Ultimate Arthur's Pass with Tranzalpine & Jet Boat Experience

Please note that this is a sample itinerary. 

9:00 AM - Depart the Garden City with a friendly guide, as we head north towards our destination. Along the way, our knowledgeable driver will point out some of Christchurch’s key highlights, giving you an insight into this beautiful city.

Springfield / Alpine Jet - Passing through the Selwyn District, we’ll arrive at the charming town of Springfield, where we turn off towards Alpine Jet. Here, you’ll gear up for an exhilarating 25-minute jet boat ride on the Waimakariri River—where jet boating originated! After your thrilling ride, enjoy a peaceful riverside stroll through native bush, feed the pet lambs, or explore the unique finds at the Alpine Boutique.

 Lake Pearson / Lake Lyndon - Next, we’ll visit Lake Pearson, the largest of the three mountain lakes in this area, surrounded by the spectacular Southern Alps. A popular spot for swimmers, anglers, and visitors alike, it offers stunning views of the glacial landscape. We’ll also stop briefly at Lake Lyndon, nestled beneath Porters Pass—a scenic spot for jet boaters and bird watchers.

Castle Hill - Our journey then takes us to the awe-inspiring Castle Hill, where ancient limestone rock formations create a truly unique landscape. These striking boulders have been shaped over time and are a favourite for climbers and movie buffs alike. You may recognise this location from iconic films such as The Lord of the Rings and Narnia. Enjoy an hour exploring these fascinating formations at your own pace.

Otira Gorge Lookout - Also known as “Death’s Corner”, this dramatic viewpoint offers a spectacular panorama of the national park. Here, you’ll see the impressive Otira Viaduct, an engineering marvel that spans 440 metres and makes travelling through Arthur’s Pass possible. Keep an eye out for the cheeky Kea, New Zealand's playful alpine parrot!

Arthur's Pass Village - We’ll continue to Arthur’s Pass village, set against the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps. You can choose to hike the Devil’s Punch Bowl track, which leads to a magnificent 131-metre waterfall, or spend your time exploring the village’s local shops and cafés.

Devil’s Punch Bowl - This one-hour walk involves a gentle incline and some steps as you make your way through native bush to the base of a powerful waterfall. The track is suitable for most fitness levels, offering a rewarding view at the end.

Arthur’s Pass Village – Alternatively, you can relax in the village, grab a bite to eat or coffee, and browse for locally-made goodies. Our driver will keep you informed about departure times to ensure you make the most of your visit.

Board TranzAlpine - After an action-packed day, you’ll board the famous TranzAlpine train for a scenic journey back across the Canterbury Plains. The train features open viewing carriages and large panoramic windows, giving you stunning views of the landscape as you relax on your return trip.

7:00 PM - Arrive at Christchurch Train Station and meet your driver, who will drop you back at your accommodation.

As this tour operates in an alpine region the weather can be unpredictable. In the event of bad weather this tour will continue to Greymouth and Lake Brunner.