About us

Inspired by Sir Edmund Hillary

Explore New Zealand's South Island by scenic rail and luxury coach with Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer.

Sir Edmund Hillary in 1960, smiling, in profile
Sir Edmund Hillary, 1960

The Hillary connection

Our inspiration

Sir Edmund Hillary's spirit of adventure inspires our journeys through New Zealand's South Island. We honour that spirit as we explore the dramatic alpine scenery and remarkable landscapes for which this part of the country is known.

At Aoraki Mt Cook, visit the museum celebrating Sir Edmund Hillary's life and achievements. A member of the Hillary family joins the tour for an evening at the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, sharing personal stories and how the family continues his legacy. On selected tours, learn about his team's Antarctic expedition using converted farm tractors at the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch, and travel through Marlborough, where Hillary trained for the air force during the Second World War and climbed Mt Tapuae-o-Uenuku.

Read our FAQs About the Himalayan Trust

Rail and coach

How you travel

Rail and coach each offer a different view of the South Island. Scenic train journeys are complemented by coach travel to places the railway cannot reach, with frequent comfort stops along the way. All overnight stays are in comfortable hotels.

  • A passenger taking in the coastline from a window seat on the Coastal Pacific
  • Aoraki Mount Cook, snow-covered above a turquoise lake and autumn trees
    Photo: Rob Suisted
  • A railway line running towards snow-capped mountains
  • Fur seals on the rocks at Kaikōura, with snow on the mountains behind
    Photo: Kyle Mulinder

Who we are

Part of Pounamu Tourism Group

Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer is part of Pounamu Tourism Group.

  • World Travel Awards winner shield, 2025
    World Travel Awards NZ’s Leading Tour Operator 2022 · 2023 · 2024 · 2025
  • Pounamu Tourism Group 100% New Zealand owned & operated