Jackrabbit Travel Blog - Bouncing Back & Forth - First Entry

June 1: Christchurch to Greymouth

We blogged earlier about our return to Christchurch from Akaroa and purchasing three beautiful Maori art prints. We have since learned that prints are not a common art form for Maori artists and so feel very lucky to have found these works. We are looking forward to framing and displaying them when we get home.

We also blogged about the pending early morning train departure so let's continue the journey there...

6 a.m. came quickly...too quickly! Our morning ritual of tea dulled the pain of rising before the sun, and we were soon standing in the cold blustery dawn waiting for our shuttle to the train station. We boarded the TranzAlpine, settled into our appointed seats and were soon underway down the track headed for Greymouth on the west coast. It wasn't long before rain turned to snow and winter became increasingly more pronounced as the train climbed upwards towards Arthur's Pass. The winter scenes along the way even captivated this pair of Canadians!

First Sign of Snow - Canterbury Plains Just Outside Ch-ch

Bucky in Springfield - Didn't See the Simpsons!

Winter in the Southern Alps - Waimakariri Valley

River Crossing on the TranzAlpine - Waimakariri Valley

Southern Alps Looming in the Clouds

The train emptied quickly at its stop in the Pass. Riders of all ages marvelled at the snow and digital cards quickly filled with photos of grinning faces as teeth began to chatter. Many riders had never experienced snow before and it was entertaining watching their antics and expressions.

Arthur's Pass - Gateway to the West Coast

Snow Rookies - Arthur's Pass

Whistle Stop - Arthur's Pass

The Sun Arrives at Arthur's Pass

We re-boarded the train and soon were trundling down the western slope where grey skies and snow gave way to sunshine and greenery. I managed to find the perfect corner on a deck between rail cars to take in the sights, sunshine and fresh air, out of the cool wind, where I stayed for the remainder of the journey.

The Western Side - Leaving the Southern Alps

Otira River Valley

Taramakau River

Grey River Valley

Grey River Valley Nearing Journey's End

The TranzAlpine was a fascinating journey filled with incredible scenery, and one of the highlights of our time on the South Island. Many do it as a day trip with a short half hour stop-over in Greymouth before returning to Ch-ch. We dropped our bags at Noah's Ark Backpackers and returned to watch the train leave the station before we headed off for groceries.

written by  Shane & Norma on July 16, 2009 from Greymouth, New Zealand
from the travel blog: "Not Just Another Rugby Tour" - New Zealand, Samoa and Australia
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