By Train in Christchurch and Canterbury

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By Train

One of the greatest little train journeys in the world, the TranzAlpine Express, travels through the Southern Alps to the West Coast, weaving through gorgeous scenery, from the tawny fields of the Canterbury Plains through rugged gorges and high mountains to the jade green, wild West Coast bush. One daily train each way goes between Christchurch and Greymouth; the one-way trip takes 4 1/2 hours, leaving Christchurch at 8:15 AM and Greymouth at 12:45 PM.

The TranzAlpine and the TransCoastal (to Kaikoura and Picton) are all that remains of the South Island's once-extensive train network. The TranzAlpine Express heads daily from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass Village at 8:15 AM. The train carries on from there to Greymouth, returning later in the day to Christchurch. The TransCoastal to Kaikoura and Picton leaves daily at 7 AM.

Train Station

Christchurch Railway Station (Troup Dr. 0800/872-468).

Train Information

Tranz Scenic (0800/872-467. www.tranzscenic.co.nz).

TranzAlpine (0800/872-467. www.tranzscenic.co.nz).