Christchurch to Franz Josef One Way Day Tour with TranzAlpine
Overview
Travel from Christchurch to Franz Josef on one of New Zealand’s most iconic journeys, combining the legendary TranzAlpine train with a fully guided West Coast road trip. Glide through the Southern Alps by rail before meeting your Cheeky Kiwi guide and heading deep into glacier country. From turquoise gorges and wild black-sand beaches to rainforest-fringed lakes, this day is packed with bucket-list scenery. Small groups, passionate guides, and unforgettable landscapes, this is the West Coast done right.
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What's Included
✓ Included
- Water available & snacks provided
- Guided bus tour: Greymouth to Franz Josef
- Tranzalpine Train: Christchurch to Greymouth
- Sit down - free choice from a set menu
- Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
✗ Not Included
- Drop off in Fox Glacier
- Restroom on board
Itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your adventure begins with a transfer to Tower Junction to board the TranzAlpine. Settle in and enjoy panoramic carriages as you journey through river valleys, alpine passes, and the heart of the Southern Alps.
2
Stop 2
Meet your Cheeky Kiwi guide and continue west by road. Greymouth is the Coast’s main hub and your gateway to wild beaches, rainforest and glaciers, where you'll stop for lunch. Note: As the train is operated by a third party, delays of up to 30 minutes are possible.
3
Stop 3
A quick coastal stop where crashing waves meet the iconic breakwater. A favourite for dramatic ocean photos.
4
Stop 4
Soak up the laid-back vibe of Hokitika. Stroll the wild black-sand beach and check out the famous Hokitika sign with the Tasman Sea as your backdrop.
5
Stop 5
Venture inland to the jaw-dropping Hokitika Gorge. Bright turquoise water, swing bridges, and native bush make this a photographer’s dream.
6
Stop 6
A peaceful roadside stop at Lake Ianthe, surrounded by podocarp forest and wetlands rich with birdlife.
7
Stop 7
Arrive in Franz Josef, where your guide will assist with accommodation drop-off. Your glacier country adventure is just getting started. Drop off to central Franz Josef accommodations only.
Meeting & End Point
📍
Meeting Point
PICKUP TIME: 7:08am. Please meet your guide at the InterCity Bus Stop on Litchfield Street, outside the bus interchange.
🏁
End Point
Drop off to central Franz Josef accommodations only
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Good to Know
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each
- Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
Known For:
Special Instructions
*You will receive an email with important pickup information in the days prior, please read this information.
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