Ultimate Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch With Jet Boat and TranzAlpine

Nestled at the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana), Arthur’s Pass is steeped in history. Connecting the east and west coasts of Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, the route was originally established by iwi to trade pounamu (greenstone) before it became known to surveyors such as Arthur Dudley Dobson, who would later colonise its status in 1864. Home of the world’s only truly alpine parrot and our namesake, the Kea, the now National Park’s dramatic terrain, powerful waterfalls, unique fauna, native Beech forest, and engineering feats make it a popular destination for hikers and sightseers alike. 

So why not join us as we travel the Great Alpine Highway through the Canterbury plains, across braided rivers, and past famous filming locations to explore the jaw-dropping geology and geography of Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and including a thrilling 30-minute jet boat experience and return to Christchurch aboard the world-famous TranzAlpine, this journey is one you will never forget! 

As this tour operates in an alpine region, the weather can be unpredictable, so please prepare for all conditions. Please note that this tour is not suitable as a shore excursion.

Highlights and inclusions:

Itinerary:

Christchurch – We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head inland, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights.

Selwyn District - On our way, we will drive through the region’s Selwyn District, an important home to some of New Zealand’s key agricultural and horticultural industries. 

 Springfield/Alpine Jet Thrills (45 minutes) - Continuing further, you will be greeted by Springfield, where we will then make our turn off towards the team at Alpine Jet Thrills. It is here that you will embark on your thrilling 30-minute jet boat ride across the braided shallows of the Waimakariri River! Take in the beautiful scenery from one of New Zealand’s most challenging and exhilarating rivers, and discover why Canterbury is the home of jet boating. 

 Lake Lyndon (5 minutes) - Next up, we stop at Lake Lyndon. Nestled at the base of Porters Pass, Lyndon, or Te Hāpua Waikawa, is popular amongst jetboaters, bird watchers, and brave swimmers. It is known as one of this area's colder lakes.

 Castle Hill (1 hour) - Castle Hill, or Kura Tāwhiti, is perhaps one of Canterbury’s most distinguishable settings. Famous for its scenery that would later inspire Middle-earth, nearby Flock Hill, which Castle Hill shares its geology with, went on to become one of the filming locations used for The Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. The weathered limestone rocks sit proudly abreast the tussocky hills that were once in the ocean. Over time, they have eroded away, forming the amazing, unique shapes you see today. While you walk amongst the rocks, you might catch a glimpse of climbers and boulderers who frequent the area. Please note that this is not a guided walk, so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own. 

 Lake Pearson (5 minutes) - Ōpōrea, or Lake Pearson, is the largest of three mountain lakes on the pass. This picturesque glacial lake is surrounded by the Southern Alps, and is a popular spot for swimmers, fishing and visitors. Significantly, the lake was, and is still, used as a site of mahinga kai (food gathering) for local iwi.

 Otira Gorge Lookout (15 minutes) - Also known as Death's Corner, the Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the National Park in all its glory. This bridge is the only reason that driving through Arthur’s Pass is possible today. At 440 metres long, it is a true feat of engineering. The lookout is a great spot for a photo framing view of the iaduct and the surrounding landscape. Keep your eyes peeled at this stop! With a bit of luck, you might even see a wee Cheeky Kea - New Zealand’s sneaky alpine parrot!

 Arthur’s Pass Village (1 hour) - We depart the lookout and head towards Arthur’s Pass Village. Located 740 metres above sea level, you will be able to experience the majestic Southern Alps up close. Once we arrive, you can choose to either walk to Devil's Punch Bowl or grab a coffee and spend some time exploring the local shops. 

Devils Punch Bowl - This walking track is approximately 1 hour long, with a gradual incline (including steps) towards a ferocious 131 metre tall waterfall. Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and native beech forest. 

Please note that, depending on time, your guide will let you know how long you have and will assist you on the day in regard to the best activity for the weather and time allocated.

 TranzAlpine (AHP - CHCH) - A popular highlight of this tour is the return trip to Christchurch aboard the TranzAlpine. Departing Arthur’s Pass, enjoy the views from the train’s open-air carriage as you travel across braided rivers, past high country stations, and around horseshoe bends. This ever-changing landscape is beautiful all year round, allowing you to sit back and relax and take it all in. 

Christchurch - After arriving back in Christchurch, your friendly guide will pick you up from the train station before dropping you off at your pickup point. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!

 Please note that additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks. 

 IMPORTANT: Please note that TranzAlpine bookings are managed by Great Journeys New Zealand, who cannot be held responsible for any missed connections due to delayed train arrivals. If you have onward travel plans (such as flights), please be aware that the service may experience delays of 30 minutes or more beyond the scheduled arrival into Christchurch at 7 pm. As such, we recommend allowing extra time to ensure you have ample time for any connections. Please also note that due to changes to daylight saving, the length of daylight is shortened, meaning that some of the journey may take place in the dark due to earlier sunset. As Great Journeys is a third-party supplier, we are not responsible for any delays or issues that may occur while aboard the TranzAlpine. For concerns or questions, please contact the operator directly.

We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. 

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