TranzAlpine Train
One of the world's great scenic rail journeys, running from Christchurch across the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps to the West Coast town of Greymouth in about 5 hours.
TranzAlpine is a scenic train run by KiwiRail in New Zealand. The full route is about 223 km. It departs from Christchurch Station, crosses the flat Canterbury Plains, then climbs alongside the braided riverbeds and gorges of the Waimakariri River. It passes over Arthur's Pass (about 737 metres above sea level) in the Southern Alps and through the roughly 8.5 km Otira Tunnel, then descends into the rainforests of the West Coast and reaches Greymouth, about 5 hours one way. The carriages have large panoramic windows, and the open-air observation carriage is ideal for photos in the mountain breeze. An English audio commentary runs throughout the journey. There is one round trip a day, departing in the morning and returning in the afternoon. You can make a same-day return or get off at stops along the way. The most recommended plan is to get off at Arthur's Pass station (about 2.5 hours in), hike in Arthur's Pass National Park (for example the Devil's Punchbowl Falls track, about 1 hour return), then take the afternoon return train or a rental car back to Christchurch. Fares vary by class and date. One-way tickets cost around NZD 150 or more (check the official website), and peak-season seats should be booked early. Christchurch Station is in Addington, southwest of the city centre, about 10 minutes by taxi. Note: snow in winter can sometimes cause delays.
Opening hours
One round-trip daily (departs Christchurch about 08:15 in the morning; check timetable)
Nearby sights
- Hagley Park & Christchurch Botanic Gardens
- Mona Vale
- Riccarton House & Bush
- Punting on the Avon
- The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora
- Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū
- Bridge of Remembrance
- Riverside Market