Arthurs Pass Adventure

Experience overview

Set out on an enthralling expedition with our Arthur's Pass tour, starting from the scenic harbor of Lyttelton in New Zealand. We'll travel through Christchurch and across the Canterbury Plains to Springfield, at the foot of the stunning Southern Alps, then continue through Porter Pass into the spectacular Arthur's Pass National Park. Along the way, take in breathtaking high-country scenery, mountain peaks, lakes, and expansive landscapes. As you enter Arthur's Pass National Park, the road follows the famous TranzAlpine Railway into Arthur's Pass Village. From here, continue through dense native beech forest toward the summit of the pass before descending through the dramatic Otira Gorge. Stop at a scenic viewing platform overlooking the impressive Otira Viaduct, one of the region's remarkable engineering achievements. Keep an eye out for the kea, a native New Zealand parrot that is often seen in the area. Continue exploring the natural beauty of Arthur's Pass with a gentle walk through the native New Zealand beech forest, offering an opportunity to experience the peaceful surroundings and spectacular scenery of the national park. Enjoy time in Arthur's Pass Village for lunch at a local cafe, at your own expense. On the return journey, retrace the scenic route through the Southern Alps with a stop at Kura Tawhiti / Castle Hill Conservation Area. Here, you'll have time to explore and photograph the spectacular limestone rock formations set against the expansive high-country scenery. Rejuvenated by the breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty of Arthur's Pass National Park, continue back toward Lyttelton, taking in the dramatic mountain scenery, river valleys, and alpine landscapes along the way. Your tour concludes in Lyttelton township, where an awaiting shuttle will transfer you back to your cruise ship. This memorable journey showcases the spectacular natural beauty of New Zealand, from the Southern Alps and Arthur's Pass National Park to the dramatic Otira Gorge and remarkable limestone formations of Kura Tawhiti / Castle Hill.