Tranz Alpine Train Tour

The TranzAlpine Train Tour is a captivating adventure through New Zealand’s stunning South Island. Travelers embark on a scenic train journey, taking in panoramic vistas of the majestic Southern Alps. The tour also includes a guided hike through the breathtaking Arthurs Pass National Park, where visitors can marvel at the park’s impressive peaks and diverse native wildlife. With a delightful homemade picnic lunch to savor, this immersive experience offers an unforgettable glimpse into the natural wonders that make New Zealand’s South Island truly remarkable. As for what else this tour has in store, the anticipation only builds.

Key Points

• A popular day tour in New Zealand’s South Island that features a scenic ride on the TranzAlpine train through the Southern Alps.
• Includes a stop at Arthurs Pass National Park for hiking opportunities and a homemade picnic lunch.
• Offers an unforgettable experience with stunning views of majestic mountains, winding rivers, and dramatic rocky formations.
• Features a convenient pickup service from central Christchurch accommodations and a return journey by car.
• Provides a seamless and hassle-free tour experience with a non-refundable cancellation policy.

Tour Overview

The Tranz Alpine Train Tour is a popular day tour that allows visitors to experience the stunning scenery of New Zealand’s South Island.

Located in Christchurch, this small-group tour (maximum 7 travelers) offers a scenic ride on the TranzAlpine train through the Southern Alps.

Along the way, travelers will have the opportunity to stop at Arthurs Pass National Park for a short hike and enjoy views of the mountains, rivers, and rocky formations.

The tour includes a homemade picnic lunch and transportation back to Christchurch by car.

With a 5.0 rating from 84 reviews, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the natural beauty of New Zealand.

Itinerary Highlights

Typically, the Tranz Alpine Train Tour features a scenic ride on the TranzAlpine train through the breathtaking Southern Alps of New Zealand.

During the journey, the tour makes a stop at Arthurs Pass National Park, where travelers can embark on a short hike to take in the stunning views.

Along the way, passengers will be treated to awe-inspiring sights, including:

• Majestic mountains

• Winding rivers

• Dramatic rocky formations

The return to Christchurch is done by car, ensuring a comfortable and convenient end to the day’s adventures.

With a focus on immersing travelers in the natural beauty of the region, the Tranz Alpine Train Tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Inclusions

Included in the Tranz Alpine Train Tour is a homemade picnic lunch, featuring seasonal items such as wholemeal walnut bread, an assortment of meats and cheeses, fresh salad, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocados, flavorful dressings and chutneys, hearty soup, or a delectable dessert.

The tour also includes pickup from your central Christchurch accommodation, within 4 avenues of the city center. There’s an option for further pickups, but an additional fee may apply.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation, and infant seats are available.

The cancellation policy is non-refundable, and the tour is operated by Craig Rome.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The Tranz Alpine Train Tour starts with a 7:45 am meeting at the Christchurch Central City, and participants return to the same location at the end of the day.

The tour includes:

• Pickup from central Christchurch accommodations within 4 avenues, with an additional fee for further pickups.

• An option for pickups, making it convenient for travelers to join the tour.

• A return to the starting point at the end of the day, ensuring a seamless experience.

The meeting point and pickup arrangements are designed to provide a hassle-free start and end to the tour, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the scenic Tranz Alpine train journey and the natural wonders of the South Island.

Additional Information

Confirming a booking for the Tranz Alpine Train Tour happens within 48 hours, subject to availability. The cancellation policy is non-refundable.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation. Infant seats are available for families with young children. While the meeting point is in Christchurch’s central city, the tour operator may offer additional pickups for an extra fee.

Operated by Craig Rome, the Tranz Alpine Train Tour costs from €350.63 per person, with the final price varying based on the group size.

Travellers can expect a memorable day of scenic train travel through the Southern Alps and a guided hike in Arthurs Pass National Park.

Scenic Train Ride

Traversing the rugged Southern Alps, the TranzAlpine train takes travelers on a breathtaking journey through New Zealand’s awe-inspiring alpine landscapes. Gliding along the tracks, passengers are treated to sweeping views of towering peaks, pristine rivers, and lush, ancient forests. The train’s panoramic windows offer a front-row seat to this natural wonder:

• Witness the dramatic transition from the east coast plains to the mountainous spine of the South Island.

• Marvel at the engineering feat of the Staircase Viaduct, a stunning curved bridge spanning a deep gorge.

• Spot native wildlife like the kea, a curious mountain parrot, amidst the stunning alpine scenery.

This scenic rail experience is a truly unforgettable highlight of any visit to New Zealand.

Hiking in Arthurs Pass

After traversing the TranzAlpine train through the Southern Alps, the tour makes a stop at Arthurs Pass National Park, where participants can embark on a short, but rewarding hike through the pristine alpine environment.

The hike offers stunning vistas of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and lush, native vegetation. Along the way, the guide provides insights into the region’s unique ecology and the importance of conservation efforts in the area.

Hikers will have the chance to spot native birds, such as the cheeky kea, as they make their way through the rugged, yet beautiful landscape.

The hike is a perfect complement to the train journey, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural splendor of New Zealand’s South Island.

Homemade Picnic Lunch

The Tranz Alpine Train Tour offers a delightful homemade picnic lunch, which features a seasonal selection of wholesome ingredients.

Prepared by the tour provider, the meal typically includes items such as wholemeal walnut bread, a variety of meats and cheeses, fresh salad, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocados, flavorful dressings, savory chutneys, comforting soup, and even a tempting dessert.

The picnic spread is designed to satisfy and delight, catering to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. Guests can look forward to savoring the flavors of locally-sourced, high-quality produce while taking in the stunning scenery of the Southern Alps.

The picnic lunch is a highlight of the Tranz Alpine Train Tour, adding to the overall immersive and memorable experience.

• Seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients

• Variety of sweet and savory items

• Designed for diverse dietary needs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Additional Food or Drinks on the Train?

Yes, passengers can purchase additional food and drinks on the train. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase throughout the journey, providing passengers with the opportunity to enjoy extra refreshments during the scenic train ride.

Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage Size or Weight?

There are no specific restrictions on luggage size or weight for this tour. However, participants are advised to pack light and only bring what they can comfortably carry, as the tour involves some walking and hiking.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator does not offer an option to extend the tour duration. The tour has a fixed itinerary and set duration of a day tour. Extending the tour is not available for this particular Tranz Alpine Train Tour.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meal?

Yes, travellers can request vegetarian or special dietary meals. The tour operator is happy to accommodate any dietary requirements with the homemade picnic lunch provided on the tour. Advanced notice is recommended to ensure the appropriate meal.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for children and seniors. Children under 12 receive a 50% discount, while seniors aged 65 and above get a 10% discount. These discounts are applied to the base tour price.

Recap

The TranzAlpine Train Tour is a must-do experience for anyone seeking to enjoy New Zealand’s breathtaking natural beauty.

From the scenic train ride showcasing the Southern Alps’ grandeur to the guided hike in Arthurs Pass National Park, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure that will leave travelers with lasting memories of the country’s stunning landscapes and rich wildlife.