FIRST CLASS on a TRAIN in New Zealand

[@cherylsibson2529]

New Zealand is such a beautiful country, and so are New Zealand people!

[@lucasNZL]

Thanks for visiting my country guys, i hope you guys enjoyed your time here! That train ride looks amazing, we've decided to buy tickets after watching this, cheers guys, all the best

[@DanielleGlick]

I'm glad you finally made it to the trains in NZ! But please tell me you didn't skip the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth?! The views on that train easily blow these other two routes away, even though like you said, these are two of the prettiest trains in the world. I've ridden all 3 scenic trains in NZ and gone back to the CoastalPacific and TranzAlpine in different seasons to see the green view vs. the snowy view. I recommend everyone start in Auckland and end in Greymouth, so you'll build up from the least to best views. I also think going in late spring is probably prettiest because the snow is still on the mountains but the valleys are bright green and flowering.

[@phillipstafford2410]

My favorite part of these videos is seeing Mike interact with strangers, because I realize it's not just me it really is a Canadian thing we like people

[@RCKennington]

One of my earliest memories is being stuck in snow in on the cental plateau on the old Silver Star overnight train between Wellington and Auckland. They had to dig us out in the middle of the night. My memory is of looking out the window and seeing the rail workers walking along side the train with lanterns checking for snow and damage. My 4 year old self thought that this must be where Santa lived.

[@matmooNZ]

Thanks for visiting our home, Aotearoa. I hope you enjoyed it!

[@ronnymcdonald2543]

NEW ZEALAND - No-one voted to change OUR nations official name.

[@RampireNZ]

It is called New Zealand..use it.

[@Xavier7799]

It's New Zealand , not Aotearoa.

[@thesquire6352]

@@ronnymcdonald2543 No one voted because it was already named before there was a government here. Have some respect, you see all the maori carvings and language on the train and literally at every tourism spot, people around the WORLD appreciate the culture, you should appreciate it as well seeing as it is a massive part of our tourism. You don't get to pick and choose to have maori things only when it benefits financially while at the same time dismissing the very culture of aotearoa/ new zealand that people appreciate. Shocking that this hate comes only comes from new zealanders.

[@RampireNZ]

@@thesquire6352 No it wasn't stop lying. In the pre-European era, Māori did not have a collective name for the two islands.

[@sirjerrythe3rd232]

1:02 I work at that car yard out the window, I watch that train leave most mornings!

[@joermnyc]

Hobbit mealtimes: Breakfast, Second Breakfast, Elevensies, Luncheon, Afternoon Tea, Supper, Dinner.

[@rufusshyam7701]

I've been following DownieLive for the past three years, and I have to say, you're absolutely amazing! The experiences you share are incredible, and the positivity and breathtaking scenery you showcase are truly inspiring. Thank you for bringing such uplifting vibes to your audience!

[@DownieLive]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@Midnight_Fox-f5g]

@@DownieLive Hey man, I hope you really enjoyed New Zealand, we're happy to have you

[@kathynichols6602]

Exactly which why I’m hooked. I have learned a lot about trains and travel in general.

[@cevihings]

I got connected to your channel when you were doing train journey from east coast of Canada to its west coast some years ago... fantabulous and this vlog i thoroughly enjoyed ...many thanks for sharing 🫶🫶🫶🫶🙌🙌🙌🙌 also enjoyed your travel around the world in first class

[@rufusshyam7701]

@@DownieLive You inspire me to travel solo and stay happy. I never traveled alone before, but after following you, I’ve started my own solo adventures. Your positivity and energy are amazing, and I hope to reflect the same. Thank you for inspiring me!

[@carlmcgregor2707]

We as Kiwis are so blessed.

[@jasonhenderson9833]

Welcome Mike! So glad you've come! I've watched your rail journeys for years and its so nice to see you enjoying rail in NZ (And beautiful job on pronunciation of place names too). Thanks for making the journey to come all the way to NZ - it's wonderful to have you here!

[@ytzpilot]

New Zealand is an entirely Narrow Gauge Network, which means tighter curves through mountain passes but still surprisingly a smooth ride. I came to New Zealand from Canada in 2011 and never left, beautiful country ❤

[@jcgrant1234]

I wish I had never left in 1990. It is the only place I have ever wanted to "runaway" to--even if it meant I could not return to the US. I know the US has its many faults, but it is my home, and having visited about 40 other countries, New Zealand is the only place I have been that I thought would be worth giving up my home. People, culture, scenery!

[@WestCoastWheelman]

Those little narrow gauge locos are so cute, they're so wee and smol

[@IntelDesignS59]

@@WestCoastWheelman THey are compared to the ones you have in North America. But did you know that Japan (with its high speed rail network) operates on the same sized gauge as NZ.

[@paniafraser9471]

Kia Ora Nau Mai Haere Mai Te Aotearoa( Greeting to you both and welcome to New Zealand). Thank you for loving our home and hope you both explore more around NZ... Cheers.

[@strider2175]

Mike, Mike, Mike. You should be PUNished for all of those puns. 🤣

[@andrealauer4493]

I was hoping for a pun about the "PP saver" outside the bathroom during breakfast 😂

[@DannyA3579]

The views that you have from that train remind me of my first trip to Switzerland. So much greenery and blue skies, and then suddenly, I see Lake Geneva for the very first time, and it’s flanked by mountains. And then you take another turn, and it’s snow capped Alps…and it’s just stunning. I’ve been to New Zealand before but while working for a cruiseline. We did several ports and they were all amazing. I may have to go back and do a train trip.

[@blairo15]

Unreal mate. The volcano was cool. And the food 😋. That train is on my bucket list now. Thanks mate!

[@anthonyhovens7488]

I live in Taupō. On a Sunny day, you can see clear across to the other side of Lake Taupō and get a stunning view of Ruapehu, the volcano seen here, as well as Ngarahoe and Tongariro (her shorter sisters). Unfortunately Taupō has no rail connection, so you'd have to drive. But that gives you an opportunity to take Desert Road which gets much closer than you would by train.

[@danzreggae]

Thank you for showing off our beautiful country very proud

[@CateOwen]

Sometimes we forget how spoilt we are in Aotearoa New Zealand. Seeing it anew through tourists eyes is such a gift.

[@serbkebab2763]

New Zealand. You can just say New Zealand.

[@ra6064]

@@serbkebab2763 people have choices thanks to our triligingal official languages

[@bexxx_xx]

​@@serbkebab2763 Aotearoa. You can just say Aotearoa.

[@tangiers365]

@@serbkebab2763 how about you say nothing?

[@AnnSmith-u9c]

It’s just New Zealand. It’s ok to still just say New Zealand

[@ldoughtyy]

The "Rushing out of the hotel" montage was PERFECT. So predictable yet still so fun. Nice video Mike! Looks like I'm heading to New Zealand.

[@interstellaraudiodnb]

Rushing but with enough time to get about 4 different angles

[@kevinpatton2185]

@@interstellaraudiodnb Agreed, but the whole montage made me laugh! The hurry up to the elevator and then wait for it was funny!

[@interstellaraudiodnb]

@ yeah it’s all top!

[@Nynke_K]

'run, run! We need to catch the train and set up the camera in several places along the way! 😆

[@seagerwhanau9182]

Great to see you finally made it to NZ. I hope you come back and do the Tranz-Alpine some time soon. A number of people say that is even better than the Coastal Pacific. If you do come back spend some time on the west coast and do some of the many adventure activities over there. I managed to also watch your Forgotten Adventure in to Middle Earth - well - the middle of nowhere. Loved it. We have a few of those adventures over here. The ones I know are in Dargaville and in Mamaku (near Rotorua). Mamaku is my favourite as it looks down on Lake Rotorua. Many thanks for your entertaining videos. I hope you managed to have some quality family time back in Canada for Christmas (ps - loved the poem) and I look forward to your 2025 adventures. 🙂

[@Alverya]

i agree, the Tranz-Alpine is amazing and breathtaking. did it 2 years ago and would like to do it again.

[@shaunganley]

Did a Trans-Alpine ride from Arthur's Pass to Christchurch. It's incredibly beautiful. Biggest regret of my 17 day NZ adventure was not having enough time to do the South Island west coast. Just a gorgeous country, great people. Can't wait to get back someday.

[@caryrodda]

I traveled to NZ three decades ago and discovered what a beautiful country it is and how great the people are. Would love to visit again someday.

[@storesnz]

Been following you for years now and so good to see you in my home country.

[@ChristoKiwi]

It's a real shame the ride doesn't start from Dunedin. So much more to see!

[@jentommyontheroad8089]

New Zealand was already at the top of my bucket list (as soon as I renew my passport) but this train must be added! Thank you for sharing this amazing journey!

[@RickTexas]

1. I love your videos 2. I love your Train videos 3 I love when you have your friends with you in your videos. You have some fantastic friends. That was great when Seth stole your closing line. We won't mention all of the puns!

[@MeNameJaef]

I love these train videos so much, they’re so dang relaxing.

[@d.s.4627]

Mike, you are so PUNny! Thanks for taking us to New Zealand. What a great trip!

[@GreenerGrass]

What a great video! Thanks so much for taking us along, Mike! Really enjoyed this “Bromantic Trip.” Particularly Seb’s ending!!! 😂

[@DownieLive]

Haha, thanks Jeb! We were booking our trip as your video came out. We’ll definitely have to collaborate this year!

[@anitahoward4314]

Bahahahaha, 2nd breakfast! My dogs, Josie and Pearl, heard those 2 words and looked up! They know “2nd breakfast” is some of mom’s breakfast food served after their breakfast.😂

[@aholland6689]

Absolutely stunning view of New Zealand !

[@GDETrust]

You came to New Zealand. Hope you enjoyed my home. Now to watch the video and see if you show my farm... We back onto the main trunk line just south of Hamilton.

[@mitchmullen42]

as someone who lives in picton, you guys are lucky the ferry was working. it's fxxked half the time, either broken down or beached....glad to see you enjoying yourself in our beautiful country. hope you come back again

[@PhilBrennan-g5g]

I’m adding this trip to my bucket list.

[@gaylepowers3981]

VERY NICE! Beautiful and peaceful. Just the way I like it. Thanks again, Mike.

[@katief7047]

This is so freaking cool!! I think of all the trains you’ve done, this one is on the top of my list to try and do one day. And that’s a hard list to top! Thanks for always sharing these unreal experiences that so many of us won’t get to experience ❤ you always have a way to capture the energy and excitement of everywhere you go - even if it’s to the tiniest, most random towns. Your positivity and outlook for life are really inspiring! So thank you

[@ChrisJones-gx7fc]

I did a college semester abroad in New Zealand in Spring (their fall) 2016. During my time there I made it a point to explore around the country, utilizing motor coaches and a bike, as well as a couple train rides. One was the TranzAlpine which crosses the width of the South Island between Christchurch and Greymouth, which is easily one of the most scenic train rides in the world (perhaps even more so than the ones you rode here). You go through the mountains with up close views of tall peaks, and cross multiple bridges across deep ravines. Hopefully you got to ride that train too.

[@sandiandgregh]

We love a classic Downie by train trip. :) This was fantastic. And that scenery is a true wow. Looking forward to the next. Happy new year!

[@susanbrennan5511]

What a beautiful trip! Thank you!

[@Joseph-c7l]

I really love your videos! Discovered your channel during a very stressful time in my life and will forever be a viewer, thank you for quality content!!!!

[@Jonistired]

I seriously can’t imagine anything better than a mix of Canada and San Francisco.

[@JDgo]

In 2014 I went to New Zealand for an extended 'land tour' vacation. Started in Christchurch & the first morning we got on the Kiwi Train that crossed over to the other side of that island. Most of the land travel was by tour coach (bus). Stayed overnight in Picton, such a pretty town! Took the Farry to Wellington & rode the cable car too! Love that country. 17 days later, the tour was over with such fond memories though! It's great to see your vlogs again. I thought you had changed careers or something? You're a good man Downie.

[@samlowe4186]

I totally agree with your comment about paying for a seat but only needing the open air carriage! I did the train ride on the north island last year and of the 11 hour journey I must have spent at least 7 or 8 of them just in the open air car, it's where you can get all the best pictures without window reflections 😊

[@lamarblake]

Michael Downie your train vlogs are absolutely the best! I'm still waiting for the Ghan. 😜😜😁😁

[@John_Fugazzi]

Great start to a new year. New Zealand is one of the favorite places I've ever visited but I never knew about this scenic, food-filled train ride. I hope to do this one some day. It looked like spring with all the yellow broom blooming. I think this was the first official Downie Live bathroom tour I've seen in a while.

[@AllIsWellaus]

I can't get over how lucky you too are. 😉 You too got so lucky with the weather. Awesome. I've seen these views oh so many, so it was lovely watching this with a couple of chilled Canadians. The New Zealanders of the North. 😊 (many of us that have travelled compare Australia to the US.) You'll definitely need to visit Taranaki where I'm from.🙂 Bravo guys!

[@shivampatil1126]

Happy new year to everyone. Loved the Christmas video btw it was very unique ❤

[@brendaryan306]

I like your haircut. Also, I wish Amtrak would look so modern and chic. My late husband was in a wheelchair, so I love the bathroom accessibility. There is room to park the wheelchair next to the commode and also roll up under the sink. I didn't realize that New Zealand was mountainous,

[@clementbarrieu]

Amazing as usual. Posting quality videos this frequently is crazy

[@herenow6953]

OMG what a trip! That was THE perfect vlog and an amazing trip - what huge fun! Stunning views, puns a plenty and slapstick into the bargain! The ONLY thing i'd have to have given a wide berth to was the jazz - to me is like nails on a blackboard - excruciating - cannot stand it! haha! My problem I know. Happy New Year Mike and Seb!

[@tomtilden4611]

Great video! There’s a real diversity in the land in New Zealand. Loved the views ❤️

[@mariegarside8830]

What an awesome journey. This one goes on my bucket list. I'm green with envy seeing the views

[@RetroBull_YT]

Lord of the Rings journey would have been very short and less anxious had they gone first class to Mordor

[@Secretlyanothername]

but they would have got first, second, and third breakfasts

[@RetroBull_YT]

@Secretlyanothername facts!

[@lazydaisee3997]

Kiwi here: (wellington) 1. Apologies for the weather, its like winter outside right now. also Wellington is uber quiet now with uni out and most office types on summer holiday till mid Jan. 2. Hope you mingle and chat with the locals, honestly the world is full of nice scenery and NZ is like many other countries in that respect but I truly think the respectful and friendly nature of the avg kiwi is something that still sets NZ apart from many other places

[@dt7353]

Was just in New Zealand a couple months ago for vacation and it was amazing. This video brought back a lot of good memories.

[@Andy_M986]

Welcome To our little piece of Paradise mate. Safe travels.

[@russelljeffries8022]

Thanks for coming down to our wee patch of the world. It seems so long ago we started following you around YVR on your bike. We really appreciate your videos mate so stay safe and please keep doing what you do so well. 🍷

[@ShaneEngelman]

I just got off the TranzAlpine a few hours ago! I went all the way from Auckland to Greymouth with just ferry and train. Now I’m in Franz Josef via bus. What a great series of trains.

[@ednapuckett1042]

At the beginning of your video; it does remind me of Northern California.

[@Diane-cv7jb]

Big thank you for taking us along!

[@Smallbusiness0007]

its soo scenic and beautiful!!!!

[@TieuminhLife]

The journey on the train was amazing, and the scenery at the beach was truly impressive !

[@jamieshotter3655]

As a new zealander we have other places that have trains that are run by groups of volunteers if you ever come to waitara there is one that runs every 2nd Sunday and it cost $20 a person and it is cash to go on the train

[@GDETrust]

@@jamieshotter3655 there's also Glenbrook, near Auckland, the one near Waihi that heads into the gorge.

[@jamieshotter3655]

@GDETrust yes i have been to glenbrook and it is so amazing there and there are a few more around that i want to go to like bay of islands railway

[@MarkScholes-e4y]

Thanks for that video. We are cruising out of Auckland next year and now we are flying to Christchurch first and doing the trains.

[@MoyoGaming]

I did the Wellington to Auckland trip in first class too just before Christmas and it was amazing

[@helenemalenfant5435]

I remember Seb! What gorgeous scenery and a wonderful train experience. Loved the funicular too-remember your old funicular video and interest in them.

[@jcgrant1234]

I did this rail trip in reverse in 1990. The trains are different, but the beauty is all the same. Kaikoura on the South Island is a favorite memory. 🤩

[@mr.rodneygregg3445]

Beautiful scenery

[@Tubbkin]

As someone who can't afford to travel it's so nice to be able to see things through your videos. I've watched probably all of them lol. Jealous of the travels but thankful for the videos lol :D hope 2025 is full of super awesome adventures for you!

[@ctakitimu]

Ah, I have good memories of The Southerner. A 9 hour train ride between Christchurch and Invercargill.

[@kylegoolsby6837]

There is an excursion train that runs through the Ozarks in North West Arkansas. It's stops are Springdale, Van Buren, and Winslow. I would like to see you check it out. I plan to do so myself soon.

[@vsznry]

Happy New Year bro! Your puns were prob making your travel buddy want to dissapear into his seat lolol

[@scottoyo]

Yay a train trip in my country. Excited

[@vancouversworstdrivers]

I'm a New Zealand citizen but I have never been there (got it from birth through my mother) I want to go so bad! Possibly even retire there. Thanks for this!

[@shaunganley]

I loved everything about this video Downie. I was in NZ back in mid-November, started in Wellington, did the cable car ride too. Then took the Interislander ferry to South Island (much rougher seas than you had). I ended up driving to Christchurch from Picton and doing the train ride across Arthur's Pass. It's so interesting that you mentioned San Francisco, I thought the SAME thing with Wellington.

[@Bill_Gray-Pullman_Travels]

Another Mike/Seb spectacular trip! Thanks guys!

[@billgoeckel6344]

Great video as always Mike. You and Seb are great together Thanks

[@Rarkmeece]

Well this is getting added to the bucket list. Thanks for showing your travels! See you in the next

[@marymactavish]

I have seen videos of what that very crossing is like in a storm. I'm glad you didn't have a storm.

[@deborahway9280]

Gorgeous scenery and the train ride 🎉

[@LittleRainbowHappy]

So glad you made it to Aotearoa New Zealand. I was in Wellington over Christmas, and they set the lights in the cable car to Christmas mode which was lovely.

[@AZqyc]

What a great ride-along!! Thanks for sharing ... how really scenic that New Zealand, and the train is excellent. [Greetings from Tucson]

[@bop4022]

Wow, I was just in New Zealand doing a South Island Road Trip last week and this is something I didn't even know about! Will definitely add this to my list for next time! Such a beautiful country!

[@KD-fu8ob]

Great vid to start out the new year!

[@MK-xb2mu]

Even I scoffed at Mike's 'Mousse" joke LMAO

[@candacejackson5044]

It doesn't bother me, but it makes me laugh when I hear people say moist and laugh about it. Seb trying not to laugh or eyeroll at your "salty" joke. Of course you found another funicular. You guys rushing to the train to be early was too funny. Those food options were crazy amazing. That engineering marvel was cool. Great "cheesy" puns. Great job for Seb to do your outro. I do know where you are going next, since you gave a preview of what's to come, and I'll be right there for it as well. I have only been on a small section of the Alaska Railroad and the White Pass Yukon Railway up into Canada from Seward. But all your train videos have me wishing I could do more. I volunteer again, if you ever need a companion for a trip, I'm down. 😊

[@spiderkid6185]

I love your videos Mike! They inspire me to travel myself. I live in New Zealand, in the North Island (Hawkes Bay). I was wondering when you filmed this? Thanks for the fantastic, refreshing videos as something I can look forward too. It's nice to know that not every youtuber has to swear or do dumb stuff to be well known. Thanks Mike

[@Coogs42]

I'm doing the North Island Scenic Plus train later this year, seeing this video really hyped me up

[@dahigson]

I live in Christchurch. I hope you did the Tranzalpine. West Coast and back in one day... That trip is the one that makes the lists of World's Best Rail Journeys.

[@ThrifterPicker]

You remind me of a modern day Rick Steves (huge compliment) 😁

[@RollestonRails]

Heres a fun fact about the engine... was built by general motors in Canada in the 1980s. Been on the TranzAlpine myself the other train from Christchurch which is my hime town which was a wonderful experience aswell

[@M1_159]

11:18 - I've never seen someone do a handshake with both hands so casually before. That's was great hahaha

[@chriskeentechnician]

Awesome to see you in Christchurch! (my home town). A shame that you didn’t do the Tranz Alpine train to Greymouth, but you gotta save one for next time I guess 😛 I’m about to head to Pleasant Point to ride the steam train with my nephews 😁🚂

[@seanym67]

OMG, the 1 2 3 punch pun, often attempted but not landed. You nailed it.

[@louisetvancouver6161]

Super cool trip. Thanks Mike 😊

[@jarilautiainen1306]

I work for Kiwirail so Cheers

[@honeyb26]

Kia Ora! Loved seeing you enjoy the beautiful scenery along the Transpacific railway. We did it a few weeks ago a d it was stunning. You’ve inspired us to look into the retrain journey from Wellington to Auckland. Just wondering what time of year you did this? It looks like you had an absolute blast. Also loved the next adventure that you mentioned in the video. Such a cool experience.

[@caseylynch1993]

The food looks so fancy. This is definitely a bucket list train ride

[@andrew.d.london]

Great video Mike, as always. Happy New Year 🎉

[@isabelfaye3052]

Seeing New Zealand, makes me think of my old friend D. Wilson, wow he’s from the South Island. ❤ last I heard he got married to. Back in 90s. Wow. Lovely place. lol

[@tagara4812]

if you like these kind of tunnels, you have to come to southern Germany and get your ride on the "Sauschwänzle Bahn" (Pig tail train) , its a steam powered Museum train, on very windy track, with special tunnels