TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip
Overview
Available languages
10 hours
Mobile ticket
Experience the South Island's remarkable natural landscapes by taking a journey on the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass, which is considered one of the world's greatest train journeys for the scenery through which it passes. Enjoy breathtaking views of Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps, ice-fed Waimakariri River, lush beech forests and stunning landscapes. Explore walking tracks in Arthur's Pass National Park with spectacular mountain views & pristine waterfalls. Capture mirror images at Lake Pearson & wander through the majestic limestone boulders at Castle Hill. A perfect day trip for nature lovers, hikers & adventure seekers.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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.
We have designed our itinerary with a dedicated break at [Arthur's Pass National Park], giving you the freedom to explore the local cafes and choose a meal that suits your appetite.
What To Expect
TranzAlpine Train
Once we’ve collected you from your chosen location around 7:00 am, we transfer you to the TranzAlpine for one of the world's most scenic rail journeys. Enjoy breathtaking alpine vistas from panoramic windows or the open-air carriage. Your guide will meet you at Arthur's Pass Station to begin your mountain tour.
Arthur's Pass National Park
While you enjoy the rail journey, your guide travels ahead to meet you right on the platform at Arthur’s Pass Station. From there, we’ll drive to the Otira Viaduct lookout for spectacular views—including the vibrant red Rata flowers during summer. Keep an eye out for the cheeky Kea, New Zealand’s inquisitive alpine parrot! Our mountain exploration continues with a visit to the stunning Avalanche Creek Waterfall and several other scenic highlights within the National Park.
Options
TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip
Pickup included
What‘s Included
WiFi on board
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
Pickup points
Fino Hotel & Suites
87 Kilmore Street Christchurch New Zealand
Chateau on the Park - Christchurch, a DoubleTree by Hilton
189 Dean Avenue, Riccarton Christchurch New Zealand
Adina Heritage Christchurch
28 - 30 Cathedral Square, Christchurch New Zealand
Crowne Plaza Christchurch By IHG
764 Colombo Street, Armagh St. Christchurch New Zealand
Hotel Montreal
363 Montreal Street Christchurch New Zealand
The Mayfair Hotel Christchurch
155 Victoria Street Christchurch New Zealand
Distinction Christchurch Hotel
14 Cathedral Square Christchurch New Zealand
Quest on Kilmore
93 Kilmore Street Christchurch New Zealand
Wyndham Garden Christchurch City
64 Kilmore Street Christchurch New Zealand
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
476 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Definitely recommend in Christchurch
Lisa W,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a fantastic day. It was a great way to see the country side as well as explore the forest and see the waterfalls at Arthur's Pass. VJ was our tour guide and he was very knowledgeable. We started the day by taking the Alpine Train to Arthur's pass. Then VJ took us to beautiful scenic spot and showed us where filming took place for the Lion the witch and the wardrobe. He also shared NZ snacks with us. It was a wonderful way to spend a day in Christchurch.
I did enjoy our tour from...
Kenneth M,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I did enjoy our tour from Christchurch via TranzAlpine to Arthurs’ path and back to the city. Our tour guide are accommodating and providing good insights and explanation. He provides guidance or alternative activity for some who cant do a hike. We did a couple of small stops for scenic lookout when we are going back to the City. The tour was not rush and we are able to be back to the city earlier than expected Highly recommended tour!
Loved it
Penny S,Jun 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Thoroughly enjoyed this trip. Commentary from our driver was great and he was very accommodating. Shame the weather was not good but still loved it
Anuj is a superb tour...
Nathan T,May 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Anuj is a superb tour guide, one of the best I have ever had! He was very knowledgeable and flexible.
A worthy day trip
54selinaa,May 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was really a wonderful journey
Fun times with great people of all cultures
Leanne T,May 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Pack a warm jacket and glasses as when you go out and enjoy the open carriage on the train trip it can be a bit cold and dusty. Our guide for the day was Anuj. Abuja is everything and more that you'd expect of a tour guide operator. Knowledgeable, friendly and professional are only a few reasons why you would hipe to have him as your guide. Anuj was also very funny which helps when you have a tour group with mixed culture. The views during this whole experience was breathtaking and we would do it again in a heart beat
Don't miss this stellar tour even if it's a wet and rainy day!
starefun,May 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our driver and guide for the day, Anuj was superb. Despite the mix-up of seating arrangements by the Train Operator, he ensured that seating arrangements were all sorted before the TranzAlpine departed Christchurch Train station. I loved that TranzAlpine had a dedicated App that one could tune in to enjoy the commentaries of various stops like Springfield, Sheffield and the Staircase Viaduct. The seats were comfortable, and many like myself took turns to enter the open-aired viewing carriages for pristine views of the mountains and valleys; not to mention breathe in the fresh alpine air that we can't take home with us. Upon alighting at Arthur's Pass station, Anuj took over the driver and commentary. Despite the fact that we had rain weather throughout the trip, our spirits were not dampened as he encouraged us to stop for photos throughout the many stops along the way. Even though I was the only one on the trip who trekked the Devil's Punchbowl waterfall loop, Anuj managed the group dynamics well with the others having a longer stop at Arthur's Pass village. I still managed to have a quick Fish and Chips meal by the Tavern at Arthur's Pass village, and it was the best Fish and Chips I had in my NZ trip. As Anuj mentioned, many of the guests have feedback that their highlight for the trip is Castle Hill. He was absolutely spot on. Again, I was the only one who walked the entire loop amongst the majestic towering limestone rocks at Castle Hill. It was almost a spiritual and surreal experience to be walking amongst these towering rocks. Don't miss it even if there's a downpour! Last but not least, I really want to thank Anuj for managing the trip well, knowing that I have to be at Christchurch Airport in the evening. We arrived back in Christchurch for me to collect my luggage and catch a public bus to the Airport for my flight out of Christchurch.
Highly recommended! Anuj...
sue o,May 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Highly recommended! Anuj our guide was fabulous, highly knowledgeable and super friendly. Enjoyed everything we saw and the walks were spectacular!
Fabulous day trip
Kathy E,May 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great day out. So good to break up the day with part train and then driven around to castle hill etc. Fabulous driver and very knowledgeable
Very nice day of discoveries.
Robert C,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Very nice day of discoveries. Beautiful landscapes, very knowledgeable staff. To be included in your planning.
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Operated by NZSI Tours & Travel