Duration: 7 Days
Price: from NZ $1,399
Departure From: Christchurch
Departure Date: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday*
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Tour Operator: LOCO Journeys
Meal Plan: Selected Breakfasts
Physical Grading: 2
ENQUIRE NOWWinter is a magical time to experience the South Island, and there is something romantic and dreamy about the TranzApine Winter Wonderland rail journey set against a backdrop of snow.
The TranzAlpine Winter Wonderland round trip self-drive tour takes you from the metropolitan city of Christchurch into the Southern Alps, to experience the winter wonderland of Arthur’s Pass, Franz Josef, Queenstown and Mt Cook.
Your journey begins onboard the TranzAlpine scenic train in Christchurch, taking you into the heart of the Southern Alps for an overnight stay in Arthurs Pass. You have time to get a taste of the National Park – drop in to the Visitors Centre and explore one of the short walks, such as Bridle Veil Falls Walk or the Devil’s Punchbowl Walk.
From Arthur’s Pass you continue on the TranzAlpine train to Greymouth on the rugged West Coast. Here you will pickup a rental car and its time to explore at your leisure. There’s lots to do on the West Coast and we’ve made some suggestions in the itinerary below. With some activities its a good idea to book ahead and Loco Journeys can help you arrange this.
Leaving Greymouth, you meander south to Franz Josef. A gem of a town on the edge of the rainforest. A special treat awaits you here as you enjoy your own private wood-fired hot tub, nestled in a lush rainforest setting. A chance to soothe away the days travelling in the comfort of warm water in a very unique atmostphere. An unforgettable experience!
Next stop is the adventure capital of the world – Queenstown – where you stay for 2 nights. In winter this town is alive with the buzz of visitors to the snow. There are a myriad of activities that await you – from a day’s sking or snowboarding to a leisurely wine tour of the Gibbston Valley. We’ve included entry and a drink at the Minus 5 Ice Bar where you will be dressed up warm to explore the intricately Ice carved world.
Mt Cook is your last destination of winter wonderland before returning to Christchurch. Take time to go through the Sir Edmund Hillary Centre at the Hermitage Hotel, explore one of the walking/biking trails, Big Sky Stargazing or have the ultimate ice adventure with a boat tour to view the Tasman Glacier!
Please contact LOCO for any pre/post travel arrangements we can help you with beyond your Winter Wonderland package.
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
The TranzAlpine has recently brought in 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 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.
Bella Vista Greymouth and Bella Vista Franz Josef offer the perfect no-fuss central accommodation. You will be assigned a comfortable, warm Queen Studio unit with ensuite bathroom.
Holiday Inn Express and Suites is a brand-new hotel in a prime location in Queenstown offering stylish rooms and free breakfast.
Aoraki Court Motel offers spacious, modern accommodation within the Aoraki/Mt Cook Village. Each motel unit has stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
For a detailed itinerary, the TranzAlpine timetable, departure days, and TranzAlpine 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.