From Christchurch: Arthur's Pass with TranzAlpine & Lunch
Grey District, Christchurch
Explore Arthur's Pass with expert Kiwi guides, then return aboard the iconic TranzAlpine train. Discover Castle Hill, alpine lakes, and spot native Kea parrots. Lunch included.
This day tour from Christchurch explores Arthur's Pass and the Southern Alps, ideal for nature lovers and small groups seeking guided alpine experiences.
Highlights
- Return aboard the iconic TranzAlpine train with open-air viewing carriages
- Explore Castle Hill's limestone rocks that inspired Middle Earth™ and Narnia
- Spot the Kea, New Zealand's alpine parrot found nowhere else on Earth
- Hike to Devils Punchbowl waterfall or explore Arthur's Pass Village at your own pace
- Travel carbon-neutral with expert Kiwi guides; lunch and snacks included
Description
Discover the Southern Alps on a full-day Arthur's Pass tour from Christchurch. Travel in a premium Mercedes Sprinter through Canterbury's alpine region with WiFi, USB charging, and bottled water included.
Your expert Kiwi guide shares insights on Māori history and local landscapes. The route crosses braided rivers and includes a stop at Waimakariri Gorge for riverside walks. An optional jet boat ride on the gorge is available on the day.
Visit Castle Hill to see ancient limestone formations featured in Middle Earth™ and The Chronicles of Narnia. Explore alpine lakes such as Lake Pearson and Lake Lyndon nestled in the Craigieburn Range. At Otira Viaduct Lookout, admire the engineering feat and watch for the endemic Kea parrot.
At Arthur's Pass Village, choose to hike the Devils Punchbowl Track through native beech forest to the waterfall, or relax in the village cafes and shops.
The return trip on the TranzAlpine train features open-air viewing carriages for panoramic views over braided rivers, high-country farms, and mountains.
Travel is carbon-neutral with all emissions offset. This small-group tour includes lunch, expert guiding, and hotel pickup/drop-off from 16 central Christchurch locations. Note that in winter the itinerary runs in reverse.
Includes
- TranzAlpine train ticket (Arthur's Pass to Christchurch)
- Expert Kiwi guide with live commentary (English)
- Small-group tour for personalized attention
- Lunch and Kiwi snacks
- All entry fees to accessible areas
- Bottled water throughout the day
- 100% carbon-neutral tour with emissions offset
- Premium Mercedes Sprinter transport with air conditioning
- Free WiFi and USB charging ports onboard
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from 16 central Christchurch locations
Excludes
- Optional jet boat ride at Waimakariri Gorge (bookable on the day)
Important Information
- The train is scheduled to arrive in Christchurch at 7:00 PM; delays are possible. Allow extra time for onward travel connections.
- TranzAlpine bookings are managed by Great Journeys New Zealand and are not responsible for missed connections due to train delays.
- Your driver will update you on the train departure time throughout the day.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring warm clothing and sturdy footwear. The tour operates year-round, with the itinerary reversed during winter months.
