Travel bucket list idea:
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This 5-hour (one-way) coast-to-coast train takes you through New Zealand’s ‘Great Divide’, the spine of mountains running down the islands’ centre.
You’ll wind along the Waimakariri River valley, cross the Canterbury Plains, pass through gorges and rainforests, ascend into Arthur’s Pass, and explore the lush plains of Inchbonnie.
The carriages have glass sides to maximise the views from the comfort of your seat, and there is also an outdoor viewing carriage that anyone can use.
If you can work it into your itinerary, it’s a relaxing way to see New Zealand’s spectacular interior.
Book tickets ahead of time on the government’s train services website.
You could in theory make a day trip of it – it’s 10 hours on the train, plus a one-hour layover in Greymouth before the return leg to Christchurch.
The train operates daily, departing from Christchurch early morning, and Greymouth after lunch.
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
South Islands, New Zealand
A primordial playground with truly spectacular scenery on the grandest scale, outdoor adventure activities galore, colourful and compelling Maori culture and terribly nice Kiwis.
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
Be it jaw-dropping scenery, a rich historical significance, the tradition and atmosphere of the train itself – or a combination of all three – here’s our round-up of the world’s best.
