TranzAlpine train

The TranzAlpine is one of the world's great train journeys, travelling coast-to-coast from the Canterbury Plains to the rugged West Coast. The route ascends through the foothills of the Southern Alps, passing over spectacular viaducts and through numerous tunnels. The scenery shifts from patchwork farmland to braided rivers and native beech forests.

A key feature of the journey is the open-air viewing carriage, which allows for uninterrupted photos and a more immersive experience of the alpine environment. The train includes a café carriage and features commentary that points out landmarks and historical points of interest along the way. The full journey connects Christchurch with the West Coast town of Greymouth.

Allow approximately 5 hours for the one-way journey. for TranzAlpine train, plus drive time from wherever you spend the night before. Distances in Christchurch & Canterbury look short on a map, but winding roads, roadworks and campervan speeds stretch them, so build this stop around an unhurried day rather than squeezing it between long drives. Best time to go: The scenery is striking in any season, with snow-covered peaks providing a particularly dramatic backdrop in winter. Check road conditions and seasonal ferry timetables before you lock in dates. It suits travellers who want to slow down and see Christchurch & Canterbury properly rather than tick it off. Send your plan to an Acrossnz advisor and we'll check the timing works.