Duration: 2 Days
Price: from NZ$845
Departure From: Christchurch
Departure Date: Flexible Dates
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Tour Operator: LOCO Journeys
Physical Grading: 2
ENQUIRE NOWEnjoy a Taste of the West Coast with this brilliant TranzAlpine tour including an overnight stay and return rail journey.
The TranzAlpine is a spectacularly scenic rail trip running from the East Coast to the West Coast of the South Island. Match this with an overnight in Greymouth and take a glimpse into the life of a ‘Coaster’.
In spring, the vista out of the train window is starting to come alive. From the green pastures filled with playful lambs, the graceful weeping willows that show off their spring growth, to the newly emerging Alpine Flowers around Arthur’s Pass. And do not forget there is always a chance of a magical spring dump of snow! In winter snow will cover the mountains and sometimes the whole landscape. Summer offers the brown hues of tussock and green grasslands.
Your Taste of the West Coast departs from Christchurch Railway Station rolling out of the city and onto the expansive pastures of the Canterbury Plains. From here you will meet the Waimakariri River Gorge to make the ascent into the Southern Alps.
Before reaching Arthur’s Pass you will have encountered 15 short tunnels and crossed 4 dramatic viaducts. Have your camera ready as this last section crossing the Waimakariri River one last time is stunningly beautiful and will leave a lasting impression on one’s psyche.
The train will stop briefly at Arthur’s Pass before descending through the 8.5km long historic Otira Tunnel to re-emerge out the other side into the vibrant and lush green landscape of the West Coast. From here to Greymouth the train tracks meander along a series of river valleys nestled between the mountainous hills. Midway the train approaches Lake Brunner and the quaint fishing town of Moana sitting on its northern edge. This is a great alternative stop to Greymouth as the area is incredibly attractive with an abundance of walks.
Contact LOCO if you would like a package price to stay at the beautiful Lake Brunner which offers a slightly different taste of the West Coast.
The West Coast has a natural rugged beauty, along with its remoteness, lush rainforests, and its rich gold and coal mining history, its no wonder visitors are drawn here from all over the world. On your stay you will be taken to a few of the West Coast’s little gems.
You’ll explore the famous Punakaiki Blowholes and Pancake Rocks, a limestone landscape of pancake-shaped rock formations, blowholes and surge pools. You’ll experience an exhilarating treetop adventure, strolling in the canopy of New Zealand’s famous rainforest, listening to the birdsong while gazing at the breathtaking vistas, before visiting the Hokitika Gorge and its surreal turquoise waters.
LOCO Journeys can tailor-make this tour to a journey that delivers you to your desired destinations, your time, budget and the train timetable.
Fully Flexible Tour
Please Note: Operating days for Taste of the West Coast are train timetable dependent so please do Contact Us to discuss your travel options.
A longer package with a one-way TranzAlpine train journey and return or onward travel by car-hire or a return flight to Christchurch can be arranged.
Prices will be adjusted accordingly and are available upon application.
The TranzAlpine offers two distinct service levels to their train journey. Both classes are worthy of what you pay, and both a thoroughly enjoyable way to make the most of your TranzAlpine train experience.
Glide through the heart of New Zealand’s beautiful scenery in Scenic Class carriages, with epic landscape views filling your window while you relax in your seat.
In Scenic Class you’ll experience spacious reclined seats with generous amounts of legroom and comfort, panoramic windows, glass shelves and skylights. And to heighten your comfort, state-of-the-art airbag suspension has been used to guarantee a smooth ride across our rugged New Zealand terrain.
While onboard, you might like a stroll to the Scenic Cafe carriage where you’ll find a great selection of hot and cold snacks, drinks and ice creams. Indulge in a freshly brewed specialty tea or barista coffee married with a sumptuous cake? Or perhaps toast your special journey with a bottle of bubbles?
The Scenic Cafe opens for coffee and breakfast before the train departs and continues serving throughout the day. You can take a seat in the Scenic Cafe carriage and feast upon the views whilst eating. But you are also welcome to return to your seat to dine and drink if you would prefer. The day is yours to do as you choose!
During the hot summer months, the Open-air Viewing Carriage is a great place to get some fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors while on the move. You can whittle away the hours chatting and gazing out upon spectacular scenery and wildlife. It is also that perfect place for capturing those magical views on camera.
Learn the stories of our land while you travel by plugging into the Scenic Class Audio Commentary at your seat. The commentary provides a seamless stream of stories, narratives and facts about the places outside your window and is available on all three Scenic Class services, including the Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine.
Inside the refined Scenic Plus Class carriages, it’s more than just a journey. You’ll be treated to fresh food, captivating commentary, great hosting and spectacular views, all delivered to your seat while you ease back and enjoy the journey. There really is no better way to discover New Zealand.
At the heart of the Scenic Plus experience is the refined Scenic Plus Class carriage, with huge panoramic windows, glass shelves and skylights, bathing you in those gorgeous coastal and mountain landscapes.
With freshly prepared food inspired by the fields that glide past your window and regional wines to match, you’ll be immersed in the flavours of our land. As you admire the views and savour the flavours, our Scenic Plus hosts will recount the stories and histories of the passing landscapes and landmarks.
When you step off the train, you will have experienced some of the best New Zealand has to offer and you’ll be prepared to enjoy your taste of the West Coast.
Bella Vista Greymouth offers the perfect no-fuss accommodation close to central Greymouth. You will be assigned a comfortable, warm Queen Studio unit with ensuite bathroom.
For a detailed Taste of the West Coast itinerary, the TranzAlpine timetable, departure days, and Tranz Alpine fare conditions, please see below.
Click here for alternate South Island tours featuring the TranzAlpine train.
For more information about this tour, price queries and updates on specials, please Enquire Now.