What better way to see the alpine scenes of New Zealand’s South Island than by train! No designated driver. No missed photo opportunities. And no traffic! The TranzAlpine train journey takes you from the bustling city of Christchurch to Greymouth, the heart of the West Coast. Make it a day trip. Enjoy a week adventuring around the West Coast before heading back to Christchurch. The options are endless. Travel coast to coast on the TranzAlpine train!
Leave the car behind and book a couple of seats on this comfortable, spacious train. Travelling by train has long been a popular means of transport for kiwis, with trains covering popular links including Auckland to Wellington and Christchurch to Picton. The TranzAlpine will make you fall back in love with the journey, with breathtaking scenes from start to finish.
There’s a lot of ground to cover when exploring New Zealand’s South Island, and this is an ideal way to see a huge chunk of the unique sights. The Canterbury Plains, the Southern Alps, native beech forests and the rugged West Coast – it’s an incredibly picturesque journey that you don’t want to miss.
Starting in Christchurch and heading into the mountains is an enticing feeling. Settle in and enjoy the view through the huge glass windows. Listen to the commentary through your headset at your seat and grab a coffee and treat from the onboard cafe. Stretch your legs and head out to the open-air carriage for magnificent views!
Just as you start to feel like you need some fresh air, you pull into Arthurs Pass station. Hop off the train and wander around the platform. Cross your fingers for a bit of snow. Arthurs Pass is 737m above sea level and there are plenty of photo opportunities!
Over bridges, alongside rivers and through tunnels. The excitement peaks as you roll through the 8.5km long Otira Tunnel and pop out to see more mountainous landscapes. Rain or shine, make sure you head out to that open-air carriage. What a way to feel up close and personal with the increbible nature that passes by. Whether you’re snapping heaps of photos or holding on and embracing the breeze, it’s a must!
Arriving at Greymouth just after 1pm means you’ve got plenty of time to explore! Why not stay overnight and hop aboard the TranzAlpine back to Christchurch the following afternoon.
Greymouth is dubbed ‘the heart of the West Coast’, with native bush fringing the town and stunning sunsets over the coast. Dumb your overnight bags at your accomodation and check out the Kings Park Walk! A great walk through the bush with views over the entire town. Fuel up at Monteith’s Brewery – a crowd favourite, and enjoy a night on the coast before boarding the TranzAlpine again the next day.
The TranzAlpine opens doors to plenty of potential getaways! If you’re road-tripping on the West Coast, venture over to Christchurch for a few nights and then back to your car in Greymouth. Be sure to allocate a few extra days on your South Island trip to jump aboard the TranzAlpine.
What a way to experience these South Island scenes. No driving on this journey! Take in the sights, sounds and utter serenity on the TranzAlpine. Plan your journey here with Great Journeys of New Zealand.
This content was created in paid partnership with Great Journeys of New Zealand.
