TranzAlpine Train & Small Group Tour to Arthurs Pass with Lunch
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 with pickup from select hotels, before arriving 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
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
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 Pickup included
Reviews
14 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Strongly recommended!!!
annabelx2026,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a great experience overall, I would strongly recommend it to anyone who loves walks, hiking and amazing views!
wonderful trip
Y8974PJ,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was a wonderful trip. The tour guide is very patient and helpful. The scenery here in New Zealand is absolutely stunning. I really enjoyed this pleasant journey.
Amazing trip
O5565JSjanetl,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was an amazing and memorable trip, and my family and I had a truly wonderful time. Thank you so much.
非常好的一个旅行
雪霞窦,May 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing trip in New Zealand! Great views and pleasant journey. The guide took good care of all tourists and arranged everything perfectly. Really enjoyed every moment here, worth booking
Amazing Arthur’s Pass and train Experience with Cheeky Kiwi
Gloriahao,May 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I recently took a friend from overseas on the TranzAlpine Train & Small-Group Coach Tour to Arthur’s Pass with Cheeky Kiwi, and we both absolutely enjoyed it! The scenery was stunning, and the whole experience was very well organised. Our guide, Paul, was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the trip even more enjoyable with his interesting commentary and warm personality. The small-group format was perfect, the lunch was great. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting Christchurch or wanting to explore the South Island. Thank you, Cheeky Kiwi for such a memorable day!
Do not let Arthur's Pass pass
MichaelH15139,May 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Incredible scenery, well operated journey and incredibly friendly staff. What more could you ask for?! A stunning day in a beautiful part of the world.
Stunning Scenery. Amazing experience.
shannonw326,May 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Scenery was breathtaking. But what made the trip was our Cheeky Kiwi guide. We learnt so much about New Zealand, Māori culture and local flora and fauna. Also met some cool interesting people on our tour. Well done Cheeky Kiwi. Thoroughly recommend.
Must do tour!
harrietl43,May 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Such a cool, different and very unique way to see the area. Would absolutely recommend!
Go Cheeky Kiwi!
davelT5953ZQ,May 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Cheeky kiwi are amazing. Best way to see NZ! The vans a super comfortable, and the guide was awesome.
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😀
-20% off
From NZ$359.20Was NZ$449.00
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Operated by Cheeky Kiwi Travel