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New Zealand's intercity rail network is small but scenically remarkable, operated by KiwiRail's Great Journeys of New Zealand service. The three iconic routes are the Northern Explorer (Auckland to Wellington, 12h), the Coastal Pacific (Christchurch to Picton, 5h20m along the South Island's Pacific coast and Marlborough wine country), and the TranzAlpine (Christchurch to Greymouth, 4h30m crossing the Southern Alps through Arthur's Pass). These are premium tourism trains, not commuter services, and run only 2-4 days per week. Commuter rail in New Zealand is limited to Auckland (AT Metro network) and Wellington (Metlink trains). Auckland's train network serves 5 lines radiating from the Britomart Transport Centre; the new City Rail Link underground connection is under construction and expected to double capacity. Wellington's electric commuter trains serve the Hutt Valley, Kapiti Coast, and Johnsonville. Inter-island travel requires the Interislander or Bluebridge ferry between Picton and Wellington (3h crossing). Tickets for scenic trains are available at greatjourneysofnz.co.nz; advance booking is strongly recommended for the popular TranzAlpine and Coastal Pacific, which sell out weeks ahead in summer. Gold Leaf class (panoramic windows, open-air viewing platform) is the standard experience; Silver Fern class is a budget option on some services.