A ride on the “
TranzAlpine” is a train trip of a lifetime; it leads from
Christchurch on the mid-East coast to Greymouth on the wild
West Coast of the South Island. Amongst train lovers and experts, it is considered as one of the world’s greatest and most scenic railway journeys. The trip first leads through the beautiful and wide Canterbury Plains to the west of
Christchurch, spectacular gorges and amazing river valleys [Waimakariri River] along the way. The train then consequently starts climbing and works its way through the Southern Alps before descending through thick beech rainforest and to the
West Coast town of
Greymouth. The journey is 224 km long, it takes about four and a half hours and runs once every day. Guests travel in comfortable carriages and there is even an open-air carriage allowing travelers to take amazing pictures from the moving train. On its way the train travels through 16 tunnels and over
five spectacular viaducts, the highest of which is “Staircase”, standing tall at 73 m. One can travel onwards from Greymouth or alternatively, take the train back to Christchurch. When visiting the South Island this train journey is a relaxing way to experience coastal regions on both sides of the island and take in the magical scenery at a slow and enjoyable pace.