• TranzAlpine Train - After picking up guests from their selected location around 7:00 am, they are transferred to the TranzAlpine for one of the world’s most picturesque rail journeys. Passengers can enjoy stunning alpine views through panoramic windows or from the open-air carriage. The guide will meet them at Arthur’s Pass Station to commence the mountain tour.
• Arthur’s Pass National Park - While guests enjoy the train ride, the guide travels ahead to greet them directly on the platform at Arthur’s Pass Station. From there, the journey continues to the Otira Viaduct lookout for breathtaking views, including the vibrant red Rata flowers in summer. Visitors should watch for the cheeky Kea, New Zealand’s curious alpine parrot! The mountain exploration proceeds with a visit to the beautiful Avalanche Creek Waterfall and several other scenic highlights within the National Park.
• Devils Punchbowl Walking Track - The afternoon’s highlight is the highly recommended Devils Punchbowl walking track. This leisurely 1-hour return walk takes visitors through lush beech forest to the base of a roaring 131-metre waterfall. The sheer force of the water and the mist on the face make this an unforgettable alpine experience.
• Arthur’s Pass National Park Visitor Centre - After the walk, guests can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation in the charming Arthur’s Pass village. There is ample time to have lunch at a local cafe, explore the historic visitor centre, or simply soak up the tranquil mountain atmosphere before continuing the journey.
• Lake Pearson - The return journey to Christchurch takes a different road route, showcasing scenery not visible from the train tracks. The first stop is the tranquil Lake Pearson, known for its glassy, mirror-like reflections of the surrounding mountains—a photographer’s paradise and an ideal spot for a peaceful afternoon break.
• Flock Hill Station - At Flock Hill, visitors can discover the stunning ‘Narnia’ filming location. This site was featured in Disney’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe as the main battlefield—a spectacular setting surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Craigieburn Valley.
• Castle Hill / Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area - The final highlight is experiencing the ‘Treasure from Afar’ at Kura Tāwhiti. To the Ngāi Tahu iwi, this area holds Tōpuni status—a symbolic cloak of protection over its sacred values. As visitors walk the easy access track, they can look for traces of 500-year-old charcoal drawings and learn how these rocks were formed 30 million years ago when New Zealand was still under a shallow inland sea.
• Christchurch - Leaving the mountains behind, the journey continues across the vast Canterbury Plains. There is one final, delightful stop in the rural town of Sheffield to see the famous giant doughnut—a must-photo landmark! From there, it’s a relaxing final leg back to the city, where farewells are exchanged and guests are dropped off at their chosen location.

• On-board WiFi
• National Park fees
• Transport by air-conditioned late model Minibus
• Fully guided tour except the walks
• Small group
• Bottle water and light snacks
• Pickup and drop-off from selected Central Christchurch Hotels
• TranzAlpine Train Tickets from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass

• Lunch

Embark on a scenic expedition on the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass, renowned as one of the most picturesque train journeys globally. Soak in the captivating sights of the Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps, the glacier-fed Waimakariri River, verdant beech woodlands and awe-inspiring panoramas. Traverse hiking trails in Arthur’s Pass National Park featuring impressive mountain vistas & untouched waterfalls. Reflect on nature’s beauty at Lake Pearson & meander among the grand limestone formations at Castle Hill. An ideal day excursion for those passionate about nature, hiking & thrilling adventures.

• A small amount of walking is involved.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Fully guided tour except the walks in the National Park & Castle Hill.
• Bring your phone, USB charger & headphones to enjoy the audio commentary on the TranzAlpine Train.
• Maximise your scenery with our confirmed morning train tickets during winter months (May to September). By travelling earlier in the day, you enjoy full daylight for the entire journey—perfect for capturing the spectacular winter landscapes.
• Please note this tour may operate in reverse during summer from October to April. If morning train tickets are sold out, you will travel from Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch in the afternoon. Since the sun sets late in summer, you will still enjoy the entire journey in full daylight with spectacular views.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.