Cheeky Kea Tours Christchurch Animal Encounter

Arguably the most stunning of New Zealand's Southern Alp passes, this tour will see you travel to Arthur's Pass National Park on the Great Alpine Highway. Highlights include an example of great engineering, spectacular waterfalls, famous filming locations, and ever-changing remarkable landscapes.
You will be driven in comfort in our modern Mercedes Sprinter or similar vehicle packed with extras, just to make your journey that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey will come to life in a new way for you.
The day will begin with a collection from your chosen accommodation before we hit the road towards Arthur’s Pass. Our friendly guide will point out those stunning views along the way. While on this tour with us, you will encounter everything from green fields and rugged mountain ranges, to lush forest and ice-fed lakes and rivers!
There are plenty of stops along the route, so we won’t be spending all day in the van...although it is pretty comfy!
This package includes return to Christchurch aboard the TranzAlpine (Arthur's Pass to Christchurch):
"Weaving coast-to-coast through the stunning Southern Alps, the TranzAlpine journey is one of a kind. Ranked amongst the best train journeys in the world, the TranzAlpine route is truly stunning. Cutting through the mountainous spine of New Zealand's South Island, the railway weaves through cliff-lined river gorges, over high mountain plains, over braided rivers and around pristine mountain lakes."
Memories made, hearts happy and photos a plenty in this tour!
Highlights: Castle Hill Scenic lookouts Return to Christchurch aboard the TranzAlpine Arthur's Pass/Devils Punch Bowl Kea in the wild
Itinerary:
Christchurch - We start by leaving Christchurch and heading north towards our destination. It is here that our knowledgeable driver will point out some of the Garden City’s highlights.
Springfield/Alpine Jets - As we make our way through the Selwyn District, you will be greeted by the gorgeous little western town of Springfield where we make our turn off towards Alpine Jets. Here there are walks, views of the Waimakariri, and sheep cuddles to enjoy. For those looking for more adventure, you can add on a jet boat experience (extra booked and sold separately).
Lake Pearson/Lake Lyndon (10 min) - Lake Pearson is the largest of three mountain lakes in the area. This picturesque glacial lake is surrounded by the Southern Alps, and is a popular spot for swimmers, fishing and visitors. Lake Lyndon nestles at the base of Porters Pass. This is known as one of the colder lakes, but remains another very popular location for jetboaters, bird watchers and again brave swimmers.
Castle Hill (1 hour) - Once back in the van, we head towards Castle Hill. These weathered limestone rocks sit proudly on the tussocky hills and were once in the ocean! Over time they have eroded away, forming the amazing unique shapes you see today. You might recognize this landscape from movies such as Lord of the Rings and Narnia! Not only that, but while you walk amongst the rocks you might also catch a glimpse of climbers and boulderers! This place is a magnet for those types of hobbies. This is not a guided walk so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own.
Otira Gorge Lookout (15 min) - Also known as Death's Corner, the Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the National Park in all its glory. This bridge is the only reason driving through Arthur's Pass is possible! It’s huge at 440 metres long, and is a great spot for a photo of the bridge and the surrounding landscape. A little bonus too, you might see a wee Cheeky Kea! New Zealand's sneaky Alpine Parrot.
Arthur's Pass Village (1 hour) - We depart the lookout and head towards Arthur's Pass village. On the way you will be able to see the beautiful backdrop of the majestic Southern Alps up close. Once we arrive you will have the opportunity to either walk to Devils Punch Bowl or spend time walking around the local shops. Devils Punch Bowl - This walking track is approx. 1 hour with a gradual incline (including steps) towards a ferocious 131-meter-tall waterfall. Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and native beech
forest. Arthur's Pass village - Grab a bite to eat, a coffee and shop some local goodies! This village is a great way to really get to know the area.
Please note that depending on time, our driver will let you know how long you have and will assist you on the day in regard to departure time.
Arthur's Pass to Christchurch (TranzAlpine Scenic Train Ride) - After Arthur's Pass, we’ll drop you off at the TranzAlpine Train Station for a journey through the majestic Southern Alps. The open-carriage train ride offers stunning panoramic views of the Canterbury Plains as you head back towards Christchurch.
IMPORTANT: Please note that TranzAlpine bookings are managed by Great Journeys New Zealand, who cannot be held responsible for any missed connections due to delayed train arrivals. If you have onward travel plans (such as flights), please be aware that the service may experience delays of 30 minutes or more. We recommend allowing extra time to ensure you have ample time for any connections.
Christchurch – The tour concludes with your return to Christchurch. As your train arrives, we’ll be there to take you back to your accommodation, completing your scenic adventure with fantastic memories.
As this tour operates in an alpine region, the weather can be unpredictable. In the event of bad weather, this tour will continue on to Greymouth and Lake Brunner.


Inclusions: Small Group Carbon Neutral TranzAlpine train journey from Arthur's Pass to Christchurch Lunch Bottled Water Local Kiwi snacks Wi-Fi and USB charging Commentary from our expert guide 100% Kiwi as experience
Add o ns: Alpine Jet Boat experience
We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.


See More, Do More, Spend Less
** Please note that due to the timing of this tour, it is not suitable as a shore excursion.