Arthur's Pass National Park Day Tour with TranzAlpine Train

Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic alpine journeys combining scenic rail travel with a guided exploration of Arthur’s Pass National Park. Travel from Christchurch through ever-changing landscapes, from wide open plains to rugged mountain peaks, and discover dramatic natural scenery shaped by glaciers, rivers, and time.

Itinerary

1. Following a morning pickup by air-conditioned coach from your Christchurch hotel, transfer to the Christchurch Railway Station where you will board the TranzAlpine train. This has been rated as one of the top 10 train journeys in the world. (30 min)
2. We invite you to join us on a tour of discovery, featuring spectacular scenery. From Christchurch board the world famous TranzAlpine train through to Arthurs Pass (2h 0min) Admission included
3. before viewing and driving down the 440 meter long Otira Viaduct a major NZ engineering project - the viaduct is one the most earthquake prone regions in New Zealand and it has been designed to withstand seismic forces 40 percent higher than the usual maximum for such structures. In the late summer months the bright flowers of red rata (metrosideros umbellata) add to the beauty of the Otira Gorge. This tree is not found on the eastern side of the Southern Alps but blooms only in the moist western valleys, you will also encounter the NZ Kea rated as one of the most intelligent birds in the world they have very inquisitive natures and found in most South Island alpine environments. The one hour time period is the time spent in total travelling to, from and on the the Viaduct from Arthurs Pass with stops (1h 0min)
4. Your Driver/guide will then recommend you some popular walks in the National Park with incredible views, weather & time permitting. The time spent here is approximately the entire amount of time spent In the Arthurs Pass Village during the day, possibly longer if the lunch option is taken in the village. (45 min)
5. Time for lunch at a local cafe & explore the village of Arthur's Pass. On leaving Arthur’s Pass you will travel by road through the foothill ranges of the Southern Alps, in the basins with winter snow there are several small ski fields and with unique limestone rocks surrounding the area this is also popular for rock climbers. (1h 0min) Admission included
6. Make a visit at a working sheep farm set among a beautiful alpine and high country backdrop. Here you will be able to see sheepdogs at work, watch a sheep shearing demonstration and enjoy a late afternoon tea. (1h 0min) Admission included
7. Return to Christchurch (1h 0min)