An unforgettable trip
If you’re looking for an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s picturesque countryside, look no further than the TranzAlpine train’s Scenic Plus option as you travel from Christchurch to Greymouth.
This four-hour journey takes passengers through the stunning landscapes of the Canterbury Plains, the main divide, and the West Coast, all while providing unparalleled comfort and service.
The journey begins in Christchurch, where passengers hop aboard the Scenic Plus carriage and are greeted by friendly staff with hot towels and bubbles. As the train makes its way out of the city, the rolling meadows and grasslands of the Canterbury countryside unfold before you, setting the scene for the breathtaking journey ahead.
One of the highlights of the trip is the food on offer. The a la carte menu is a love letter to the surroundings, with 90 percent of the ingredients coming from New Zealand. The breakfast options are particularly mouth-watering, with dishes like agria hash with bacon and hollandaise or sweet pastries to whet your appetite.
As you journey deeper into the countryside, you’ll want to make your way to the viewing car to take in the stunning scenery. Despite the occasional rain, the views are nothing short of spectacular. The train weaves through valleys, over viaducts, and charges through tunnels, exposing often unseen wonders.
One of the most exciting moments of the journey is passing through the Otira Tunnel. Once the eighth longest rail tunnel in the world, this 8.7km tunnel is at a constant 1 in 33 gradient up from west to east. This is the steepest mainline gradient in New Zealand and was electrified when built.
The roughly 15-minute journey through the tunnel resets the senses, ready to take in the scenery as you emerge onto a 20th-century bridge directing you towards the history-laden West Coast.
It’s not just the scenery that makes this journey special, though. The infrastructure of yesteryear, like the Staircase Viaduct at Waimakariri Gorge, a 1906 bridge, adds to the charm and character of the journey. Along the way, the commentary shares the lore and legends of the areas, along with fascinating facts, interesting to even the hardiest of locals.
Once in Greymouth, passengers can stay on the West Coast and catch a return the next day, or come back the same day for a scenic day trip. The afternoon return leg has an exceptional dinner service. With a stronger focus on the best of the region, the dishes showcase native and iconic ingredients. The Horopito rubbed chicken with a Canterbury red wine jus and the Canterbury lamb are definite hits, as is the hearty Agria potato gnocchi. But it’s the desserts that steal the show, with options like the Caramelised Whittaker’s white chocolate cheesecake or the Canterbury Plains rhubarb and berry compote on a vegan coconut crème patisserie with an underappreciated but deserved accompaniment – Harroway’s oat crumb.
Beyond the mist veiled forests, tea brown swamps, and the mountains standing as conductors on the journey, the overall comfort of the trip is unmatched. The staff prioritise the customer experience, with concierges keeping passengers happy and contented, keeping their drinks topped up and their bellies full.
It’s no wonder this journey is lauded as one of the great rail trips of the world. Aotearoa’s unique history, both geological and human-made, has carved out a unique tapestry offered in its most dramatic aboard this train. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the trip is a comfortable and unforgettable way to experience the wonders of this big, beautiful back yard. So, hop aboard and get ready to be amazed!