About this experience
Explore Arthur's Pass with expert Kiwi guides, then return aboard the iconic TranzAlpine train (reverse in winter) with lunch included. Discover Castle Hill, alpine lakes, and spot native Kea parrots.
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 cheeky Kea—New Zealand's alpine parrot found nowhere else on Earth
- Hike to Devils Punchbowl waterfall or explore Arthur's Pass Village at leisure
- Travel carbon-neutral with expert Kiwi guides—lunch and snacks included
What's included
- TranzAlpine train ticket (Arthur's Pass to Christchurch)
- Expert Kiwi guide with live commentary (English)
- Small-group tour for personalized attention
- Lunch
- All entry fees to accessible areas
- Kiwi snacks
- Bottled water throughout the day
- 100% carbon-neutral tour—all 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
How to use
- Show Mobile Ticket
- At Redemption Counter
What to expect
Discover the breathtaking Southern Alps on this unforgettable Arthur's Pass day tour from Christchurch. Journey in premium comfort through Canterbury's stunning alpine region before returning on the world-famous TranzAlpine train—one of the world's most spectacular rail experiences.
Your expert Kiwi guide brings the landscape to life with stories of Māori history and local insights as you travel through Canterbury's dramatic scenery. Cross iconic braided rivers and stop at Waimakariri Gorge for riverside walks surrounded by mountain vistas. Thrill-seekers can add an optional jet boat experience through the gorge.
Marvel at Castle Hill's ancient limestone formations that inspired Middle Earth™ and became a filming location for The Chronicles of Narnia. Visit pristine alpine lakes including Lake Pearson and Lake Lyndon, beautifully nestled in the Craigieburn Range. At the Otira Viaduct Lookout, witness this engineering marvel spanning the dramatic gorge while watching for New Zealand's cheeky alpine parrot, the Kea—found nowhere else on Earth.
Arriving at Arthur's Pass Village in the heart of the National Park, choose your own adventure. Hike the Devils Punchbowl Track through native beech forest to a thundering 154-meter waterfall, or wander the charming village shops with a coffee in hand.
Then comes your tour highlight—the return journey aboard the iconic TranzAlpine train Step into the open-air viewing carriage for panoramic alpine vistas as you glide past braided rivers, high-country sheep stations, and ever-changing mountain landscapes.
Travel carbon-neutral in a premium Mercedes Sprinter with WiFi, USB charging and fresh bottled water onboard.
Small-group experience with included lunch and expert guiding. 100% Kiwi-owned and operated.
Please note that this itinerary is run in reverse in winter.
Terms & conditions
Please note our driver will keep you updated on the time to catch your train back to the city.
Note: the Train is scheduled to arrive Christchurch at 7:00 PM but delays are possible - if you have onward travel plans, we recommend allowing extra time to ensure you have ample time for any connection. TranzAlpine bookings are managed by Great Journeys New Zealand, who cannot be held responsible for any missed connections due to delayed train arrivals.