Entries about trains

The TranzAlpine Express takes you from Christchurch to Greymouth (in the news recently for the mine collapse just north) via the Southern Alps and it required a silly o’clock wake up. It departed on time, first passing through the Canterbury Plains (very flat, as expected) on to the Southern Alps. There are a few stops on route but only one where you can get off for a few minutes, which we did to take a few piccies. We knew the famed Arthur’s Pass was to come though so were saving ourselves. However, I have to say, it’s a bit of a let-down! Sorry, Arthur. There are some fantastic views along the journey through the Alps but I suspect it’s more impressive with snow on the mountains. I don’t know if I was expecting too much or was hoping for it to equal the Rovos Rail journey in South Africa last year but the last 30 minutes were a bit boring. Nevertheless, it’s a trip worth taking - despite me not really selling it - and it stayed sunny all the way.