Today we journey to the West Coast of New Zealand, one of the more remote and most
sparsely populated areas of the country. We transfer you from your Christchurch accommodation to the Christchurch train station, for a journey on the TranzAlpine Train to Arthur's Pass Village. Truly one of the world's great scenic train trips, through the dramatic contrast of dry beech forests and tussock land on one side of the Alps, and lush green landscapes on the other. From Christchurch, cross the patchwork farmland of the Canterbury plains, follow the Waimakariri river, climbing into alpine scenery on a series of spectacular viaducts, with views of snow capped mountains. You alight the train at Arthur's Pass Village, where your driver will meet you, and then drive you through the mountain pass, with views of the rugged Southern Alps. You then descend through the Otira Gorge, into sub tropical rain forest, and on to Hokitika, in time for lunch.
You will have time to explore the coastal town of Hokitika, the beach, the jade jewellery factory, the glass blowing factory, and arts & crafts shops.
We carry on down the coast, through the majestic rainforest, to Franz Josef/Fox Glacier township, arriving there late afternoon. The Franz Josef/Fox Glaciers descend from the Southern Alps, amidst the greenery and lushness of a temperate rainforest. You will have time to walk up the valley, and view the glacier. You will also have time to take a helicopter flight up to the glacier, with a snow landing. You will be captivated as you lift off and fly up and over the glacier and experience the solitude of a landing in this natural alpine wonderland.
It is a 30 minute drive from Franz Josef village to Fox Glacier village. Each village has its own glacier. Depending on your preference, you can stay overnight at either village.
Overnight - Franz Josef village or Fox Glacier village (your choice).
Included - Tranz Alpine Train (Christchurch to Arthurs Pass)
Optional Activities: view the glacier on foot, Helicopter flight with snow landing; hot pools at Franz Josef, walk around Lake Matheson (near Fox Glacier village), or a glacier hike, where you actually walk on the glacier (2 night stay required). More...http://www.nzimpressions.com
Today we journey to the West Coast of New Zealand, one of the more remote and most 
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