• Alpine Jet Thrills - Canyon Safaris (Springfield) - As the journey progresses through the Selwyn District, Springfield welcomes you before turning towards the team at Alpine Jet Thrills. Here, embark on an exhilarating 30-minute jet boat ride across the braided shallows of the Waimakariri River! Enjoy the stunning scenery of one of New Zealand’s most challenging and thrilling rivers, and discover why Canterbury is renowned as the home of jet boating.
• Lake Lyndon - The next stop is Lake Lyndon. Situated at the base of Porters Pass, Lyndon, or Te Hāpua Waikawa, is a favorite among jet boaters, bird watchers, and adventurous swimmers. It is recognized as one of the colder lakes in the area.
• Castle Hill - Castle Hill, or Kura Tāwhiti, is one of Canterbury’s most iconic landscapes. Known for its scenery that inspired Middle Earth™, nearby Flock Hill, sharing its geology with Castle Hill, became a filming location for The Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. The weathered limestone rocks stand proudly on the tussocky hills that were once submerged in the ocean. Over time, they have eroded into the unique shapes seen today. While exploring the rocks, you might spot climbers and boulderers who frequent the area. Please note that this is a self-guided walk, allowing you to explore this beautiful site independently.
• Lake Pearson - Ōpōrea, or Lake Pearson, is the largest of three mountain lakes on the pass. This scenic glacial lake, surrounded by the Southern Alps, is a popular destination for swimmers, fishing enthusiasts, and visitors. Importantly, the lake has been and continues to be used as a site of mahinga kai (food gathering) for local iwi.
• Otira Viaduct Lookout - Also known as Death’s Corner, the Otira Viaduct Lookout offers a stunning view of the National Park in all its splendor. This bridge is the reason driving through Arthur’s Pass is possible today. At 440 meters long, it is a remarkable engineering achievement. The lookout is an excellent spot for photos framing the viaduct and the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out at this stop! With some luck, you might even spot a cheeky Kea - New Zealand’s mischievous alpine parrot!
• Arthur’s Pass National Park - Departing the lookout, the journey continues towards Arthur’s Pass Village. Situated 740 meters above sea level, you can experience the majestic Southern Alps up close. Upon arrival, choose to either walk to Devils Punch Bowl or enjoy a coffee while exploring the local shops.
• Devils Punchbowl Walking Track - The Devils Punch Bowl walking track is approximately 1 hour long, with a gradual incline (including steps) leading to a spectacular 131-meter tall waterfall. The fitness level required is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and native beech forest.

Please note that depending on the time, your guide will inform you of the duration available and assist you in selecting the best activity based on the weather and time allocated.

• TranzAlpine: Scenic Train Christchurch - Greymouth - The highlight of this tour is the return trip to Christchurch aboard the TranzAlpine. Departing Arthur’s Pass, enjoy the views from the train’s open-air carriage.

IMPORTANT: Please note that TranzAlpine bookings are managed by Great Journeys New Zealand, who cannot be held responsible for any missed connections due to delayed train arrivals. If you have onward travel (such as flights), please be aware that the service may experience delays of 30 minutes or more beyond the scheduled arrival into Christchurch at 7pm. As such, we recommend allowing extra time to ensure you have ample time for any connections. Please also note that due to changes to daylight saving, the length of daylight is shortened meaning that some of the journey may take place in the dark due to earlier sun setting. As Great Journeys is a third party supplier, we are not responsible for any delays or issues that may occur while aboard the TranzAlpine. For concerns or questions, please contact the operator directly.

• TranzAlpine Train Ticket
• Jet Boat Ride
• Lunch
• Snacks
• Bottled water
• On-board WiFi
• In-vehicle air conditioning

Arthur’s Pass is nestled deep within New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Your journey will take you along the Great Alpine Highway, showcasing ever-changing and remarkable landscapes. This tour features impressive engineering feats, stunning waterfalls, and renowned filming locations.

Your day begins with a pickup from your selected accommodation, followed by a drive towards Arthur’s Pass. Our knowledgeable and friendly guide will highlight the breathtaking views along the way. During this tour, you’ll witness a range of scenery from verdant fields to rugged mountain ranges, lush forests, and ice-fed lakes and rivers!

There are numerous stops along the route, including an exhilarating jet boat experience. On the return trip to Christchurch, you’ll board the world-famous TranzAlpine train back to the city. Naturally, we’ll also pause at those must-see Instagram-worthy spots along the way.

• Travel time is included in the tour duration.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.