One of the top ten railway journeys in the world, this is an absolutely magical experience. The train goes once a day from Christchurch on the west coast of the South Island to Greymouth on the east and back, traversing some of the most spectacular scenery from the Canterbury Plain near Christchurch to the Southern Alps, stopping at Arthur's Pass high up in the mountains.

An outside observation carriage in the centre of the train enhances the feeling of being closer to the contrasting scenery (fleece and gloves needed!). Allocated seats, checked-in luggage and lovely waffles make this an unmissable experience.

Return journey from Christchurch (early start) or one way from Greymouth (lunchtime departure). I did the latter as I started from Nelson, taking a six-hour bus journey to Greymouth along almost deserted roads and past amazing scenery including part of the Buller River used in The Fellowship of the Ring, and the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes.

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Christchurch has a certain line in unusual transportation/dining experiences that has to be unique. Not only can you eat while riding around town on an old tram, but you can also do so in a gondola. Okay, I exaggerate – the Summit Cafe where you dine is at the top of the gondola – but it’s close.

You can of course use the gondola to go up to the ridge of the Port Hills at any time during the day, and the views over the city, or down the other side to Lyttelton Harbour, are superb. And hiring a bike there to speed back down is a thrill, albeit a mild one by NZ standards. But getting up there just before dusk, in time to see the sun set across the plains and the city lights come on, well, it’s romantic enough to bring a tear to an All Black’s eye. And the food is worth staying for too.

Telephone: (63-3) 3840707
Location: Top of the Gondola.
Website: www.gondola.co.nz/dining

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

In a country where you can get overwhelmed with entreaties to do dangerous and high adrenaline activities at every turn, sometimes it’s nice to do something utterly quaint and old-fashioned.

Dining on good solid fare while the old Victorian tram makes its stately progress through the streets and parks of Christchurch is about as far from extreme as you can get, and all the better for it.

Telephone: (64-3) 3667511
Website: www.tram.co.nz
Email: enquiries@tram.co.nz

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends