It’s possible to complete the entire route from Christchurch to Greymouth on a full-day tour, while adventurous travelers can travel by train to Arthur's Pass National Park and then explore off-road on a 4WD safari or take a jet boat cruise along the Waimakariri River. For the best value, opt for a multi-day tour from Christchurch or Queenstown. This lets you combine a ride on the TranzAlpine with top New Zealand attractions such as Mount Cook, Milford Sound, the Fox Glacier, or the Franz Josef Glacier.
Large bags and suitcases must be checked into the baggage carriage, so pack a small day bag to take on board with you.
Onboard facilities include restrooms, a café carriage, and an open-air viewing deck, as well as charging stations for laptops and phones.
There’s time to get off and take in the views at some stations, so dress accordingly and bring warm clothing as it can get chilly in the mountains.
Wheelchair access is available at all stations.
You can ride the TranzAlpine Train in either direction, starting your journey at Christchurch or at Greymouth. Christchurch Railway Station is located in Addington, just west of downtown Christchurch or about 6 miles (9 kilometers) southeast of Christchurch Airport.
The TranzAlpine runs daily with morning departures from Christchurch and afternoon departures from Greymouth. Trains run year-round, but it’s best to book ahead for the summer season as tickets can sell out.
Setting out from Christchurch, the TranzAlpine Train rolls through the Canterbury Plains and crosses the Waimakariri River Gorge toward Rolleston. After climbing into the Southern Alps, the railway crosses the famous “Staircase” viaduct, soars over Arthur’s Pass, and traverses the 5.3-mile (8.6-kilometer) Otira Tunnel. Finally, it chugs along the shores of Lake Brunner and through Moana to the final station in Greymouth.