TranzAlpine and Arthur's Pass Day Tour from Christchurch
Overview
Available languages
12 hours
Mobile ticket
Journey through the breathtaking Southern Alps aboard the iconic TranzAlpine train, one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Departing from Christchurch, travel through dramatic river gorges and alpine passes before disembarking in Arthur’s Pass (May–September) or Greymouth (October–April), where you’ll meet your guide and continue by modern Mercedes Sprinter.
Enjoy free time in Arthur’s Pass Village to explore, walk to the impressive Devils Punchbowl Waterfall, or relax with a coffee, before returning via scenic stops at the remarkable Otira Viaduct and the unique limestone formations of Castle Hill, renowned for their natural beauty and cinematic history.
- Scenic 10-hour experience combining the TranzAlpine train and guided return journey
- Free time in Arthur’s Pass Village for walking, exploring, or relaxing
- Visit the iconic Otira Viaduct and Castle Hill’s unique limestone landscapes
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
Tour duration includes travel time between locations
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
TranzAlpine Train
Your day starts at Christchurch Train Station, where you'll board the TranzAlpine, consistently ranked among the world's most scenic rail journeys. Settle in and watch the city fade into the Canterbury Plains, before river valleys narrow and the Southern Alps close in around you. There's an open-air viewing carriage you need to check out! May - September: disembark train in Arthur's Pass October - April: disembark train in Greymouth
During the winter months (May - September) disembark in Arthur's Pass, or in summer months (October - April) disembark in Greymouth. From there you will meet your guide, and board our modern Mercedes Sprinter for the return journey.
What‘s Included
TranzAlpine train ticket - Christchurch to Arthur's Pass (May - September)
TranzAlpine train ticket - Christchurch to Greymouth (October - April)
Fully guided small group bus tour
One hour at Arthur's Pass Village (walk or explore, your choice)
No restroom on bus
Lunch
Hotel pick up
Options
Tour - Train to Arthurs Pass
TranzAlpine Train: Christchurch to Arthur's Pass (May - September)
Christchurch to Greymouth (October - April)
Duration: 10 hours: Tour duration includes travel time between locations
Minibus
Reviews
4 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Train and bus through Arthur's Pass
gregu997,Apr 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a fabulous tour through Arthur's Pass. Firstly by train, great scenery. Then back by bus over the hills and stopped for a few walks. Even better scenery! Really great trip and would highly recommend! Thanks Cheeky Kiwiw😀
Great day trip
tothzsuzsi,Apr 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Good way to spend a day from Chch. The train is fun and the way back is very interesting at Castle hill. Our guide was friendly with good chats and the van was comfy and spacious.
Best Arthurs Pass Tour
MattyBerrry,Apr 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing tour!!! Arthurs Pass is so stunning and it's great to experience it by road and by rail. Our guide Grant was superb and his knowledge about the area was really impressive. I can't recommend this tour highly enough. One of my best days in NZ.
A TranzAlpine delight.
missDmeanour,Apr 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I was booked onto a day tour, but as I was the only guest, I was kindly offered the option to change my destination to Mount Cook or to travel between Christchurch and Greymouth return by train in both directions, rather than the usual bus return. The communication from Cheeky Kiwi Travel was excellent, via email, text, and even a phone call, to keep me updated on my options and on the problem the TranzAlpine train encountered at Springfield, requiring minor plan adjustments. I'm a very satisfied customer. Thank you.
From NZ$449.00
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Operated by Cheeky Kiwi Travel