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TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

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Overview

Available languages

English

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

A small amount of walking is involved.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.

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.

Tour may operate in reverse order; where train will be booked from Arthur's Pass to Christchurch, if morning tickets are sold out.

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

WiFi on board

National Park fees

Transport by air-conditioned late model Minibus.

Fully guided tour except the walks.

TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass.

Small group

Bottle water and light snacks

Pickup and drop-off from selected Central Christchurch Hotels.

Lunch

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

What To Expect

1

Christchurch Cathedral

After pick-up from your hotel at 7.30am, your guide will drop you to the train station in Christchurch for one of the greatest train journey's in the world. Travel on the TranzAlpine train & admire the stunning scenery through panoramic windows & open air viewing decks. Disembark the train at Arthur's Pass National Park where you will meet your guide again.

Admission Not Applicable
2

Otira Viaduct Lookout

Then drive down to Otira Viaduct which provide impressive views of red flowering rata in summer months & grab the opportunity to spot the inquisitive Kea (alpine parrot) well known for its cheeky nature.

30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Options

TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

Pickup included

Reviews

4.83

362 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

310
44
6
1
1
  • A great day out

    Anonymous,

    Sep 17, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Awesome day our driver was fantastic from his pickup from our hotel to delivering us back. The train journey was great with many photo opportunities, the scenery did not disappoint. At Arthur’s Pass we came back by mini coach. We stopped at many spots on the way back to Christchurch highlights were Otira Viaduct, Devils Punchbowl and Castle Hill Boulders. Thoroughly recommend this tour. A wonderful day out.

  • Awesome tour!

    Derek B,

    Sep 15, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    This was a wonderful experience. Our guide was extremely informative and pleasant to deal with. Highly recommended!

  • Great Views!

    William R,

    Sep 14, 2025

    - Viator

    4.00

    This is a great trip if you like trains and want to see a lot of the alps without having to do strenuous hikes. We did get to see alpine parrots, and crown hill was worth the while trip for me! Where this trip really stood out to me is our driver. He was incredibly kind and made sure every person had a good time. My only wish is that we had more time at crown hill.

  • Great birthday 🎁 💝

    KamMee C,

    Sep 11, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    The tour guide was very professional, helpful, speak clearly & run the tour in a perfect way from beginning to the end. We were very lucky with the weather & they were still heaps of snows. The walk up to the waterfall in Arthur’s Pass was a good experience & makes me happy to test my fitness😀 The Castle Hill walk going around the huge rocks was great & it’s not slippery with less steps. I fully enjoyed this tour & the mountains is so picturesque. I am glad I have returned to New Zealand & will definitely be back to do other tours.

  • Train/bus combo

    KATE R,

    Aug 27, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Well organised tour of combined train out to Arthur'sPass then bus return. App via KiwiRail/Viator extremely informative about each place train passed through. Fantastic guide AJ who gave clear instructions, knowledgable commentary and provided lots of snacks, water and caring concern for patrons of mixed ability and nationality.

From NZ$410.00

4.83
362 reviews
Check availability

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