)
Independent Tours
Rail Journeys
Christchurch & TranzAlpine Rail Discovery Package
Discover the city highlights of Christchurch and travel on one of the world’s greatest train journeys, the TranzAlpine, on this 3 day South Island stopover. Often referred to as the garden city, Christchurch is a blend of historic heritage buildings, modern design, green spaces and vibrant culture. It offers great dining for foodies and is the gateway to explore the scenic snow-capped Southern Alps. You’ll get to experience this wonderful scenery from the panoramic windows of the TranzAlpine train, as well as visit Arthurs Pass and Otira, plus a working sheep station. New Zealand is famous for its spectacular scenery and this region of the South Island will certainly not disappoint. Enjoy city sightseeing combined with natural wonders on this bite size stopover which can be included as part of your perfect holiday itinerary.
From £410pp
Prices based on two adults sharing travelling in low season, excluding international flights.
3 days
or call us 0800 988 5886
Mon - Fri: 9am - 8pm
Saturday: 9am - 6pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
Your holiday includes
Accommodation
2 nights in selected hotel
Excursions
- Explore the garden city of Christchurch
- Take a spectacular journey on the world famous TranzAlpine scenic railway
- Enjoy some spectacular Southern Alps scenery and visit Arthur's Pass National Park and Otira Gorge
Plus
- Airport Transfers – To/from Christchurch International Airport to/from your chosen Christchurch hotel
- Tours as specified
Exceptional value every time
Expertly crafted by us
An exciting range of independent tours and worldwide beach holidays, created with you in mind and completely customisable.
Personalised service
From flight upgrades to flexible stays, our dedicated travel consultants are here to help you build your perfect break, hassle-free.
Your holiday excludes
- International and domestic flights
- Visa (if required)
- Optional excursions
Itinerary
Duration: 3 days
Day 1/3
Arrive Christchurch International Airport - Christchurch
Day 2/3
Christchurch - Arthurs Pass Day Tour - Christchurch
Day 3/3
Christchurch - Depart Christchurch International Airport
)
Day 1 - Arrive Christchurch International Airport - Christchurch
On arrival at Christchurch International Airport, you’ll be met by your driver for a private transfer to your selected Christchurch hotel accommodation, your base for the next 2 nights. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city filled with cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand. Expect street art and innovative projects, a bustling hospitality scene and established green spaces. Christchurch offers a wealth of places of interest and experiences and is easy to get around. A great way to explore is on board one of the restored heritage trams with 18 stops en route including the Canterbury Museum & Botanic Gardens, the Terrace & Riverside Market, Margaret Mahy Playground and New Regent Street. If you are a foodie, you’ll be spoilt for choice with some seriously great dining options and cafes.
Christchurch City Hotel (Standard) / The Observatory Hotel (Superior)
)
Day 2 - Christchurch - Arthurs Pass Day Tour - Christchurch
Today you’ll be joining a full day tour which will take you out of the city to the stunning Southern Alps (up to 45 passengers). You’ll travel by road to Springfield where you’ll board the TranzAlpine train, renowned as one of the top ten train journeys in the world, to travel through the Southern Alps to Arthur's Pass. Your 5 hour rail journey will take you over a distance of 223 kilometres/139 miles one-way and showcase some of the region’s most stunning scenery from the panoramic windows of your carriage. You’ll travel through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partition New Zealand's South Island. The journey finishes at Arthurs Pass, elevated 740 metres above sea level and surrounded by beech forest. Travel by road over the snow-capped Southern Alps to the stunning Otira Gorge and the old village of Otira capturing the beauty of the region and a great photo opportunity. You’ll return to Arthurs Pass with time to explore the village and enjoy lunch (at your own expense). On your return journey to Christchurch there is a stop for the opportunity to do a jet boat ride through the spectacular gorges of the Waimakariri River (at an additional cost). Following the jet boating, a visit will be made to a sheep farm for a late afternoon tea, followed by a sheep shearing and mustering demonstration before returning to Christchurch at 1800hrs.
Christchurch City Hotel (Standard) / The Observatory Hotel (Superior)
)
Day 3 - Christchurch - Depart Christchurch International Airport
Today is your final day in Christchurch. If you have time, the Christchurch Gondola offers stunning panoramic views of the city, Lyttelton Harbour and beyond from the summit station situated atop the Port Hills. You’ll see the snow-capped Southern Alps, sprawling Canterbury Plains and the sparkling waters of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean. And why not wander the city’s open green spaces and gardens or take a stroll along the lovely Avon River that winds through the city, a favourite for punting and picnicking. When it is time to depart, you’ll be met at your hotel for your private transfer back to Christchurch International Airport and your onward flight. If you are continuing your journey in New Zealand, we’d be delighted to help you with your arrangements. Perhaps you’d like to visit Queenstown and then take a cruise in Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound?
-
SIGN UP FOR TRAVEL INSPIRATION & OFFERS
Sign up to our emails for the latest from Saga Holidays.
By providing your details you will receive emails with related content and offers from Saga. You can unsubscribe from this at any time.
For more information click here for our privacy policy.
