Explore South Island’s stunning natural landscape on this full-day guided group tour to Arthurs Pass National Park by TranzAlpine, one of the world’s great scenic train routes. From Christchurch, the train crosses the Canterbury Plains, winds its way to the spectacular Waimakariri Gorge along rugged mountain ranges and into the heart of the Southern Alps. At Arthurs Pass, accompanied by your guide, proceed by minivan into Arthurs Pass National Park. Drive on an old stagecoach route through dense beech forests, taking in breathtaking views of Otira Gorge. En route, stop for short bushwalks to splendid waterfalls and alpine lookouts. Along the way, you might spot New Zealand’s comical alpine parrot, the kea. Continue onward to the hamlet of Arthurs Pass, stopping to view the craggy cliffs at Cave Stream and weatherworn limestone outcrops of Castle Hill Rocks. After lunch at a historic country hotel, return to Christchurch by road via the sub-alpine Porter’s Pass and the Canterbury Plains. (Duration: Full Day; Time: 0730 hrs; Shared Activity & Transfers; Shared Guide; Fitness Level: Moderate; Included: Train Tickets, Entrance Fees, Lunch; Please wear sturdy walking shoes. Carry water. Please inform us of any food allergies in advance).