We will be travelling from Greymouth to Christchurch. What are the pros and cons of driving Vs. taking the Tranzalpine? We are into photography and wonder if we are better off driving and stopping if we have a photo opportunity rather than taking photos from the train. We can turn our car in in Greymouth or Christchurch so it doesn't matter financially.

Also what are the road conditions? We will have been driving for the past 3 weeks in NZ and will be used to driving on the left so I don't think this will be a problem. This will be around the 20th of November. Weather conditions???

You might hit some rain in November, but it should be OK, weather-wise. The road from Greymouth to Arthurs Pass is quite twisty and narrow in places. After the Pass, the valley widens out and it is a fairly gentle and smooth descent to Christchurch. In contrast, the train runs through a lot of tunnels on the way to the Pass, then descends down a spectacular narrow canyon on the way to Christchurch. If you want photos, I would take a car, as you can stop wherever you want.

Thanks Alf,

You seem to have really good answers to all of my posts. Are you a KIWI or just a well travelled person?

Itchy,

Sorry, I'm a Yank, through and through (Seattle)! I have spent a lot of time in the S Pacific though, including a half-year each in NZ & Oz, while on a sabbatical.

Al F.

Alf

Why apologize??? I'm proud to be a "Yank" as you put it...born and bred New Yorker who has travelled a bit as well. My husband & I spent some time in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. and loved it, especially the San Juan Islands, Port Townsend, Sequim, and Olympic Nat'l. Park. Also did Columbia Gorge, Mt. Hood and Oregon coast while visiting family in Ashland.

Your comments are appreciated. This is the first trip I have made inquiries on a forum like this and it has been very helpful. Thanks again.

I took the tranzalpine from greymouth to christchurch last February. Whilst I thoroughly enjoyed the experience the train is on on the move constantly (apart from stopping at Arthurs Pass). I would recommend travelling by car if you are a budding photographer.

We will be arriving in Christchurch on a Holland America cruise, and want to take the TranzAlpine to Greymouth. I am confused as to whether we must get off in Greymouth and find our own way back via car or bus, or whether we can take the train back to Christchurch the same day. Anyone know? Thanks.

The Tranzalpine arrives in Greymouth at 12.45pm and departs again at 1.45pm for Christchurch. I'm sure lots of people do the return trip - although it's a very long day.