The Christchurch to Arthurs Pass day excursion is a scenic rail journey on the Tranz Alpine train from Christchurch to Arthurs Pass National Park located in the through the Southern Alps.

Travelling west crossing the Canterbury Plains, the train slowly ascends through spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River towards the Southern Alps to the alpine village of Arthurs Pass - the administrative centre for the Arthurs Pass National Park.

You'll have five hours to view the displays at the National Park Visitors Centre, then go on your alpine adventure on the many forest park walks in Arthur's Pass National Park before you return to Christchurch.

The carriages on your train are centrally heated in winter and air conditioned in summer, with 'Airline' style reclining seats with head rests and 'Table' (4 people around a table) seating.

Each carriage has onboard washroom/toilet facilities, with '2 Seat-Aisle-2 Seat' seating either as reclining forward facing seats with head and foot rests or 'Table Group' (4 people around a table) seating allowing to experience the amazing views of the magnificent South Island, through panoramic side and roof windows, while enjoying the company of other passengers.

The Tranz Alpine train has a café carriage offering a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, snacks and light meals and an open viewing carriage for views of the Southern Alps and alpine rain forest landscape of the South Island's west coast.

Timing Information

Depart Christchurch Railway Station, Christchurch at 08:15 am / Arrive Arthurs Pass Railway Station, Arthurs Pass at 10:40 am
Depart Arthurs Pass Railway Station, Arthurs Pass at 04:30 pm / Arrive Christchurch Railway Station, Christchurch at 07:00 pm
Departure : Troup Drive, Christchurch
Arrival : Arthurs Pass Railway Station, Main Road