A vast, pristine snowfield on the upper reaches of Franz Josef Glacier, with deep crevasses visible on the mountain slopes under a bright sun and wispy clouds.

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Southern Alps & Glaciers Express

Christchurch

Queenstown

2 days, 1 nights

Independent Coach Tours

From: $870 pp

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Tour overview

Begin your adventure on the legendary TranzAlpine, crossing the Canterbury Plains and the dramatic gorges of the Waimakariri River. After ascending the Southern Alps and descending through lush rainforests, you will reach the West Coast and continue by coach toward the icy wonders of Franz Josef. The journey then shifts south through New Zealand at its most untamed, passing moody mountain ranges and wild, rocky shores. You will cross the majestic Haast Pass to witness the vibrant, postcard-perfect blues of Lakes Hawea and Wanaka. Finally, your expedition concludes with a scenic afternoon arrival in the world-renowned resort hub of Queenstown.

While this itinerary serves as a great starting point, we invite you to connect with our travel specialists, who can help tailor these experiences into a larger New Zealand journey personalised to your interests.

Tour highlights & inclusions

2 days / 1 night

Christchurch

Queenstown

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth
Greymouth Train Station to Franz Josef
Glacier Valley Shuttle

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Price pp from

NZD $870

Kiwirail Operating on Certain Days

**Please be advised that certain aspects of this tour may operate on specific days of the week during the winter months. We recommend contacting one of our travel specialists to identify a departure date that suits your schedule.

Trip itinerary

White Glacier Shuttles & Charters bus with trailer parked by a lake with trees and hills in background.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth

The early morning departure is rewarded with incredible scenery today onboard the TranzAlpine Scenic Train. Considered one of the world's great train journeys, it travels between the East Coast, Christchurch and the West Coast, Greymouth. From your carriage, you'll see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. The train then climbs into the Southern Alps passing through small settlements and Arthur's Pass National Park before descending through the lush beech rain forest to the West Coast town of Greymouth, a great base for visits to Punakaiki and the West Coast glaciers.

Accommodation

Two-story motel building with balconies and parking in front, with a green mountain behind.

Punga Grove Motel & Suites

View details

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth

The early morning departure is rewarded with incredible scenery today onboard the TranzAlpine Scenic Train. Considered one of the world's great train journeys, it travels between the East Coast, Christchurch and the West Coast, Greymouth. From your carriage, you'll see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. The train then climbs into the Southern Alps passing through small settlements and Arthur's Pass National Park before descending through the lush beech rain forest to the West Coast town of Greymouth, a great base for visits to Punakaiki and the West Coast glaciers.

Accommodation

Punga Grove Motel & Suites

View details