Arthur's Pass National Park Tours
This superbly scenic national park is in Central Canterbury, rising out of the plains. A magnet for wintertime skiers and summertime hikers, Arthur’s Pass National Park is also a popular day trip from Christchurch.
Easy day walks fan out from the visitor information center, leading to vantage points affording panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Providing an instant snapshot of New Zealand's legendary natural beauty, a day trip to the park also reveals glimpses of extensive beech forests, rainforest, mountain passes and soaring peaks.
If you're planning on experiencing a bit of New Zealand 'tramping' (the NZ word for hiking) take note that this is tricky territory, and for experienced hikers only. Tracks are not continuously marked, and they can involve river crossings, plus the weather is notoriously changeable.
Practical Info
Arthur's Pass National Park is on New Zealand's South Island, two hours northwest of Christchurch.
The town of Arthur's Pass is on the main bus route between Christchurch and Greymouth; the scenic TranzAlpine train also comes through here daily. If you’re driving from Christchurch, take Highway 73.
2 Tours & Activities to Experience
Arthur's Pass National Park with TranzAlpine Train Tour from Christchurch
- Travel by TranzAlpine railway to Arthur's Pass National Park, riding across the Canterbury Plains, then winding through Waimakariri Gorge and into the heart of the Southern Alps on this day trip from Christchurch. An informative guide takes you on a minivan tour of Arthur's Pass, including short rainforest walks past rivers to mountain vistas at Castle Hill. Enjoy a hotel lunch and light refreshments before the return trip via Waimak Gorge. Small-group tour is limited to eight participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
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Private Tour: 8-Day South Island Tour from Christchurch Including Franz Josef, Wanaka and Queenstown
- Visit multiple South Island highlights on this unforgettable 8-day private tour, round-trip from Christchurch. Make the journey from ‘The Garden City’ in a counter-clockwise direction, traveling with ease in your very own luxury vehicle with a private guide at the helm. The route covers Arthur’s Pass, west coast rainforests, Aoraki/Mount Cook and Queenstown, to name a few. Enjoy seven nights’ accommodation including breakfast, entry to the Franz Josef Glacier hot pools and a train ride on the TranzAlpine. Optional activities include helicopter rides and bungy jumps (own expense).
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