TRANZALPINE RAIL TO ARTHURS PASS:

 TRANZALPINE RAIL TO ARTHURS PASS:

 

 

The TranzAlpine train operates between Christchurch, Arthurs Pass and Greymouth - from the east coast to the west coast of New Zealand's South Island. Our Journey was only to Arthurs Pass.

 

 
Traveling west crossing the Canterbury Plains, the train slowly ascends through scenic  gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River towards the Southern Alps to the alpine village of Arthurs Pass. 

 
We were met by our bus at Arthurs Pass and drove to Greymouth. This was a very scenic ride even though it was raining and the cloud ceiling was low. I still enjoyed seeing the lush rainforest, river and an occasional waterfall. It would have taken forever if we made a stop at any of them. If we ever do a return trip this will be a slow drive for sure.

 

 

 

In the town of Greymouth, we stopped at Monteith’s Brewing Company for lunch. They put out a very nice buffet of pub fare. I had their ginger beer and it was very good. 

 

 
Our next stop was at Hokitika. This is self described as a cool little town. Known for its drift wood,  gold, and Pounamu. Pounamu is also known as green stone or jade. It is carved into Maori symbols, each with a special meaning. I should also add there are also shops selling possum and wool items. 

 



From Hokitika we had a two hour drive to our lodging for the next two days. 

Here at the Te Waonui Forest Retreat, one finds themselves in the midst of a rain forest. Our balcony has a rain forest view. 

 

 

Tomorrow we will have time to explore the grounds for bird life.