• Waimakariri River - As the journey progresses through the Selwyn District, Springfield welcomes visitors before turning towards the team at Alpine Jet Thrills. Here, enjoy walks, views of the Waimakariri River, and the delightful experience of sheep cuddles. Seeking more excitement? Opt for a 30-minute exhilarating jet boat ride on one of the region’s renowned rivers (additional booking required).
• Lake Lyndon - Make a quick stop for photos at Lake Lyndon (Te Hāpua Waikawa), situated at the base of Porters Pass. Known for its chilly alpine waters, it offers stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks.
• Castle Hill - Discover Castle Hill (Kura Tāwhiti), a quintessential Canterbury landmark. These ancient limestone formations inspired Middle Earth™ and nearby Flock Hill served as a filming site for The Chronicles of Narnia. Explore the magnificent boulders at your leisure—this is a self-guided adventure.
• Lake Pearson - Visit Ōpōrea (Lake Pearson), the largest of three mountain lakes on the pass. This scenic glacial lake provides breathtaking mirror reflections and holds historical significance as a mahinga kai site for the Ngāi Tahu iwi.
• Otira Viaduct Lookout - Marvel at the 440-meter Otira Viaduct spanning the Otira Gorge—a remarkable engineering achievement. Look out for the playful Keas, New Zealand’s only alpine parrot and one of the world’s most intelligent birds.
• Arthur’s Pass National Park - Experience the grandeur of the Southern Alps at an elevation of 740 meters.
  Choose your adventure:
• Devils Punchbowl Walking Track: A 1-hour return walk through native beech forest leading to a 131-meter waterfall
• Village Exploration: Enjoy coffee, shops, and the DOC visitor center
  Your guide will recommend the best activity based on weather and timing.
• Devils Punchbowl Walking Track - This walking track takes approximately 1 hour, with a gentle incline (including steps) leading to a spectacular 131-meter waterfall. The fitness level required is low to moderate as you traverse through the bush and native beech forest.

Please note that your guide will inform you of the available time and assist in selecting the best activity based on weather and time constraints.

• TranzAlpine: Scenic Train Christchurch - Greymouth - The highlight of the tour! Board the renowned TranzAlpine for the return journey. Visit the open-air viewing carriage for breathtaking views of braided rivers, high-country sheep stations, and dramatic horseshoe bends. Observe the landscape transition from rugged alpine terrain through beech forests to the Canterbury Plains. Relax and reflect on an extraordinary day.

Note: The train is scheduled to arrive in Christchurch at 7:00 PM, but delays may occur. If you have onward travel plans, it is advisable to allow extra time to ensure ample time for any connections. TranzAlpine bookings are managed by Great Journeys New Zealand, who cannot be held responsible for missed connections due to train delays.

• Christchurch - Your guide will be waiting at Christchurch Railway Station to transfer you back to your original pickup location in our Mercedes Sprinter.

• Expert Kiwi guide with live commentary (English)
• Free WiFi, USB charging and bottled water ports onboard
• TranzAlpine train ticket (Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch)
• Lunch and kiwi snacks
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from 16 central Christchurch locations
• Premium Mercedes Sprinter transport with air conditioning
• Small-group tour for personalized attention
• 100% carbon-neutral tour—all emissions offset

• Jet boat experience at Alpine Jet Thrills (optional on the day)

Experience the stunning beauty of the Southern Alps on an Arthur’s Pass day tour departing from Christchurch. Enjoy a luxurious journey through Canterbury’s alpine region, followed by a return trip on the renowned TranzAlpine train—celebrated as one of the most magnificent rail experiences globally.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable Kiwi guide, delve into Māori history and stories as you traverse Canterbury’s braided rivers. Pause at Waimakariri Gorge for scenic riverside walks and an optional thrilling jet boat ride.

Discover the enchanting limestone formations of Castle Hill, which inspired Middle Earth, and visit picturesque alpine lakes such as Lake Pearson and Lake Lyndon. Don’t miss the Otira Viaduct Lookout and keep an eye out for the Kea, New Zealand’s unique alpine parrot.

In Arthur’s Pass Village, choose to hike the Devils Punchbowl Track to a breathtaking 154-meter waterfall or explore the charming village shops. The highlight of your adventure is the return journey on the TranzAlpine train, featuring open-air viewing carriages.

Travel in a carbon-neutral, premium Mercedes Sprinter, and enjoy a delicious included lunch and expert guidance with your small group. Proudly 100% Kiwi-owned.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.