New Zealand · TRANZALPINE & RAIL JOURNEYS
This is the shortlist to send a friend: 10 tranzalpine & rail journeys tours worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the one thing to know before you commit.
TranzAlpine train to Arthur’s Pass with easy walks, Otira Viaduct views, Castle Hill time, and hotel pickup, plus snacks and WiFi.
“Great day out. Our guide was really helpful and knowledgeable. He did a great job explaining about the train journey and Arthur's Pass national park.”
Arthur's Pass and TranzAlpine day trip from Christchurch with lunch, Kea spotting, Castle Hill limestone, and optional jet boat.
“It was a great tour. Weather was not the best but everyone dealt with it and all had a great time. Paul was very informative and kept the whole group engaged. We would definitely recommend the bus / train option to give people the chance to see so much more.”
Ride the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth for a half day of Southern Alps scenery, comfy seats, and GPS audio in a licensed cafe car.
“What an amazing experience !! Worked like clock work 😊 with easy to board, staff were great! We did the lunch and train ride and were fortunate enough to have a lovely UK couple share the table we were on. The food was fantastic!! We Read more”
Ride the TranzAlpine to Arthur’s Pass, then tour Southern Alps highlights by minivan with guided walks, tea, and lunch from Christchurch.
“Wonderful tour. The tour was outstanding, we had great tour guides for the duration and was a very enjoyable day. There was an issue with the train but the tour guides took care of everything immediately and ensured we enjoyed our tour. Beautiful country side and the scenery was amazing.”
Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass by TranzAlpine train, then alpine walks and big photo stops at Lake Pearson and Castle Hill.
“Everything was great - it was more the weather which no one can change. Anuj was amazing - thumbs up for his excellent customer service!!”
Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass by TranzAlpine train, then scenic road stops and a working sheep farm, with transfers and optional tea included.
“Fantastic day. Informative guide, Jude, and spectacular scenery. Lots of photo opportunities. Snow in late September”
A one-way TranzAlpine ride from Greymouth to Christchurch through Arthur’s Pass, with open decks, reserved seats, and GPS audio.
“DO NOT BOOK There is no coast-to-coast train. It is shutdown and they force you onto to a shuttle bus for the western half 3-5 hours late, with no notice or communication besides an email 30 minutes before the listed departure. This is a sub-standard service using bait & switch.”
From Christchurch, ride TranzAlpine to Greymouth, then tour Hokitika and Hokitika Gorge on a guided road trip to Franz Josef.
“The experience includes pick-up and the iconic scenic train ride across the famous Arthur’s Pass, followed by a guided journey along the West Coast all the way to Franz Josef. Willehm was fantastic from the very beginning of the tour until our arrival in the mountain town. All the stops along the way were beautiful and well chosen. Lunch was included, along with snacks and water — everything was perfectly organized! Highly recommended.”
Ride the TranzAlpine to Greymouth, then tour Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass with Kea spotting, lunch, and guide commentary.
“The pick up was on time and the very friendly driver ensured we had everything before getting on the train. The train journey was amazing but the driver, Grant, on the coach back had so many interesting facts and observations about the area that it certainly finished the day off. The only hiccup was the pick up at Greymouth as it was not clearly shown. It was not a major issue as we only had a ten minute wait but clearer information would be helpful. Apart from that I would highly recommend the trip.”
One-way Christchurch to Franz Josef day trip with TranzAlpine, Hokitika sights, and glacier lookout walk, plus lunch and Kiwi snacks.
“We took the TranzAlpine as part of our journey to Queenstown - breathtaking views all the way! Unfortunately, we faced a surprising 2-hour delay, which was frustrating. If time allows, consider adding Pancake Rocks near Greymouth/Hokitika to your itinerary (though it's a bit far). Still, the landscapes made it worthwhile for train lovers!”
From the fiords to the geothermal belt, sorted by what you want to do with the day.
