Inspirational Alps; Christchurch to Queenstown

Duration: 7 Days

Price: from NZ$6,199

Departure From: Christchurch

Departure Date: Monthly Departures

Tour Type: Escorted Tours

Meal Plan: B&B and selected meals

Physical Grading: 2/5

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Join us on an unforgettable journey through the South Island on a Christchurch to Queenstown train adventure.

Travel off the beaten track in comfort and style as we guide you on this scenic adventure of a lifetime from Christchurch to Queenstown.

The journey is part of the destination on our tours, and our Scenic trains are the ultimate way to see New Zealand.

On our Signature Inspirational Alps tour, your journey begins aboard the world-famous TranzAlpine, traversing the rugged cliffs of the Waimakariri River gorge on your ascent into the Southern Alps. 

From Arthur’s Pass, you will descend through the century-old Otira tunnel that stretches 8.5km beneath the great divide. On the far side, you’ll wind through the lush green scenery of West Coast on your way past Lake Brunner and onto Greymouth. 

Lastly, from Greymouth you will travel by luxury bus along the famous Great Coast Road – one of the most beautiful roads in the world. Don’t miss out on our inspirational Alps, Christchurch to Queenstown tour.

Christchurch to Queenstown train tour map

Inspirational Alps; Christchurch to Queenstown Train Tour Highlights

  • Experience the Southern Alps by world-renowned TranzAlpine train journey, the fabled rail sector on your Christchurch to Queenstown train tour.
  • Uncover the home of the sacred pounamu, mesmerising blue lakes, and ancient forests on the West Coast
  • Discover Haast Pass on a unique Kiwi-style Road Trip adventure
  • Be captivated by the storytelling of your local Tour Director along this great journey
  • Explore the Milford Sound aboard a scenic cruise
  • Admire the sparkling Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship
South Island New Zealand
Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw

Inspirational Alps; Christchurch to Queenstown Train Tour Included Excursions

Christchurch Tramway Restaurant – Enjoy a 4-course dinner aboard Christchurch’s historic Tramway restaurant and travelin heritage style through the city centre at night.

Christchurch Tramway
Hop aboard your unique tramway restaurant

West Coast Tree Top Walkway – Get an elevated perspective of the wild and verdant West Coast on a treetop canopy walk.

TSS Earnslaw Dinner Cruise – Voyage across the pristine Lake Wakatipu with its stunning mountain backdrop for a sumptuous BBQ dinner at Walter Peak and a steamship cruise.

Milford Sound Day Tour – Add New Zealand’s most popular day out to your trip and explore the beauty of Fiordland and the irrepressible Milford Sound.

TranzAlpine Scenic Class
Take in the view aboard the TranzAlpine

For a detailed itinerary of your Christchurch to Queenstown train tour, departure details, and booking conditions, please see below.

Departure Dates from Christchurch:

  • 23 November 2024
  • 14 December 2024
  • 1 February 2025 – SOLD OUT
  • 6 February 2025 – SOLD OUT
  • 16 February 2025 – SOLD OUT
  • 22 February 2025 – $6,199
  • 1 March 2025 – Limited, please enquire
  • 22 March 2025 – $6,199
  • 23 March 2025 reverse trip only Queenstown to Christchurch – $6,199
  • 12 April 2025 – $6,199
  • 19 April 2025 – $6,199
  • 20 April 2025 – reverse trip only Queenstown to Christchurch – $6,199
  • 26 April 2025 – $6,199
  • 13 September 2025 – $6,399
  • 21 September 2025 – reverse trip only from Queenstown to Christchurch – $6,399
  • 04 October 2025 – $6,399
  • 18 October 2025 – $6,399
  • 25 October 2025 – $6,399
  • 15 November 2025 – $6,399
  • 06 December 2025 – $6,399
  • 20 December 2025 – $6,399
  • 10 January 2026 – $6,399
  • 24 January 2026 – $6,399
  • 31 January 2026 – $6,399
  • 14 Februrary 2026 – $6,399
  • 28 Februrary 2026 – $6,399
  • 07 March 2026 – $6,399
  • 28 March 2026 – $6,399
  • 11 April 2026 – $6,399
  • 18 April 2026 – $6,399
  • 25 April 2026 – $6,399

All departure dates on the Inspirational Alps Christchurch to Queenstown train tour are guaranteed to operate. Availability and prices are subject to change.

Click here for alternate New Zealand tours.

Tour Inclusions

  • TranzAlpine Scenic Train
  • Christchurch Historic Tramway Restaurant
  • West Coast Tree Top Walk
  • Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk
  • Haast River Safari
  • Milford Sound Day Tour and Cruise
  • TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise and Dinner Excursion
  • Private Coaches to reach regional gems
  • Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
  • 6 Breakfasts, 1 Lunches, 3 Dinners, 1 Meals on Trains
  • 4-4.5 star hotel accommodation (twin share)
  • All sightseeing and entrance fees as specified in the itinerary.

Pricing Notes

  • Advertised price based on per person, twin share
  • Non-refundable deposit of 20% per person is due at the time of booking
  • Full non-refundable balance of tour payment is required 66 days prior to departure booking
  • A single supplement is available or you can choose to match up with another single travelle
  • Price is subject to change unless paid in full
  • Full terms and conditions will be advised at the time of booking.
  • Maximum group size 20 people

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 | Chriustchurch (D)
Kia Ora! Welcome to Christchurch – New Zealand’s Garden City! The largest city in the South Island, Christchurch is known for its historical earthquake in 2011 and how it rebuilt itself into a charming, multicultural city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican 'gothic revival' architectural influence. After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Christchurch has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to wander through the enticing stalls at Riverside Market or explore the botanical gardens before heading to the art gallery, museums, and other city attractions. After an exciting day on the town, your journey will officially begin as you meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director at aboard Christchurch’s historic tramway restaurant.
The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine journey through the Southern Alps, emerging in the West Coast! On this fantastic escape, you will see epic vistas, soar on the edges of the ice fed Waimakariri River, traverse through the Great Divide, and experience ever-changing landscapes. The natural scenery isn’t the only marvel, though. The TranzAlpine passes through the Otira Tunnel, a true engineering marvel of 100 years! Once you arrive on the West Coast, a private coach will take you even further off the beaten track to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Here you will explore curious limestone formations and blowholes before finishing your day in the ocean-front town of Hokitika.
This morning you’ll start your West Coast adventure by visiting one of the South Island’s most popular activities – the Tree Top Walk. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees. After your sky-high experience, continue south into Glacier Country. Franz Josef Glacier is quite special in that it survives in coastal rainforest temperatures. With a short walk to a viewpoint, you'll get a fantastic view of the vast valley, as well as a sneak peak of Franz Josef Glacier itself. If you would prefer to get up close, we recommend booking an optional helicopter flight. This will ensure you are getting the best possible view of this natural wonder. After indulging in the local activities and retail therapy in Franz Josef’s souvenir shops, join your group for an impeccable highlight meal at Te Waonui Forest Retreat.
Today you will explore the Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey of about five hours to Queenstown, will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. While aboard an exciting river boat and private coach, marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and majestic glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems. Stop in unique locations that only locals know about. Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore the local fruit hotspot – Mrs. Jones’ Fruit Stall, before exploring the cobblestone streets of Arrowtown. After an exciting plunge into the history of this gold rush village, you will arrive in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown!
Make sure you charge your camera before you set off on today’s adventure. Today you’re heading to Milford Sound/ Piopiotahi to be engulfed in towering peaks and waltz through plunging valleys. After travelling through native rainforests, meadows, and past beautiful reflective pools, you will join your cruise in Milford Sound. Enjoy one of the most stunning natural features New Zealand has to offer. Aboard the cruise, you will meander down the sound to experience the rumble of Bowen and Stirling Falls as they plummet from glacial hanging valleys. Marvel at the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak, rising from the deep waters of the fjord. Or if you’d like to soar like the Piopio (ancient bird), why not elevate your day by booking a flight into the Sound by plane? After this adventure, you will be heading back to Queenstown for a relaxing evening.
Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active or relaxed as you’d like. Whether it’s exploring Walter Peak on a horse trekking adventure, hopping on the gondola for inspiring views, or sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses. Enjoy a ‘final hurrah’ this evening as we board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise, dinner, and show. Reflect on your great adventure with your fellow travellers as you cruise to your dining experience at Walter peak overlooking the beautiful Table Bay. Sit back and watch a true Kiwi experience as you learn about sheep shearing and dog herding in this beautiful setting. This evening will truly encapsulate your great journey as a truly New Zealand highlight. Not ready to call it a night? Sip cocktails and indulge in Queenstown’s exciting nightlife alongside the sparkling Lake Wakatipu.
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers. Not ready to leave Queenstown? Reach out to the LOCO Journeys team to pre-organise your extended stay.

For more information about this tour, price queries and updates on specials, please Enquire Now.