One of the world’s greatest train journeys is right on your doorstep

We all know that New Zealand is a beautiful country and most of us probably would like to spend more time exploring our own backyard.

The five hour TranzAlpine route, a Great Journey of NZ, transports you through remote Canterbury Plains, alongside the ice-fed Waimakariri River and down into vistas of Arthur’s Pass National Park. It doesn’t end there taking you through the Southern Alps and sub-tropical West Coast rainforest dotted with spectacular views of Lake Sarah and Lake Brunner.

On board

It’s easy to enjoy the views when you ride in comfort. The TranzAlpine carriages provide spacious seating with plenty of leg room, air conditioning and the option of strolling to the open-air carriages to feel the breeze on your face. Enjoy the fresh air and snap some stunning photos without windows compromising the perfect shot.

If you get peckish there are plenty of options in the on-board licensed café, ranging from tasty snacks to hearty meals. For those of us who like to learn about the history of a place, there’s an audio commentary system which shares stories and information about the area.

Off the train

Although you might be happy soaking in the magnificent views from the comfort of the carriage, if you want to extend your journey why not get off the train and explore? Our advice is to make sure that you plan any stopovers in advance as there is only one train in each direction per day.

If you enjoy nature walks, why not enjoy an overnight stopover in Arthur’s Pass? Whether you’re an intrepid adventurer up for an advanced overnight tramp, or looking for a walk as short as 15 minutes, there’s a range of different walks to stretch your legs and get amongst dense rainforest, alpine fields, and serene lakes.

Or spend a few hours (or days!) in the idyllic fishing town of Moana, perched on the edge of Lake Brunner. If you choose to end your journey in Moana rather than Greymouth, you can catch the same-day return train to Christchurch. Perhaps you could enjoy a stroll along the lakefront and find the perfect spot for a picnic lunch. If you’re staying longer and are feeling confident in your fishing ability, you could hire a boat and try to catch your lunch!

Often people disembark with a whole new appreciation of the South Island’s majestic beauty. After 223 kilometers of New Zealand’s splendour, you’ll have memories to last a lifetime. What are you waiting for? Book one of the Great Journeys of New Zealand today – you won’t regret it.

GrownUps are giving away ten return trips on the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth.  To enter, simple tell us why you’d love to do this trip.

Five lucky will get the trip of a lifetime on the 30 June and five on the 14 July.  To capture the memories GrownUps will have a videography team on the trip to ensure your trip is recorded to share the journey.

 

Competition now closed.

Terms and Conditions apply

Entrants will be responsible for their travel and accommodation to and from Christchurch.