TranzAlpine, Christchurch
The TranzAlpine train is not just a means of transport but an unforgettable experience that showcases the majestic landscapes of New Zealand's South Island. This passenger train journey spans 223 kilometers (139 miles) across the Midland Line, from Christchurch to Greymouth, and is often celebrated as one of the world's greatest train journeys. The route it traverses is renowned for its stunning scenery, which includes the remarkable Southern Alps, making it a bucket-list adventure for many.
The journey itself takes nearly five hours one-way, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking views through panoramic windows. The route includes 16 tunnels and four viaducts, with the Staircase Viaduct being a highlight, elevated as much as 75 meters (246 feet) above the ground. This engineering marvel, along with the natural beauty it navigates, exemplifies the unique experience the TranzAlpine offers.
Passengers on the TranzAlpine are treated to luxury travel amenities, including reclined chairs, spacious cabins, and a licensed cafe carriage, enhancing the sightseeing experience. The train connects the East Coast to the West Coast, passing through notable locations such as Rolleston, Darfield, Springfield, Arthur's Pass, Otira, and Moana (Lake Brunner). Along the way, travelers are treated to views of epic snow-capped mountains and breathtaking viaducts, making the journey a showcase of New Zealand's world-famous natural beauty.
The TranzAlpine offers more than just a rail journey; it is a panoramic exploration of the very best of New Zealand's landscapes, making it a must-do for both locals and tourists alike.
The journey itself takes nearly five hours one-way, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking views through panoramic windows. The route includes 16 tunnels and four viaducts, with the Staircase Viaduct being a highlight, elevated as much as 75 meters (246 feet) above the ground. This engineering marvel, along with the natural beauty it navigates, exemplifies the unique experience the TranzAlpine offers.
Passengers on the TranzAlpine are treated to luxury travel amenities, including reclined chairs, spacious cabins, and a licensed cafe carriage, enhancing the sightseeing experience. The train connects the East Coast to the West Coast, passing through notable locations such as Rolleston, Darfield, Springfield, Arthur's Pass, Otira, and Moana (Lake Brunner). Along the way, travelers are treated to views of epic snow-capped mountains and breathtaking viaducts, making the journey a showcase of New Zealand's world-famous natural beauty.
The TranzAlpine offers more than just a rail journey; it is a panoramic exploration of the very best of New Zealand's landscapes, making it a must-do for both locals and tourists alike.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Christchurch. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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TranzAlpine on Map
Sight Name: TranzAlpine
Sight Location: Christchurch, New Zealand (See walking tours in Christchurch)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Sight Location: Christchurch, New Zealand (See walking tours in Christchurch)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Walking Tours in Christchurch, New Zealand
Create Your Own Walk in Christchurch
Creating your own self-guided walk in Christchurch is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Statues and Memorials Tour
Although Christchurch is not very large, it has a wealth of public art heritage. Although ravaged by a powerful earthquake in 2011, which caused severe damage to many local attractions, Christchurch nonetheless has retained much of its charm and has a lot to offer visitors in terms of sightseeing. Indeed, there is no shortage of beautiful buildings, parks, gardens and other places of interest... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.4 Km or 0.9 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.4 Km or 0.9 Miles
Christchurch Introduction Walking Tour
Captain James Cook was not the first person to discover New Zealand. There is evidence that the Christchurch area was visited by groups of moa-hunting people as early as 1250 AD.
They were followed by the Waitaha from the east coast of the North Island in the 16th century. In a series of wars Waitaha were displaced by the Ngati Mamoe, who in turn were conquered by the Ngai Tahu. The Europeans... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
They were followed by the Waitaha from the east coast of the North Island in the 16th century. In a series of wars Waitaha were displaced by the Ngati Mamoe, who in turn were conquered by the Ngai Tahu. The Europeans... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles