

The WOW Train VIP experience packages depart Auckland and Christchurch in 2026 and are now available to book via the Great Journeys New Zealand website and travel centre. Packages can be customised with additional accommodation and inclusions. Seats are limited, so get in quick!

For more information, visit greatjourneysnz.com.

Notes:

Overview of WOW Train VIP Packages:

• Ex Auckland – Northern Explorer

Auckland Wellington

Northern Explorer (Auckland to Wellington) and return flight (Wellington to Auckland)
From $2199.00 NZD per person twin share

• Ex Christchurch – Coastal Pacific and Interislander
  Christchurch Wellington

Coastal Pacific (Christchurch to Picton), Interislander one-way (Picton to Wellington), and return flight From $2199.00 NZD per person twin share 

About Great Journeys New Zealand

Great Journeys New Zealand is the tourism division of KiwiRail that brings together its three Scenic train journeys including the award winning TranzAlpine (Christchurch/Greymouth), Northern Explorer (Auckland/Wellington) and Coastal Pacific (Picton/Christchurch).

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.

Developed for both domestic and international visitors, the packages and tours allow travellers to step off the beaten track and explore what each region has to offer with activities, food and beverage options and pre-organised accommodation.

Great Journeys New Zealand commits to the Tiaki Promise and encourages customers and businesses to care for people and place.

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