Gain a unique perspective of New Zealand
Our Open-air Viewing Carriages are famous around the world thanks to the amazing photographs people capture and share on Social Media.
But even those who aren't looking for a sensational image for the 'gram enjoy the unique sensation of travelling through New Zealand's mighty landscapes from the vantage point of our outdoor viewing decks. And many dinnertime anecdotes of travelling New Zealand have included the tale of travelling outdoors on our trains.
Each of our three Scenic trains features an Open-air viewing carriage. So be sure to bring some warm clothes along so you can enjoy part of your journey outside.
Get Closer to New Zealand's stunning scenery
Explore New Zealand's great outdoors, from the highs of the volcanic plateau to the rocky coastlines of Kaikōura through the mountains of the Southern Alps.
Breathe it all in from our Open-air Viewing Carriages.
Northern Explorer
Venture outside and experience Middle Earth in all its vibrant glory from the Northern Explorer's Open-air Viewing Carriage.
From crisp mountain air to salty sea breezes, native bush and scented forests, outside the Northern Explorer is a world that invigorates all of the senses. Wrap up warm and bring sunglasses, this epic journey regularly travels through all four seasons in a day.
Coastal Pacific
Step outside into our Coastal Pacific Open-air Viewing Carriage and fill your senses with magnificent views, sea breezes, and salty air.
During the hot summer months, the Open-air Viewing Carriage is a great place to get some fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors while on the move. You can whittle away the hours chatting and gazing out upon spectacular scenery and wildlife as you glide alongside beaches and cliffs.
TranzAlpine
The picture-perfect TranzAlpine journey is a Social Media icon, and almost all of those amazing photos come from our unobscured Open-air Viewing Carriage.
But it's even better without a camera. The joyous experience of travelling through the Southern Alps in our open-air carriage is immense. Feel the brisk winter air freshen your cheeks, or the warm summer breeze ruffle your hair. Get wet in the rain or kissed by the sun. Stepping into the TranzAlpine Open-air Carriage is an experience like no other.
Discover more
Find out more about our Scenic Class experience, and what you will discover on board.
Our Scenic Class Carriages
Glide through the heart of New Zealand's beautiful scenery in our Scenic Class carriages
Scenic Café
Savour the journey with locally sourced food & drink from our Scenic Café to accompany the views