TranzAlpine Train Journey: Christchurch to Greymouth
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Experience the South Island’s striking natural landscape by taking a train one way between Christchurch and Greymouth. Along this journey you’ll see epic vistas, travel the edges of the ice-fed Waimakariri River, traverse the Southern Alps, and see miles of native beech forest.
Additional Info
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if travelling with a wheelchair
Please arrive at least 20 minutes prior to scheduled departure and check in at the station to receive your boarding pass
This train passes through the Southern Alps, please dress for the alpine conditions
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
What To Expect
One of the world’s great train journeys, traveling coast to coast through forests and farmland and through the spectacular Southern Alps. The TranzAlpine operates a daily return service between Christchurch and Greymouth. From the comfort of world-class carriages, you will see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. The train then climbs into the majestic Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass National Park, before descending through lush beech rain forest to the West Coast town of Greymouth, a great base for visits to Punakaiki and the always-popular glaciers. While on board enjoy the journey in award-winning world-class carriages with specially designed seats. Awaken your senses in the open air viewing decks or sit back and enjoy the GPS triggered audio commentary available through headphones at every seat. All trains have a licensed café carriage providing snacks and light meals.
What‘s Included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
One way Rail Journey
GPS-triggered audio commentary
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and drinks ( available to purchase)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Excess luggage charges (where applicable)
Options
Scenic Plus
Scenic Plus Included Food and Beverage
Scenic
Christchurch to Greymouth: 4.5 hour train journey from Christchurch to Greymouth
Reviews
344 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The trip from Arthur’s...
Robert W,May 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00The trip from Arthur’s Pass to Greymouth was cancelled. I am still waiting for a refund for half the trip.
Great train journey, well worth doing
kabouter2018,May 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent train journey. Stunning scenery all the way. Arthur's Pass stop was cute. The staff were very good. Decent cafe-restaurant car with reasonable prices. Seats are spacious and comfortable. Mobile device charging points for each seat. Book early as the train was booked to capacity. Check in larger bags. The check-in at Christchurch railway station is good. The collection point at Greymouth takes time. Be patient. The travel overview on the train itself is informative and useful. Do visit the open-air carriage (wearing a jacket). Relax and enjoy. Great little train trip, that takes half a day.
See the sights in comfort
jaypatrick2018,May 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Nice clean and comfortable carriages. The ceiling windows make for the extra views. I had a table on my seat which was a helpful touch. Commentary was optional. Cafe and food options had a good selection, and staff serving were friendly
Tranzalpine Snowy
Helen V,May 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00I have done this trip twice now. The first time was the best as there was plenty of snow on the mountains making it very picturesque and beautiful. This time around there was only a little snow and the train frequently had to stop along the track for work being undertaken so we arrived late into Greymouth from Christchurch. If you do decide to take the Tranzalphine Train make sure there is a decent amount of snow as it makes a huge difference. Staff are very pleasant and helpful.
Beautiful experience
melissar212016,May 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The train carriage have massive windows so everyone has an incredible view. There is even an outdoor carriage so you can breathe in the fresh air! A great cafe with fresh food and beverage choices that you can enjoy whilst looking at the magnificent views. There is even commentary via an app if you choose to listen. Staff were attentive and extremely professional. Absolutely a highlight of our trip.
Return trip in one day
pakabay,Apr 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We did the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth return yesterday in what was a very big but fantastic day. We chose to travel the first leg in Scenic class and returned from Greymouth to Christchurch in the upgraded Scenic Plus. Both were extremely enjoyable and whilst Scenic Plus is considerably more expensive, it is very nice indeed! Think linen tablecloths, fine glassware, nice wines and an even more comfortable dedicated railcar with its own dedicated kitchen car. The train was spotless inside & out, the staff superb and the running commentary and service notices could not have been communicated any clearer or better. Our service experienced a number of Signals issues, mostly on the way over, which delayed our arrival and subsequent departure from Greymouth, but again - fully communicated each step of the way and those needing to transfer to bus services in Greymouth were fully accommodated. We have been lucky enough to enjoy a number of significant rail journeys over the years and I’m delighted to add TranzAlpine to that list.
Very relaxing
Sharon F,Apr 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a fantastic experience. So relaxing. Train so comfortable , clean and also very quiet . Views are worth seeing. Cafe was very nice. Staff all lovely. I decided to stay in Greymouth for the night to have a look around , next time I wouldn’t bother. 1 hour would be enough time.
5 star Tranzalpine
Carly H,Apr 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Such a stunning train with near new facilities, carriages and comfort. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable and couldn't fault the experience at all
Great way to sit back and...
Janet S,Apr 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great way to sit back and enjoy the scenery without having to pay attention to the road. Recommend downloading the app to get more info about the journey.
Must do!
logan v,Apr 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Just an unbelievable ride. This is some of the most spectacular views anyone will ever see on their lives. A must do!
From NZ$243.75
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Operated by Great Journeys New Zealand