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The TranzAlpine Scenic Train is a popular tourist attraction for travelers visiting Christchurch, New Zealand. It offers a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty of the South Island, as it travels from Christchurch to Greymouth on the West Coast.

With breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, lakes, and forests, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train is an unforgettable journey. In this blog post, we’ll give you all the information you need to know about this iconic train ride, including its history, what to expect during the journey, and things to do in Greymouth.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Christchurch or a seasoned traveler, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train is a must-do experience.

History of the TranzAlpine Scenic Train

The TranzAlpine Scenic Train first began operating in 1987, following the closure of the Midland Line, which had been used for freight trains. The train was introduced as a way to boost tourism in the region and to provide an alternative to driving the long distance between Christchurch and Greymouth.

The train route follows the Waimakariri River and the Southern Alps, offering breathtaking views of the mountains, lakes, and forests. It passes through the towns of Arthurs Pass, Otira, and Kumara, before arriving in Greymouth.

The TranzAlpine Scenic Train has become a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, and has received numerous awards for its scenic beauty and service. It’s also a favorite among train enthusiasts and has been featured in several television shows and movies.

What to expect: The TranzAlpine Experience

The TranzAlpine Scenic Train journey takes about 5 hours and covers a distance of 223 kilometers (139 miles) between Christchurch and Greymouth. During the trip, travelers can sit back and relax as they take in the stunning views of the Southern Alps, lakes, and forests from the comfort of their seats.

The train has both standard and premier class carriages, with a range of seating options including reclining seats, tables, and booths. Premier class offers additional amenities such as larger seats, more legroom, and a complimentary refreshment service.

There are also several observation cars on the train, which offer panoramic windows and open-air viewing decks. These are the perfect spots to take photos and soak up the scenery.

Food and drink are available for purchase on the train, with a range of options including light meals, sandwiches, snacks, and beverages.

In addition to the breathtaking views, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train also offers a range of activities and entertainment for travelers. These may include informative commentary about the history and landmarks along the route, live music performances, and interactive displays.

The TranzAlpine Scenic Train offers a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty of the South Island, with its stunning views, comfortable amenities, and range of activities.

Things to Do in Greymouth

Greymouth is the largest town on the West Coast of the South Island and the terminus of the TranzAlpine Scenic Train. It’s a gateway to a range of outdoor activities and attractions, including:

• Visit the Monteith’s Brewery for a tour and tasting
• Go whitewater rafting on the Kaituna River
• Take a scenic drive along the West Coast and visit the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
• Hike or mountain bike in the Paparoa National Park
• Go surfing or fishing at one of the many beaches along the coast

In addition to outdoor activities, Greymouth also has a range of restaurants and cafes for travelers to try. Some popular options include the West Coast Food Collective, Fat Pipi Pizza, and The Tin Shed Cafe.

Greymouth is a great destination for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventure and exploring the natural beauty of the West Coast.

How to Book a Trip on the TranzAlpine Scenic Train

There are several ways to book a trip on the TranzAlpine Scenic Train:

• Online: You can book tickets directly through the TranzAlpine Scenic Train website. Simply select your travel dates and choose your preferred seating class and options. You can pay for your tickets using a credit card.
• Through a travel agent: You can also book tickets through a travel agent, either in person or online. Many travel agents offer package deals that include tickets on the TranzAlpine Scenic Train as well as accommodation and other activities.
• At the train station: Tickets can also be purchased at the Christchurch or Greymouth train stations on the day of travel, subject to availability.

It’s important to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season, as the TranzAlpine Scenic Train can sell out.

There are often promotions and discounts available for tickets on the TranzAlpine Scenic Train, so it’s worth checking the website or asking a travel agent for current offers. For example, there may be discounts for children, students, or seniors, or for booking round-trip tickets.

Booking a trip on the TranzAlpine Scenic Train is easy and convenient, whether you choose to book online, through a travel agent, or at the train station.

An unforgettable experience

The TranzAlpine Scenic Train is a must-do attraction for travelers visiting Christchurch, New Zealand. With its stunning views of the Southern Alps, lakes, and forests, and its comfortable amenities and range of activities, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of the South Island.

Greymouth, the terminus of the train, is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its range of activities and natural beauty.

Booking a trip on the TranzAlpine Scenic Train is easy, with several options available including online, through a travel agent, or at the train station. Don’t forget to check for promotions and discounts that may be available.

If you’re planning a trip to Christchurch, consider adding the TranzAlpine Scenic Train to your itinerary. And for a truly memorable experience, consider staying at Hotel 115, a boutique hotel in Christchurch.

Our team would be happy to help you plan a special package that includes tickets on the TranzAlpine Scenic Train and a stay at our hotel. We look forward to welcoming you to Christchurch and helping you make the most of your visit.

January 10, 2023 by Your friends at Hotel 115

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