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Offered languages
- English
Home of the world’s only truly alpine parrot, the Kea, Arthur's Pass boasts dramatic terrain, powerful waterfalls, unique fauna, native Beech forest, and engineering feats.
Join us as we travel from Christchurch to the wild West Coast. Your morning to midday will be spent travelling via the Great Alpine Highway, stopping to explore the jaw dropping geology and geography of Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass. Once arriving on the West Coast, you will return aboard the world famous TranzAlpine, travelling through the 8km long Otira tunnel, past Lake Brunner and majestic mountains, and across braided rivers before arriving in Ōtautahi. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!
As this tour operates in an alpine region, the weather can be unpredictable so please prepare for all conditions.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Please ensure that you are ready at least five to ten minutes before your scheduled pick up time. We do not wait for late guests. Lateness/no show is non-refundable.
Itinerary
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Christchurch (Pass by)
We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head inland, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights.
Admission ticket free -
1Castle Hill
Castle Hill, or Kura Tāwhiti, is perhaps one of Canterbury’s most distinguishable settings. Famous for its scenery that would later inspire Middle Earth™, nearby Flock Hill, who Castle Hill shares its geology with, went on to become one of the filming locations used for The Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. The weathered limestone rocks sit proudly abreast the tussocky hills that were once in the ocean. Over time they have eroded away, forming the amazing unique shapes you see today. While you walk amongst the rocks, you might catch a glimpse of climbers and boulderers who frequent the area. Please note that this is not a guided walk, so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
2Lake Lyndon
Next up we stop at Lake Lyndon. Nestled at the base of Porters Pass, Lyndon, or Te Hāpua Waikawa, is popular amongst jetboaters, bird watchers, and brave swimmers. It is known as one of this area's colder lakes.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Arthur's Pass National Park
After a short drive we land in Arthur’s Pass Village. Located 740 metres above sea level, you will be able to experience the majestic Southern Alps up close. Once we arrive, you can choose to either walk to Devils Punch Bowl, or grab a coffee and spend some time exploring the local shops. Devils Punch Bowl - This walking track is approximately 1 hour long, with a gradual incline (including steps) towards a ferocious 131 metre tall waterfall. Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and native beech forest. Please note that depending on time, your guide will let you know how long you have and will assist you on the day in regard to the best activity for the weather and time allocated.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
4Otira Viaduct Lookout
Also known as Death's Corner, the Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the National Park in all its glory. This bridge is the only reason that driving through Arthur’s Pass is possible today. At 440 metres long, it is a true feat of engineering. The lookout is a great spot for a photo framing viaduct and the surrounding landscape. Keep your eyes peeled at this stop! With a bit of luck, you might even see a wee Cheeky Kea - New Zealand’s sneaky alpine parrot!
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
GREYMOUTH - CHRISTCHURCH: Upon arrival in Greymouth, our guide will drop you off at the Greymouth Train Station. It is here that you will catch the TranzAlpine and return to Christchurch. IMPORTANT: Please note that TranzAlpine bookings are managed by Great Journeys New Zealand, who cannot be held responsible for any missed onward connections due to delayed train arrivals. The TranzAlpine’s departure from Greymouth is 2:15pm and arrival into Christchurch is 7pm. However, the service can experience delays of 30 minutes or more so please bear this in when booking this product. This may mean that you might not be able to have time for the views in Cobden. Please be aware and patient if this occurs. As Great Journeys is a third party supplier, we are not responsible for any delays or issues that may occur while aboard the TranzAlpine. For concerns or questions, please contact the operator directly.
5 hours • Admission ticket included -
Christchurch (Pass by)
Upon arrival in Christchurch, our guide will pick you up from the train station before dropping you off at your pick up point. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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