Transfers Culture & history Sightseeing Public transportation tickets

Situated in the heart of the South Island, Christchurch, or Ōtautahi, is a stellar example of what happens when urban innovation collides with nature, heritage, and culture.

Highlights

• Carbon neutral 1 way tour to Christchurch from Franz Josef
• Greymouth to Christchurch train tour aboard the world famous TranzAlpine
• Hokitika - including the option to visit the Hokitika Gorge
• Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks

Description

Franz Josef - We start by leaving Franz Josef, or Kā Roimata o Hinehukatere, and head north along State Highway 6 towards our first stop. Lake Ianthe (5 minutes) - Surrounded by hills and native podocarp forests with a large flax swamp at its southern end, the lake is an important home for endangered wetland species such as the Great Crested Grebe. Hokitika (1 hour 30 minutes) - This ‘Cool Little Town’ is famous for its rugged black sand and driftwood laden coastline. After a brief photo stop at the beach to take in the surf and views of the Tasman Sea, you have the option to again explore the local shops or join the group on a trip to the Hokitika Gorge. Hokitika Gorge (1 hour) - Perhaps one of the West Coast’s most iconic and photographed spots, on a fine day, its striking turquoise waters frame a distinct contrast from the mature native podocarp forest that borders it. With various lookout points offering different angles of the enchanting river, it is an incredibly popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The track itself is easy and undulating. Cobden Breakwater* (5 minutes) - Located just a short drive away from the centre of Greymouth, Cobden is a beach break with a rock breakwater at its southern end, producing incredible waves that pound right up against the structure. It’s a rugged but picturesque photo spot. Greymouth and the TranzAlpine (GRZ-CHCH) - Upon arrival in Greymouth, our guide will drop you off at the Greymouth Train Station. As the largest town in the Westland region, Greymouth, or Māwhera, is home to about 14,000 people. Framed by chiseled cliff tops, wild beaches, the Grey River and the picturesque Grey Valley, this charming destination is not only a beautiful spot, but a key transit hub and community for the West Coast. It is here that you will catch the TranzAlpine and return to Christchurch. Enjoy the views from the train’s open air carriage as you travel through the 8km long Otira tunnel, around horseshoe bends, past high country stations and alpine lakes, and across braided rivers. This ever-changing landscape is beautiful all year round, allowing you to sit back and relax and take it all in. Christchurch - Upon arrival in Christchurch, our guide will pick you up from the train station before dropping you off at your pick up point. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about! Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks. The TranzAlpine’s departure from Greymouth is 2:15pm and arrival into Christchurch is 7pm. However, the service can experience delays so please bear this in when booking this product. This may mean that you might not be able to have time for the views in Cobden. Please be aware and patient if this occurs. As the train’s operators, Great Journeys are the first point of contact if you experience any issues while aboard the TranzAlpine.

Includes

Small group size Carbon neutral 1 way tour to Christchurch from Franz Josef Greymouth to Christchurch train tour aboard the world famous TranzAlpine Picture perfect scenery - including of Cobden Breakwater and Lake Ianthe Hokitika - including the option to visit the Hokitika Gorge Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks WiFi and USB charging Commentary 100% Kiwi as experience

Important Information

• For a smooth pick-up process please be waiting at your selected pick-up location at least 15 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time. Your vehicle may be delayed due to previous pickups. Please be patient and wait 10 minutes before calling the office. Our drivers cannot wait for late customers. No show / late customers will not be refunded. We only pick up from locations that have a pickup noted. Please make sure you have let us know your pickup location. For hotel pickups please be waiting at or Infront of reception. Haka House Franz Josef Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier Bella Vista Motel Franz Josef

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund