TranzAlpine Train Journey: de Christchurch a Greymouth

This was a fantastic introduction to the wonderful South Island of New Zealand. We traveled from Christchurch to Greymouth on a glorious sunny day. The only downside of that was the sun shining too brightly on the RHS of the train when we were trying to take photos of all the wonderful scenery we passed. The trip is just over 4 hours and there is a couple of stops; you can stretch your legs at Arthurs Pass and get off the train for a photo opportunity. The seats are very comfortable with heaps of room and a fold down table in the back of the seat in front. There are plenty of attentive staff and the cafe car was well utilised on our trip as it had a good variety of hot and cold food and drinks. The open air train carriage is great for photo taking although it is closed at times when it is unsafe to be in the carriage in tunnels etc. We thought the 4 hours might drag but we couldn't have been more wrong. We spent the whole trip ogling the views...mountains, fields, tunnels, rivers, valleys...it had it all. We didn't take the premium option which offers seats in a dedicated carriage and offers a lunch. We feel that that would detract from the whole scenic experience. This train trip was the best way to travel this pass. Highly recommend.

The trip from Arthur’s Pass to Greymouth was cancelled. I am still waiting for a refund for half the trip.

Excellent train journey. Stunning scenery all the way. Arthur's Pass stop was cute. The staff were very good. Decent cafe-restaurant car with reasonable prices. Seats are spacious and comfortable. Mobile device charging points for each seat. Book early as the train was booked to capacity. Check in larger bags. The check-in at Christchurch railway station is good. The collection point at Greymouth takes time. Be patient. The travel overview on the train itself is informative and useful. Do visit the open-air carriage (wearing a jacket). Relax and enjoy. Great little train trip, that takes half a day.

Nice clean and comfortable carriages. The ceiling windows make for the extra views. I had a table on my seat which was a helpful touch. Commentary was optional. Cafe and food options had a good selection, and staff serving were friendly

I have done this trip twice now. The first time was the best as there was plenty of snow on the mountains making it very picturesque and beautiful. This time around there was only a little snow and the train frequently had to stop along the track for work being undertaken so we arrived late into Greymouth from Christchurch. If you do decide to take the Tranzalphine Train make sure there is a decent amount of snow as it makes a huge difference. Staff are very pleasant and helpful.

The train carriage have massive windows so everyone has an incredible view. There is even an outdoor carriage so you can breathe in the fresh air! A great cafe with fresh food and beverage choices that you can enjoy whilst looking at the magnificent views. There is even commentary via an app if you choose to listen. Staff were attentive and extremely professional. Absolutely a highlight of our trip.

We did the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth return yesterday in what was a very big but fantastic day. We chose to travel the first leg in Scenic class and returned from Greymouth to Christchurch in the upgraded Scenic Plus. Both were extremely enjoyable and whilst Scenic Plus is considerably more expensive, it is very nice indeed! Think linen tablecloths, fine glassware, nice wines and an even more comfortable dedicated railcar with its own dedicated kitchen car. The train was spotless inside & out, the staff superb and the running commentary and service notices could not have been communicated any clearer or better. Our service experienced a number of Signals issues, mostly on the way over, which delayed our arrival and subsequent departure from Greymouth, but again - fully communicated each step of the way and those needing to transfer to bus services in Greymouth were fully accommodated. We have been lucky enough to enjoy a number of significant rail journeys over the years and I’m delighted to add TranzAlpine to that list.

What a fantastic experience. So relaxing. Train so comfortable , clean and also very quiet . Views are worth seeing. Cafe was very nice. Staff all lovely. I decided to stay in Greymouth for the night to have a look around , next time I wouldn’t bother. 1 hour would be enough time.

Such a stunning train with near new facilities, carriages and comfort. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable and couldn't fault the experience at all

Great way to sit back and enjoy the scenery without having to pay attention to the road. Recommend downloading the app to get more info about the journey.