Wild West Coast

Departing Christchurch on the world-famous TranzAlpine train, you'll enjoy Morning Teawhilst rolling through the patchwork paddocks of the Canterbury Plains. Weaving through the Torlesse mountains, clinging to cliffs, ducking into tunnels, soaring across viaducts; the TranzAlpine's ascent into the Southern Alps is a sensational mix of natural and engineering marvels. Upon entering the high plains of Cragieburn, surrounded by magnificent peaks and glistening mountain lakes, stroll to the TranzAlpine Open-air Viewing carriage to breathe in the fresh mountain atmosphere. 

Easing away from Arthur's Pass, you'll descend into the 8.5km Otira Tunnel. Emerging from the darkness on the far side of the Main Divide, you'll witness firsthand the astonishing effect of the damper West Coast climate. Winding through lush river valleys lined with soaring hills, past peaceful Lake Poerua and immaculate Lake Brunner, you can settle back with your TranzAlpine Lunch and feast upon wondrous West Coast scenery on your journey to Greymouth.

Your West Coast exploration begins with a guided tour of the rugged Tasman coastline. Travelling along the famous Coast Road, through a wild, untamed world, where mountains meet the sea, you'll soon understand why this is considered one of the world's best coastal drives.

Your ultimate destination is the enigmatic Pancake Rocks where the Punakaiki Blow Holes billow water high into the air. One of the wonders of the world, this geological marvel was forged by raging seas, violent winds, and tectonic upheaval over millions of years. 

Beautiful Hokitika is your destination on day two, beginning with a visit to the pristine blue waters of Hokitika Gorge. Here, you will wander among native rimu and podocarp trees on a short walk through ancient forest and cross the Hokitika River on an idyllic suspension bridge. Gaze upon the astonishingly vibrant waters either from the bridge or the viewing point, both views are hypnotically beautiful.

Your tour will then continue to the Tree Top Walkway for a sensational canopy tour. Situated alongside Lake Mahinapua, this accessible walkway takes you through native rimu and miro trees that tower up to 35 metres. Bellbirds, tui, grey warbler, fantail, and kereru play amongst these giants, whistling their beautiful songs while you stroll around these atmospheric walkways. If you are feeling bold, you can also climb the 40-metre high Tower to get a stunning birdseye view of the park and the majestic Lake Mahinapua.

Relax with Afternoon Tea aboard the TranzAlpine train as you return to Christchurch. Rolling through endless scenic landscapes, you will have plenty to talk about and contemplate. And as you ascend back into the Southern Alps, why not unwind and raise a glass to a couple of dramatic days on the enigmatic West Coast.