Arthur's Pass Discovery and TranzAlpine Train - Small Group Tour
Overview
Available languages
9 hours
Mobile ticket
In the heart of the Southern Alps, Arthur's Pass National Park has an incredible diversity of flora and landscape. Experience a breathtaking journey aboard the TranzAlpine Train winding it's way through the magnificent Waimakariri Gorge. Join short guided walks to rainforests, rivers and mountain vistas. Traveling in a small group, maximum eight participants, allows for an intimate and informative experience. Return to Christchurch in one of our luxury vehicles.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A percentage of the tour price is used for the conservation of New Zealand's wildlife, environment and it's endangered species
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
We will pick you up from your hotel and then drop you at the train station for the trip to Arthurs Pass on the TranzAlpine. Our guide will then meet you at Arthurs Pass, take you for lunch and a short walk before driving you back to Christchurch in a luxury vehicle.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
What To Expect
TranzAlpine Train
Journey across the wide expanses of the Canterbury Plains into high country surrounded by rugged mountain ranges. After leaving the Canterbury Plains, the landscape dramatically changes into sub-alpine we head towards the spectacular Southern Alps. View the Waimakariri River and its unique braided riverbed system. Enter Arthur’s Pass National Park where short walks can be made to experience forests, rivers and mountains vistas.
Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre
Follow the old stage coach route and travel down the spectacular Otira Gorge, testament to the road builders of the 1860's and the route taken by the Maori in their quest for greenstone. View Cave Stream where it burrows underground in an area of limestone cliffs and gorges, craggy outcrops and a setting of mountains to the east and west. This area was also used as for the filming of C.J Lewis’ story – “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”. The incredible Castle Hill rocks, unique weatherworn, rain smoothed outcrops of limestone are seen from the highway. Lunch at a country hotel, included in cost of tour.
What‘s Included
Light refreshments
Travel by TranzAlpine train
Local guide
Guided walks of Arthur's Pass National Park
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Christchurch hotels
Lunch at a country cafe
Cruise port pickup is not available
Gratuities
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Arthur's Pass National Park with TranzAlpine Train Tour from Christchurch
Pickup included
Reviews
295 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Canterbury Trails Rail Adventure
Susan M O,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an absolutely lovely day with our guide Mary from Canterberry Trails. She picked us up at our hotel at 7:30 and dropped us at the train and made sure we had our seats then met us at Arthur’s Pass when the train pulled in about 10: 40.We got back in our small bus ( there were 6 of us) and stopped at several lookouts, had a beautiful 30 minute walk then ate a great lunch at the Cafe in Arthur’s Pass. I can recommend the loaded french fries, the burrito and cheese burger, they were all yummy. It was fun getting to know the 3 others on our bus and Mary was a delight, so personable! We then explored the Castle Rocks followed by tea and biscuits provided by Mary. We returned home about 4:30 however Mary was willing to do a quick tour of downtown which we opted out of since we had toured the day before. It was a great tour and Mary was very informative throughout. I highly recommend Mary - you will not be disappointed! 👏😊 Susan Oakley Rockport, Texas USA Susan
Canterbury Trippin’ Cooks Mountain and a cheeky bird
alexandraaZ4196KW,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our Canterbury trails trip was amazing! Our guide Maureen was knowledgeable, kind and funny. She really made the trip a 10! The Tranzalpine train was also very beautiful and interesting
Excellent tour
Viajeroslinjim,Mar 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Dave did an awesome trip for us. Both Arthur’s pass and the day trip to Aoraki. Highly recommend their service and care.
Arthur’s Pass guided tour
Cruiser54949728954,Mar 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a fantastic day with a ride up on the train, getting off at Arthur’s Pass and then meeting up with Grant, our driver. Grant took us to a hike up to a beautiful waterfalls, then lunch and home stopping at Castle Hill Rocks. Grant was a great guide keeping us informed and interested in all things Kiwi. (Don’t forget headphones for the train ride.)
Wonderful Experience
Meander54226999319,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We loved Hugo!! He was so kind and helpful and knew so much about the history of Christchurch. We were with him for 2 days and went fly fishing the first day, then drove to Authur’s Pass the second. It was amazing and I would recommend to everyone!
New Zealand mountains from Christchurch
M7473SWjimc,Mar 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a wonderful day! The alpine New Zealand sights were spectacular, and Ollie was the best guide ever - warm, informative, and interesting. Thanks!
Arthur’s Pass (and SO Much More)!
ChrisHardyRealtor,Mar 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00From the wonderful rail service to our accommodating and seasoned small group tour guide, John, this trip will be one well remembered for many years!! not only was the landscape along the rail line up to Arthur’s Pass spectacular, the flora and fauna portion of the motor coach tour back to Christchurch marvelous. We saw Kea and all manner of local birds along the nature hike and then an unexpected highlight was the Kura Tāwhiti rock formations stop! Stunning experience! Highly Recommended!
Train to Arthur’s Pass and van return
DavidF745,Mar 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mary was wonderful and so willing to accommodate us. Picked us up at hotel and brought us back.
Don’t miss it!
jexpat,Mar 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The park itself is stunning. The train ride is beyond incredibly beautiful. That we got to see it all even more thoroughly with this tour is icing on the cake. Ollie picked us up at our hotel in Christchurch and drove us to the train station. He got us situated on the train and told us what to expect. 2+ hours later, he was waiting for us as we disembarked. Ollie took us to many scenic points, on a hike up to Devil’s Punchbowl waterfall, and then to lunch at Grasmere sheep station (a good selection of delicious food). Ollie was knowledgeable, friendly, funny, and a pleasure to spend the whole day with. We highly recommend this tour, as well as Ollie leading it.
Great day out at Arthur's Pass
N8646JPstuartl,Mar 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Ollie, our guide for the day, was exceptional. He arrived promptly and we were on our way. Throughout the day he gave us some great information, and he was friendly throughout. Overall it was a fantastic experience, thanks Ollie!
From NZ$895.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Canterbury Trails