What to See on the TranzAlpine Train: Highlights of New Zealand’s Most Scenic Rail Journey

What to See on the TranzAlpine Train: Highlights of New Zealand’s Most Scenic Rail Journey? Widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest scenic train journeys, the TranzAlpine takes travellers on a breathtaking ride between Christchurch on the east coast and Greymouth on the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Spanning 223 kilometres, the journey offers a stunning cross-section of natural beauty—from rolling farmland to towering alpine peaks and rugged river gorges.

Here’s what to look out for on this unforgettable rail experience.

1. Canterbury Plains – A Patchwork of Rural Beauty

As the TranzAlpine departs Christchurch, the first stretch takes you across the Canterbury Plains—a vast and fertile agricultural region known for its geometric farmland and big skies.

Why it’s worth seeing:

• Sweeping views of rural New Zealand landscapes
• Picture-perfect farmland dotted with sheep and cattle
• A peaceful introduction before ascending into the mountains

Best time to view: Early morning departures offer golden light across the plains.

2. Waimakariri River – Braided Blue Beauty

The train soon begins to follow the Waimakariri River, a distinctive braided river with glacial origins. From the large panoramic windows or open-air viewing carriage, you’ll get stunning views of its interweaving channels.

Why it’s worth seeing:

• Unique geology and striking turquoise colour
• Excellent photo opportunities from the viewing platform
• Often framed by snow-capped peaks in the distance

🔗 Related: Guide to the Best Scenic Spots on the TranzAlpine

3. Southern Alps – Towering Peaks and Alpine Landscapes

One of the most dramatic portions of the journey is the climb into the Southern Alps, New Zealand’s highest mountain range. Here, the train winds through alpine terrain, offering panoramic views of dramatic ridges, beech forests, and high-country valleys.

Why it’s worth seeing:

• Some of the best alpine scenery in New Zealand
• Snow-dusted mountains in winter and wildflowers in summer
• Ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike

Notable spots: Look for peaks around the Craigieburn Range and Torlesse Range.

4. Arthur’s Pass – New Zealand’s Highest Railway Station

At the heart of the Southern Alps lies Arthur’s Pass National Park, a highlight of the TranzAlpine journey. The train makes a brief stop at Arthur’s Pass Station, which sits at 739 metres above sea level—the highest point on the route.

Why it’s worth seeing:

• Towering peaks, waterfalls, and dramatic gorges
• A key gateway for hiking, alpine tours, and wildlife encounters
• Look out for kea, New Zealand’s curious alpine parrots

5. Otira Tunnel – An Engineering Marvel

Just past Arthur’s Pass, the train enters the Otira Tunnel, one of the longest railway tunnels in the Southern Hemisphere at 8.5 kilometres. Built in the early 1900s, it is a major engineering achievement that allowed access to the West Coast.

Why it’s worth seeing:

• Fascinating piece of New Zealand rail history
• Unique experience as the train transitions beneath the Southern Alps
• Emerging on the western side offers a stark contrast in scenery

6. West Coast Rainforest – Lush and Rugged Wilderness

After the tunnel, the scenery transforms dramatically. The dry eastern landscapes give way to lush, dense West Coast rainforest, where ferns, moss, and native trees dominate the landscape.

Why it’s worth seeing:

• Incredible change in climate and vegetation in under an hour
• Towering podocarp forests and mist-covered slopes
• A paradise for fans of temperate rainforests and geology

7. Lake Brunner – A Hidden Gem

As the train approaches Greymouth, it skirts the northern edge of Lake Brunner, a serene body of water popular for trout fishing and kayaking. It’s a tranquil way to wind down the journey.

Why it’s worth seeing:

• Glassy reflections and peaceful scenery
• Lesser-known but incredibly photogenic
• Opportunity for post-train adventures or overnight stays

8. Greymouth – Gateway to the West Coast

The journey ends in Greymouth, a historic town with links to gold mining and greenstone carving. It’s also the jumping-off point for onward travel to Franz Josef Glacier, Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, or a return journey on the TranzAlpine.

Why it’s worth seeing:

• Charming coastal town rich in local heritage
• Access to some of the South Island’s most iconic natural wonders
• Options to extend your adventure on the West Coast

🔗 Related: Top Things to Do in Greymouth After the TranzAlpine

Planning Tips for Your TranzAlpine Journey

• Best seats: Choose the left side for the best views heading west, and right side for the return to Christchurch.
• Best time to travel: The journey is stunning year-round, but spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and rich seasonal colours.
• What to bring: Camera, layered clothing, and a window-cleaning cloth for clearer photos from your seat.

Book Your TranzAlpine Experience Today

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to New Zealand or a returning adventurer, the TranzAlpine train journey offers one of the most memorable and photogenic ways to explore the South Island. From soaring alpine peaks to rainforest-covered valleys, it’s a bucket-list rail adventure for nature lovers and scenic travellers alike.

Start planning your TranzAlpine rail holiday today and discover the beauty of New Zealand by train.