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Arthur's Pass National Park Day Tour with TranzAlpine Train

221 Reviews 4.67 out of 5 stars Based on 221 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 94% of reviewers | Christchurch, New Zealand
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 30 (0) days in advance.

9 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Overview

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.

What's Included

  • Tranz Alpine train journey Christchurch to Arthurs Pass one-way
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • • Visit to Kura Tāwhiti / Castle Hill
  • Lunch
  • Meals
  • Gratuities
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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

We pickup from most Hotels, Motels & Backpackers in Christchurch City Center Some Air BnBs if central city

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability.
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Canterbury Region

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.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

TranzAlpine Train

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
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2 hours Admission Ticket Included

Otira Viaduct Lookout

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
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Devils Punchbowl Walking Track

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.
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45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Arthur's Pass

relax at a mountain café (own expense). Keep watch for the cheeky kea, New Zealand’s intelligent alpine parrot often seen in the area.
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45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Castle Hill

Kura Tawhiti / Castle Hill, an extraordinary landscape of ancient limestone boulders.
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45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Christchurch

Return to Christchurch
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Show 6 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Service animals allowed
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Tour may operate in reverse - so Tranzalpine train from Arthur's Pass to Christchurch

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Arthur’s Pass National Park Day Tour with TranzAlpine Train?

A: This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded. This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

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Activity code: C-2950P53

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.67
221 reviews

Average 4.67 out of 5 stars based on 221 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
171
4 stars
37
3 stars
6
2 stars
3
1 star
4
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 30 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Tranz Alpine train journey Christchurch to Arthurs Pass one-way
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • • Visit to Kura Tāwhiti / Castle Hill
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Expert local commentary
  • Lunch
  • Meals
  • Gratuities

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Service animals allowed
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Tour may operate in reverse - so Tranzalpine train from Arthur's Pass to Christchurch
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers

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