KiwiRail Tourism Division Surpasses Targets with Premium Growth

KiwiRail has achieved a major milestone in tourism this year by exceeding expectations through premium rail experiences and strong demand for new regional tour packages. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The company welcomed about 190,000 passengers this fiscal year—roughly 82% of pre-Covid volumes. Despite lower numbers, KiwiRail’s tourism revenue has grown significantly.

Don’t miss…Vande Bharat Express Launches Udhampur–Delhi Route Today

KiwiRail Expands Premium Regional Rail Experiences

Executive GM of Passenger Services, Tracey Goodall, confirmed that this growth stems from a strategy focused on high-value travel, not volume. She said the post-Covid pivot prioritized immersive, premium tourism.

New products launched include fully guided rail tours, self-directed travel packages, event journeys, and the Scenic Plus luxury dining service. These aim to enhance the rail experience for domestic and international travelers.

In particular, KiwiRail introduced short-break packages highlighting regional destinations. These trips give customers a chance to explore lesser-known places through scenic and sustainable rail adventures.

This regional strategy continues to deliver strong results. Goodall noted that demand has already surpassed revenue forecasts in this area, and the segment keeps growing.

KiwiRail Sees High Demand for Signature Tour and Events

The brand’s most successful product, the Signature ‘Up Close’ tour, sells for $15,000 and lasts 17 days. The New York Times ranked it the fourth-best global experience last year.

Meanwhile, all four departure dates for the ‘Southerner Returns’—linking Christchurch and Dunedin—sold out quickly. A new Matariki night rail experience to Kaikōura also reached full booking weeks in advance.

KiwiRail’s recent success reflects increasing traveler interest in low-impact, authentic exploration by train. The company aims to expand these offerings further in the coming year.

“People want meaningful, low-emission ways to see New Zealand,” said Goodall. “And KiwiRail is proud to lead the way with experiences that exceed both expectations and sustainability goals.”

Source: www.railexpress.com.au

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: