Mountaineer Train
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Port
Lyttelton (Christchurch), New Zealand
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Activity Level
Easy
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$209.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Step aboard one of the world's most scenic train journeys and experience the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's South Island on this unforgettable day tour to Arthur's Pass.
Departing from Ferrymead Heritage Park near Lyttelton, your journey begins behind a classic DA-class locomotive. The train travels west across the sweeping Canterbury Plains, climbing steadily into the dramatic landscapes of the Southern Alps. Along the way, a variety of natural wonders include golden tussock-covered high country, turquoise braided rivers, towering viaducts, deep gorges, and rugged alpine peaks.
Cross the awe-inspiring Staircase Viaduct — a remarkable feat of engineering perching 236 feet (72m) above the valley floor. Passing through the rural township of Springfield, the last settlement before the mountains, the train then follows the winding Waimakariri River with its vivid blue waters and dramatic cliffside views. At Cass, a fabulous photo opportunity awaits, with panoramic vistas of Mount Binser an d the surrounding peaks. Lake Sarah, a pristine high-country lake, sits prettily against the dramatic backdrop of Arthur's Pass National Park.
Arthur's Pass Village claims the highest railway station on the South Island at 2,400 feet above sea level. Take in the crisp alpine air here and keep watch for the native kea — a curious mountain parrot known for its adorable (yet somewhat vandal-like) behavior.
The return rail journey offers a fresh perspective of these magnificent landscapes.
Notes:
Weather and atmospheric conditions vary; no guarantee is offered with regard to visibility or views on any particular day. Bring a jacket for cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Guests must be able to climb 2-3 vertical, high, train steps, and be capable of walking a short distance, unaided. Guests may be encouraged at the halfway point of the journey to swap over to the other side of the Train. A shuttle will be used to Transfer guests to and from the Train Station.