The equal of the better known TranzAlpine train, the Coastal Pacific train links Christchurch with Picton, through some of New Zealand’s finest scenery. I’ve driven the road, which runs parallel with the train track in places, many times, but the train is the best way to enjoy the views without having to concentrate on the road, and the railway often takes the more scenic route.

It was a rather early start in Christchurch, from the train station in the middle of a big box shopping area in Addington, with check in by 6.40am for a 7am departure. I travelled on a Monday during the summer holidays and there were only about 50 people on the train, less than a third full, so everyone got seats on the coastal side and had plenty of space. It doesn’t take long for the flat Central Canterbury plains to give way to the rolling hills of North Canterbury.

Over 100km of the railway follows closely along the Pacific coast. It didn’t take long to spot a huge pod of Dusky Dolphins.

Along with some impressive coastal scenery.

During which it seems almost everyone on the train was in the open air carriage at the back of the train, the ideal place for photographers to avoid glare from the train windows.

Which was understandable with views like this.

Though I really enjoyed the views inland, particularly toward the Kaikōura Ranges.

The landscape changes quite significantly, getting increasingly dry toward Blenhiem.

A highlight was passing (much closer than the road) by Lake Grassmere, one of very few salt lakes in New Zealand.

The red beds (causing by a natural microscopic green algae that change to pink in the high salt concentration) were particularly eye catching.

There were surprisingly few piles of salt visible.

More dry and delightful hills.

Plus a herd of deer startled by the passing train.

Good views from a bridge.

For the entire journey the views are mainly beautiful hills and mountains and the Pacific Ocean.