Family-Friendly Nature Rail Trip Loop from Christchurch

Day 1: Scenic Journey

Christchurch, New Zealand on August 29, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at C1 Espresso

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at C1 Espresso known for its unique pneumatic food delivery system.
Head to C1 Espresso located in the central city of Christchurch.
$20, 1 hour

10:00 AM

TranzAlpine Train Journey

Embark on the iconic TranzAlpine train journey from Christchurch to Greymouth, passing through stunning Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps.
Get to Christchurch Railway Station for your train departure.
$120, 5 hours

3:00 PM

Arrive in Greymouth

Explore the charming town of Greymouth, visit local shops, and enjoy a relaxing evening by the coast.
Get off at Greymouth Railway Station and check into your accommodation.
$0, Rest of the day
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Day 2: Nature Expedition

Tekapo, New Zealand on August 30, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Run 76 Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Run 76 Cafe overlooking Lake Tekapo.
Head to The Run 76 Cafe in Tekapo.
$25, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Lake Tekapo

Spend the day exploring the beauty of Lake Tekapo, visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, and take a scenic walk around the lake.
Drive to Lake Tekapo, approximately 1.5 hours from Greymouth.
$0, 4 hours

2:00 PM

Stargazing at Mt. John Observatory

Experience a magical stargazing tour at Mt. John Observatory and witness the stunning night sky of Tekapo.
Head to Mt. John Observatory for your stargazing tour.
$80, 2 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on August 31, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Vudu Cafe, known for its vibrant atmosphere and great coffee.
Visit Vudu Cafe in Queenstown.
$30, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Skyline Queenstown Gondola

Take a scenic ride on the Skyline Queenstown Gondola for panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.
Head to Skyline Queenstown Gondola for your gondola experience.
$50, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Explore Queenstown

Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant streets of Queenstown, shopping for souvenirs, or trying out local cuisine.
Explore the central areas of Queenstown on foot.
$0, 3 hours
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Day 4: Glacier Discovery

Franz Josef, New Zealand on September 1, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Full of Beans

Indulge in a satisfying breakfast at Full of Beans before your glacier adventures in Franz Josef.
Have breakfast at Full of Beans in Franz Josef.
$20, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

Embark on a thrilling heli-hiking experience on the Franz Josef Glacier, exploring ice caves and crevasses.
Head to the designated heli-hike meeting point in Franz Josef.
$400, 4 hours

3:00 PM

Relax at Glacier Hot Pools

Unwind at the Glacier Hot Pools after your glacier adventure, soaking in the rejuvenating hot water surrounded by nature.
Head to Glacier Hot Pools for a relaxing soak.
$40, 2 hours
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Day 5: Coastal Exploration

Greymouth, New Zealand on September 2, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Blackball Inn

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Blackball Inn before exploring the scenic coastal areas of Greymouth.
Have breakfast at The Blackball Inn in Greymouth.
$25, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

Visit the unique limestone formations of Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki and witness the blowholes in action.
Drive to Punakaiki, approximately 45 minutes from Greymouth.
$0, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Greymouth Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing at Greymouth Beach, enjoying the coastal breeze and the sound of the waves.
Head to Greymouth Beach for some leisure time.
$0, 2 hours
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Day 6: Journey Back to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on September 3, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Unknown Chapter

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Unknown Chapter before starting your journey back to Christchurch.
Have breakfast at Unknown Chapter in Greymouth.
$20, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Drive to Christchurch

Embark on the scenic drive back to Christchurch, enjoying the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand along the way.
Start your drive from Greymouth back to Christchurch.
$50, 5 hours

3:00 PM

Arrive in Christchurch

Conclude your memorable family-friendly rail/road trip by arriving back in Christchurch, where you can reflect on the wonderful experiences.
Reach your accommodation in Christchurch for a well-deserved rest.
$0, Rest of the day
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