First Class on a Train in New Zealand: A Journey Through Comfort, Scenery, and Kiwi Hospitality

All Aboard: A Different Kind of First Class
Flying first class may have its perks, but nothing quite compares to the unfolding cinematic scenery of New Zealand as seen from a luxury train carriage. With sweeping windows, plush seating, and gourmet local cuisine, first class on a New Zealand train is an experience that merges comfort and connection with nature in the most elegant way possible.

We hopped aboard the renowned TranzAlpine—one of the world’s greatest train journeys—to test out what “first class” really feels like on tracks across Aotearoa. Spoiler: it did not disappoint.

The TranzAlpine Experience: Christchurch to Greymouth
Spanning from Christchurch to Greymouth, the TranzAlpine takes you through the Canterbury Plains, over the Southern Alps, and past glacial rivers and native forests. The total ride is about 5 hours, but every minute feels like a moving postcard.

First class (a.k.a. Scenic Plus) elevates the entire journey, from the moment you board to the final scenic stretch.

What Does First Class Include?
Let’s break it down:

✅ Spacious, reclining leather seats with extra legroom
✅ Panoramic windows and overhead skylights for maximum views
✅ Gourmet food and wine service, served at your seat
✅ Exclusive carriage with fewer passengers
✅ Access to an outdoor viewing platform
✅ Warm Kiwi service from professional onboard hosts
✅ Complimentary tea, coffee, juice, and snacks throughout

It’s not just about luxury—it’s about feeling immersed in New Zealand’s landscapes without sacrificing comfort.

Breakfast with a View
As the train glided out of Christchurch, we were served a locally-sourced breakfast of smoked salmon, free-range scrambled eggs, and herb-roasted potatoes. A glass of sparkling apple juice (or Champagne, if you prefer) added a celebratory touch.

Each dish came with a story—from the South Island dairy where the cheese was made to the local honey farm providing the sweet glaze.

And then... the windows. Towering mountain peaks slowly rose into view. The Waimakariri River shimmered like a silver ribbon. With every turn, it felt like we were traveling inside a nature documentary.

Seats Designed for Daydreaming
First class isn’t just about plushness—it’s about thoughtful design.

Seats are arranged in 2x1 configuration, giving solo travelers a throne-like experience and couples plenty of space. There are built-in USB chargers, tray tables, and plenty of space for your day bag or camera gear.

Bonus? The entire carriage is whisper quiet and temperature-controlled.

Scenic Highlights Along the Way
Here are some show-stoppers along the journey:

🌄 Arthur’s Pass – A dramatic ascent into the Southern Alps, where you might even spot Kea birds (New Zealand’s cheeky alpine parrots).
🌿 Otira Tunnel – At 8.5 km, it's the longest rail tunnel in NZ, carved right through the mountains.
🌊 Moana & Lake Brunner – Tranquil, reflective waters perfect for photography.
🌧️ Greymouth arrival – Lush West Coast rainforest welcomes you with a whole new vibe.

The Food: Elevated but Authentic
The Scenic Plus menu rotates with the seasons. On our journey, we tasted:

🍽️ Lamb with kumara mash and Manuka jus
🥗 Beetroot and feta salad with toasted walnuts
🍷 Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
🍰 Pavlova with kiwifruit coulis

Everything is plated and presented with finesse, but there’s still that easy Kiwi charm—no pretension, just pride in good food.