Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and including a thrilling 30 minute jet boat experience and return to Christchurch aboard the world famous TranzAlpine, this journey is one you will never forget!

The weather can be unpredictable so please prepare for all conditions. Please note that this tour is not suitable as a shore excursion, and runs in reverse over winter.

Christchurch – We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City.

Springfield/Alpine Jet Thrills (45 minutes) - Continuing further, you will be greeted by Springfield, where we will then make our turn off towards the team at Alpine Jet Thrills. It is here that you will embark on your thrilling 30 minute jet boat ride across the braided shallows of the Waimakariri river!

Castle Hill (1 hour) - Castle Hill, or Kura Tāwhiti, is perhaps one of Canterbury’s most distinguishable settings. Weathered limestone rocks sit proudly abreast the tussocky hills that were once in the ocean. Over time they have eroded away, forming the amazing unique shapes you see today. Please note that this is not a guided walk, so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own.

Otira Gorge Lookout (15 minutes) - Also known as Death's Corner, the Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the National Park in all its glory.

Arthur’s Pass Village (1 hour) - We depart the lookout and head towards Arthur’s Pass Village. Once we arrive, you can choose to either walk to Devils Punch Bowl, or grab a coffee and spend some time exploring the local shops.

Devils Punch Bowl - This walking track is approximately 1 hour long, with a gradual incline (including steps) towards a ferocious 131 metre tall waterfall.

Please note that depending on time, your guide will let you know how long you have and will assist you on the day in regard to the best activity for the weather and time allocated.

TranzAlpine (AHP - CHCH) - A popular highlight of this tour is the return trip to Christchurch aboard the TranzAlpine.

Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.

IMPORTANT: Please note that TranzAlpine bookings are managed by Great Journeys New Zealand, who cannot be held responsible for any missed connections due to delayed train arrivals. If you have onward travel plans (such as flights), please be aware that the service may experience delays of 30 minutes or more beyond the scheduled arrival into Christchurch at 7pm. As such, we recommend allowing extra time to ensure you have ample time for any connections. Please also note that due to changes to daylight saving, the length of daylight is shortened meaning that some of the journey may take place in the dark due to earlier sun setting. As Great Journeys is a third party supplier, we are not responsible for any delays or issues that may occur while aboard the TranzAlpine. For concerns or questions, please contact the operator directly.