Hi,

We will go across Arthur's Pass in February. The original plan was to rent a car in Christchurch, and drive across. We will have one there anyway, so as to explore Akaroa/Banks Peninsula. After reading several threads on here, I realize the majority prefer the train ride, which seems to travel through more dramatic scenery. When we exit the train at Greymouth, are rental car agencies right at the station?

Hi There

Just to let you know that Budget have their offices at the railway station in Greymouth. That way you can pick up your car with ease when you arrive. The other majors have offices or agencies in Greymouth and can arrange for the cars to be at the station for pickup.

Hope this helps

Steve

Thanks, Steve. I'll look into Budget. I figured there must be a regular pick-up for most others, as many travellers must opt to do this.

I believe there were 2 rental agencies right in the train station. The cars are parked right outside so off you'll go. If you're planning on heading south you can take the early train to Greymouth from CC and make it to Franz Josef no problem during daylight once you pick up your car.

Happy travels!

Hi mosthecat,

We booked our Tranzalpine tickets and our rental car on line before leaving home. The vehicle was waiting for us at Greymouth railway station and we returned it two weeks later to the international airport in Christchurch. An unexpected benefit in driving from Greymouth was that we were travelling in the opposite direction to the majority of large tourist coaches.

There are often good deals on line. For comparison purposes, you might be interested in this site - http://www.ginz.com/new_zealand/west...cars/greymouth