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TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

333 Reviews 4.86 out of 5 stars Based on 333 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 99% of reviewers | Christchurch, New Zealand

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10 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation

Overview

Experience the South Island's remarkable natural landscapes by taking a journey on the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass, which is considered one of the world's greatest train journeys for the scenery through which it passes. Enjoy breathtaking views of Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps, ice-fed Waimakariri River, lush beech forests and stunning landscapes. Explore walking tracks in Arthur's Pass National Park with spectacular mountain views & pristine waterfalls. Capture mirror images at Lake Pearson & wander through the majestic limestone boulders at Castle Hill. A perfect day trip for nature lovers, hikers & adventure seekers.

What's Included

  • Bottled water
  • National Park fees
  • Transport by air-conditioned late model Minibus.
  • Lunch
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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

Pickup timing will be confirmed a day prior to travel date. Pickup/ drop-off is offered from selected Central Christchurch Hotels listed below:1. Christchurch Bus Interchange 2. Heritage/ Distinction/ Novotel Central Christchurch/Hotel 115/Quest Cathedral Junction 3. Crowne Plaza 4. The Mayfair, 155 Victoria Street 5. Chateau on the Park

OR
Meeting point

Corner of Lichfield St and
Colombo Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

What To Expect

Christchurch Cathedral (Pass By)

After pick-up from your hotel at 7.30am, your guide will drop you to the train station in Christchurch for one of the greatest train journey's in the world. Travel on the TranzAlpine train & admire the stunning scenery through panoramic windows & open air viewing decks. Disembark the train at Arthur's Pass National Park where you will meet your guide again.
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Otira Viaduct Lookout

Then drive down to Otira Viaduct which provide impressive views of red flowering rata in summer months & grab the opportunity to spot the inquisitive Kea (alpine parrot) well known for its cheeky nature.
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30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Devils Punchbowl Walking Track

Your guide will then recommend you some popular walks in the National Park with incredible views.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre

After your walk enjoy 1 hours free time for lunch at a local cafe & explore the village of Arthur's Pass.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area

On your return journey, travel by road in a luxurious minivan with a few scenic stops on the way. Take a coffee break & capture stunning mirror images at Lake Person. Then wander through majestic presence of limestone rock formations at Castle Hill Conservation Area. Stretch your legs one last time at Lake Lyndon that regularly freezes in winter months. Return back & drop-off to your location in Christchurch.
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45 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
  • Fully guided tour except the walks in the National Park & Castle Hill.
  • Bring your phone, USB charger & headphones to enjoy the audio commentary on the TranzAlpine Train.

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the TranzAlpine Train, Arthur’s Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZST).This tour 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. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-71335P30

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.86
333 reviews

Average 4.86 out of 5 stars based on 333 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
292
4 stars
37
3 stars
3
2 stars
1
1 star
0

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What's Included

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Bottled water
  • National Park fees
  • Transport by air-conditioned late model Minibus.
  • TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass.
  • Small group
  • Pickup and drop-off from selected Central Christchurch Hotels.
  • Fully guided tour except the walks.
  • Lunch

Additional Info

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • A small amount of walking is involved.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
  • Fully guided tour except the walks in the National Park & Castle Hill.
  • Bring your phone, USB charger & headphones to enjoy the audio commentary on the TranzAlpine Train.
  • Tour may operate in reverse order; where train will be booked from Arthur's Pass to Christchurch, if morning tickets are sold out.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 21 travelers

Report Product Issue

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Free Cancellation

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZST).
  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This tour 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.

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American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

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