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A train traveling through a mountainous landscape with a river and sparse vegetation. 1
A bird of prey in flight over a mountainous landscape. 2
A train on tracks through a snowy mountainous landscape with a lake and distant mountains. 3
A train with 'KiwiRail' branding on a track, reflecting in a puddle, with snow-capped mountains in the background. 4
A waterfall cascading into a clear blue pool surrounded by lush greenery. 5

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

By NZSI Tours & Travel
9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$322 per adult
See tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 10h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Selective hotel pickup

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.

Activity location

  • Flock Hill Station
    • 73 Craigieburn Valley
    • 7580, Lake Pearson, Canterbury Region, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Christchurch Bus Interchange
    • Colombo Street
    • 8011, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand

Check availability

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

  • Activity duration is 10 hours10h
    10h
  • English

Pickup included

Language options: English
Starting time: 7:00 AM
Price details
AU$322.23 x 1 AdultAU$322.23
Total
Price is AU$322.23
Until Fri, 18 Sept

Activity itinerary

TranzAlpine Train (Pass by)

Once we’ve collected you from your chosen location around 7:00 am, we transfer you to the TranzAlpine for one of the world's most scenic rail journeys. Enjoy breathtaking alpine vistas from panoramic windows or the open-air carriage. Your guide will meet you at Arthur's Pass Station to begin your mountain tour.

Arthur's Pass National Park

  • 45m
While you enjoy the rail journey, your guide travels ahead to meet you right on the platform at Arthur’s Pass Station. From there, we’ll drive to the Otira Viaduct lookout for spectacular views—including the vibrant red Rata flowers during summer. Keep an eye out for the cheeky Kea, New Zealand’s inquisitive alpine parrot! Our mountain exploration continues with a visit to the stunning Avalanche Creek Waterfall and several other scenic highlights within the National Park.

Devils Punchbowl Walking Track

  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
For the highlight of your afternoon, we highly recommend the Devils Punchbowl walking track. A leisurely 1-hour return walk leads you through lush beech forest to the base of a thundering 131-metre waterfall. The sheer power of the water and the mist on your face make this an unforgettable alpine experience

Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre

  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
After your walk, enjoy some well-earned downtime in the charming Arthur’s Pass village. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy lunch at a local cafe, browse the historic visitor centre, or simply soak up the peaceful mountain atmosphere before we continue our journey

Lake Pearson

  • 5m
  • Admission ticket included
Our return journey to Christchurch takes a different route by road, offering scenery that the train tracks don't reach. Our first stop is the serene Lake Pearson. This high-country lake is famous for its glassy, mirror-like reflections of the surrounding mountains—a photographer’s dream and a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon break.

Flock Hill Station

  • 10m
  • Admission ticket included
Stop at Flock Hill: Discover the stunning 'Narnia' filming location. This site was featured in Disney's The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe as the primary battlefield—a spectacular setting surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Craigieburn Valley.

Castle Hill / Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area

  • 45m
  • Admission ticket included
Our final highlight: Experience the 'Treasure from Afar' at Kura Tāwhiti. To the Ngāi Tahu iwi, this area holds Tōpuni status—a symbolic cloak of protection over its sacred values. As you walk the easy access track, look for traces of 500-year-old charcoal drawings and learn how these rocks were formed 30 million years ago when New Zealand was still under a shallow inland sea.

Christchurch

  • 1h 15m
Leaving the mountains behind, we travel across the vast Canterbury Plains. We make one final, delicious stop in the rural town of Springfield to see the famous giant doughnut—a must-photo landmark! From there, it’s a relaxing final leg back to the city, where we say our goodbyes and drop you off at your chosen location.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Flock Hill Station
    • 73 Craigieburn Valley
    • 7580, Lake Pearson, Canterbury Region, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Christchurch Bus Interchange
    • Colombo Street
    • 8011, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand

Best Deals on Things to Do

Experience the wonders of the world up close with great deals on things to do near and far. We offer one-of-a-kind activities that allow you to explore Lake Pearson your way. Whether you love nature, culture, food or a bit of adventure, we have the perfect activity for you.