Catch the Coastal Pacific train to Kaikōura
The Coastal Pacific train stops at Kaikōura in the morning en-route to Picton, and again in the afternoon en-route to Christchurch.
The station building, known colloquially as the Whaleway Station, is headquarters for one of New Zealand's must-do activities, Whale Watch Kaikōura. They don't sell tickets for the Coastal Pacific, but their shop is a great place to spend a few minutes while waiting for the train.
When the train arrives, our crew will greet you on the platform to Check you in, provide you with your seat number, and assist with loading any baggage you have into our luggage carriage.
You can buy tickets for the Coastal Pacific from the crew on the platform at Kaikōura on the day of travel, but we strongly encourage you to book online in advance. Standing is not allowed, so if all seats are sold out, you will not be able to travel.
Coastal Pacific Check-In
- Arrive at Station 20 minutes early
- Wait near the centre of the platform for the train to arrive
- A crew member will greet you on the platform once the train has arrived to check you in and provide you with your Boarding Pass and Luggage Labels.
- All wheeled bags, large backpacks, and suitcases will need to be taken to the Luggage Carriage.
See our Check-In and Luggage page for more details.
Kaikōura Railway Station
Whaleway Station Road, Kaikōura 7300
Coastal Pacific train timetable
Our Coastal Pacific train travels long weekends in the Spring (Oct - Dec) and daily in the Summer (Dec - April).
