TranzAlpine Train Journey from Greymouth to Christchurch
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Experience the South Island’s striking natural landscape by taking a train one way between Greymouth and Christchurch. 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
Wheelchair accessible
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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 greatest train journeys, travelling coast to coast through forests and farmland and through the spectacular Southern Alps. The TranzAlpine operates a daily service between Christchurch and Greymouth. From the comfort of world class carriages travel from the West Coast town of Greymouth through lush beech rainforest before arriving at Arthur's Pass National Park. Then travels through the majestic Southern Alps, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. You will then see the fields of the Canterbury Plains before arriving at the final destination of Christchurch. 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
GPS-triggered audio commentary
One Way Rail Journey
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Guide
Excess luggage charges (where applicable)
Options
Scenic
Greymouth to Christchurch: 4.5 hour train journey from Greymouth to Christchurch
Scenic Plus
Scenic Plus
Includes Food and Beverage
Reviews
182 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Cancelled journey
Tricia B,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00Unfortunately our train didn’t run this week due to an incident on the line in early hours. We therefore were offered either full refund or 80% refund and an alternative coach trip to Picton which we took. Got to see much of the tour as roads and train follow the same route.
A journey to remember
Geraint M,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Remember to connect to the WiFi to enjoy a commentary on the places along your route. Some great photo opportunities lovely views of the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass. Comfortable seating with plenty of opportunity to purchase drinks and snacks from buffet car. Easy check in and boarding at Greymouth and easy check out at Christchurch.
Relaxed
Naga B,,Jan 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Relaxed and very scenic. Hassle free and especially with the family it’s enjoyable. Staff were very friendly and cooperative.
Staff were friendly
Glenda S,,Jan 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00I had high expectations as it was claimed to be one of the best in the world. Maybe we just did it at the wrong time of the year
Scenic train ride... worth it
sriniv890,,Jan 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Awesome train ride from Greymouth to Christchurch; great views of the mountains, rivers, hills and valleys. Best part of the trip was 2 hours before Christchurch. The food car service was decent, staff was constantly moving through the cabins to clean up. You have to check in wheeled bags, but the pickup was pretty efficient at Christchurch.
Amazing experience, great views
sharn K,,Jan 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Easy to find the place, smooth check in. Was a wonderful experience, we enjoyed great views while sitting back and relaxing. Staff on board were very friendly and helpful. Will definitely recommend it to friends and family
Transalpine train ride
Kerstin K,,Jan 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great train ride with spectacular views. The fare is high, but worth it. Very nice travel experience
Expensive train journey, doesn't live up to expectations
Kiwionclogs,,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00I expected more as it is advertised as one of the Great Journeys. There are certainly some spectacular views, but a lot of the time you are looking at paddocks and embankments. Also, if the trip from Chch to Greymouth was especially busy, the restaurant will be more or less sold out. For some reason they do not stock up in Greymouth. So make sure you've had lunch before boarding and take some snacks with you. The train itself is very comfortable with good seats and high windows to take in the views. There are also carriages where you can stand outside and take photos, if they're not too crowded. All in all I found it too expensive for what you get.
Fantastic journey
Bill J,,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The scenery from the train is excellent and made easy to see and photograph. We would recommend this trip as a part of every visit to the South Island of New Zealand
Simply Fantastic Journey!!
Escape55064338911,,Dec 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely Fantastic experience, with breathtaking views & excellent service onboard staff especially Matt who went above & beyond!! All the train staff were very friendly, helpful & always with a Big 😃
From NZ$243.75
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Related Experiences
Operated by Great Journeys New Zealand