New Zealand's most scenic rail journey | The TranzAlpine | Christchurch to Greymouth

The TranzAlpine is New Zealand's most famous train, crossing the Southern Alps from Christchurch to Greymouth on the West Coast. Find out whether the train lives up to its venerable reputation.
In this video, I'll show you what the Scenic Class carriages are like, check out the food and drink options from the onboard cafe and enjoy the views from the open-air viewing car. Of course, the scenery is the main act including a spectacular river gorge, towering viaducts, high mountain plains, braided rivers and pristine mountain lakes, en route to the West Coast.
The TranzAlpine is widely considered one of the world's great train journeys, covering 230 kilometres and taking just under 5 hours.
Starting in Christchurch, the journey crosses the expansive Canterbury Plains on the South Island Main Trunk line (SIMT). At Rolleston, the TranzAlpine turns north onto the Midland Line. Following an ancient Maori trail through the mountains that was later plotted by engineer Arthur Dobson, it is the Midland Line's passage through the Southern Alps that astounds the senses. The railway line between Springfield and Arthur's Pass is considered a masterpiece of railway engineering.
The Otira Tunnel marks the transition from Canterbury to West Coast. The weather is typically wetter on the west side - and the scenery is noticeably more vibrant. The views of Lake Brunner and the heritage station at Moana are not to be missed.
TranzAlpine timetable and fares:
www.greatjourneysnz.com/tours...
🚉 Train: The TranzAlpine
🚉 Operator: Great Journeys of New Zealand (parent company: KiwiRail)
🚉 Locomotive: New Zealand DX class (DXC 5195 and DXC 5454)
🚉 Seat: Car B, Seat 6D (window)
🚉 Route: Christchurch - Arthur's Pass - Greymouth (Midland Line)
🚉 Distance: 230km
🚉 Travel time: 4 hours 50 minutes (scheduled)
🚉 Class: Scenic Class
🚉 Travel date: 6 November 2022
EQUIPMENT:
🚉 Cameras: GoPro Hero 10, GoPro Hero 8, iPhone 12 Pro Max, Panasonic HC-VX1
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and overview
01:09 - Christchurch Railway Station and check in
02:33 - Boarding and seat review
04:19 - Departing Christchurch and train composition
05:14 - Route overview
06:13 - Cafe and breakfast
07:48 - Crew announcement and Waimakariri River gorge
09:32 - Patterson’s Creek Viaduct
11:02 - Staircase and Broken River viaducts
12:53 - Slovens Stream Viaduct and Mount Binser
13:48 - Open air viewing car and Lake Sarah
16:44 - Waimakariri River Rail Bridge
17:33 - Cora Lynn and mountain views
19:45 - Arthur’s Pass
21:13 - Otira Tunnel and toilet tour
23:28 - Otira
25:16 - Taramakau River and Lake Poerua
27:22 - Lake Brunner and Moana
30:30 - Lunch
32:13 - Stillwater and Brunner Mine historic area
34:00 - Fares and schedule
36:28 - Arriving in Greymouth
38:44 - Final thoughts and video preview
Music
I use Artlist for high quality, licensed audio. If you sign up using my referral link below, you will get two extra months for free.
artlist.io/Adam-3542584
Credits and sources:
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TranzAl...
www.greatjourneysnz.com/route...
www.seat61.com/tranzalpine-tr...
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midland...
www.engineeringnz.org/program...
www.engineeringnz.org/program...
www.arcgis.com/apps/View/inde...
Video attributions:
The Great Journeys of New Zealand
Photo attributions:
Assorted including thumbnail: The Great Journeys of New Zealand
Waimakariri River Bridge / Stair Case Viaduct
By Zureks
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Tr...
Moana Railway Station photos
Photo by itravelNZ®
www.flickr.com/photos/6504104...
commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi...
By Tomiĉo via Wikimedia Commons
Wildman NZ
commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi...
Map of Waimakariri River
commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi...
By Grutness
The Waimakariri River with the Southern Alps in the background, Canterbury, New Zealand.
Photograph by Greg O'Beirne
commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi...
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#kiwirail #greatrailjourneys #trainreview #greatjourneysnz

[@AndrewSatellite27]

Fun fact Adam, rail in New Zealand started with the Broad Gauge back when it was first introduced. However, it was later standardised to 1067mm Narrow Gauge to cater for the tight mountainous terrain such as the Alpine you traversed. 1067mm was deemed narrow enough for the terrain while large enough for the bigger sized rolling stock.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Hi Andrew. I didn’t know that - very interesting. Makes sense that they changed to narrow gauge given the terrain, as you say. Thanks!

[@bramantyoprahoro7284]

Almost similar case in Indonesia. Some used 1,435mm in certain route, even less than 1,000mm in Aceh region of Indonesia. Most of them are 1,067mm in Java and Sumatra.

[@kiddobeans4970]

Adam you are a good and informative tour guide.

[@nigeljohnson8995]

What a beautiful country. Really enjoyed seeing a bit of New Zealand. I would have bought a real NZ meat pie and a bit of NZ wine for lunch. Great adventure.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Yes, it’s stunning! I was able to try many types of Kiwi pies and wines on my trip … so don’t worry, I didn’t miss out. 😜

[@Diwondermum]

Awesome video!! You really have the knack of guiding! Really enjoyable trip! Prices in snack bar not too bad either. Thankyou!

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks so much - lovely to hear that. ☺️

[@KiwiRailSpotter]

Great Video! You've done an awesome job reviewing New Zealands scenic trains!

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks so much! So good to hear that. 😊

[@mce_AU]

Nice comprehensive coverage. Scenery looks fantastic.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! 🙏

[@PaulStewartAviation]

Stunning views Adam. Great video!

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks Paul! Maybe you can sneak in a trip on one of your visits to NZ. 😉

[@DimaManuel]

Mate hats off for a fenomenal series on NZ trains! Absolutely loved all 4 vids. I'll be moving here in September and definitely will try out that northern explorer! 🙏👏👏👏

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks so much! Lucky you … enjoy the incredible scenery!

[@angelicasmodel]

Thank you for your info packed video. I loved taking this trip. The scenery was spectacular. I spent most of the time in the outdoor carriage, so I didn't get to hear the commentary. I appreciated your comments to give me the titbits I missed out when I was there.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

That’s wonderful to hear - thank you!

[@sarbaazchabahar]

This is great. I always enjoy watching your videos. Please keep them coming. Cheers🍺✌️🍻

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks, will do! 🙏

[@andrewhighriser9531]

That was a wonderful journey Adam. It was on my bucket list but I am now of an age where I am emptying my bucket list by tipping it out and the classic New Zealand rail journeys have been tipped out. I've so enjoyed your trips. Mind, in 2019 we did take the tourist train from Dunedin to Taieri Gorge. That was a good trip, made extra special by the staff.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Wonderful to hear - thank you! Very keen to visit Dunedin one day too.

[@fridaytax]

That trip is beautiful! Highly recommend

[@travelthetropics6190]

Thanks a lot mate, never knew about this. Hope to do this trail in future

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

No worries. You definitely should. 😊

[@allenzhang9900]

feel pretty long time already since your last video, looks so amazing.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank so much! Yes, it takes me a long time to edit each video, so there’s always a bit of a gap. 🤓

[@Erika-el1kp]

Hi Adam, I only have one word after watching your video, and that is WOW!! The scenery is just beautiful. I'm looking forward to your review of the Kuranda railway. I've been on the train twice and absolutely loved it. Regards Erika from sunny Perth 😎

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Hi Erika. It really is 😍 - thank you! Hope my Kuranda Scenic Railway video lives up to your memories. ☺️

[@Erika-el1kp]

@FromtheWindowSeat Hi Adam, I'm sure your video will be fantastic. BTW, we really enjoyed Adelaide and Alice Springs. Originally, we were going to travel on the Ghan, but after your review, we plan to travel on the Indian Pacific instead. Regards Erika from sunny Perth 😎

[@bryanarchibald2856]

Looks amazing, one day would love to get there

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

I definitely recommend it. 👌

[@AussieJetSetter]

Another spectacular coverage of NZ trains Adam. So well produced and researched! The TranzAlpine certainly sounds like the journey for me to do next time in New Zealand!

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! Yes, well worth doing.

[@dmstevens87]

I really enjoy your videos mate thanks for sharing these :)

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Glad you like them!

[@iangarbutt7451]

Happy Memories of October 2000!! The Trans Alpine was my first part of my 7 day Southern Highlights Tour!! 😃🚅😃

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Oh cool. Certainly is a beautiful place!

[@iangarbutt7451]

@FromtheWindowSeat Thanks so much for your great message!! Before boarding the Trans Alpine I came down on the Trans Coastal from Blenheim!!!..On my highlights tour our coach broke down... we just made it back up the Homer Tunnel from Milford Sound!! ✨️

[@tprashaant]

Wow.... Amazing , captivating and mesmerizing. A very well documented Travelogue🥺🥺. Hat's off !!!

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you very much! 🙏

[@chrismckellar9350]

I will be travelling on the TranzAlpine train from Greymouth to Christchurch travelling Scenic Plus, hopefully in the new Scenic Plus carriage October this year. Greymouth railway station has 'scenic' coach services south to Hokitika, Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier onto Queenstown and north to Punakaiki Rocks, Westport and Nelson. Another historic fact about Otira, it was a stabling depot for electric locomotives to haul trains through the Otira Tunnel to Arthur's Pass. Arthur's Pass was the major servicing depot and power station for the electric locomotives.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Scenic Plus should be a great experience Chris. That’s good to know about the coach connections. Yes, interesting that the Otira Tunnel used to be electrified. Pity in a way they didn’t keep that … would have been something different. Cheers!

[@chrismckellar9350]

@@FromtheWindowSeat - Like everything in New Zealand, everything is done in the 'here and now' and no long term thinking and planning :( The new Scenic Plus carriage with its new AKF 'Kitchen' carriage should be ready for the TranzAlpine 2023/24 Summer season. The Coastal Pacific train is planned to have a Scenic Plus carriage and associated AKF 'Kitchen' carriage but introduction dates for this service hasn't been finalised. A third AKF 'Kitchen' carriage is being built for the Northern Explorer but there will be no dedicated Scenic Plus Carriage. Kiwirail is looking at a hybrid 'Scenic Plus' experience using a standard AK passenger carriage for those passengers who want an enhance catering experience. I should have the latest about this at the end of this month - June 2023.

[@roger0929]

@@chrismckellar9350 Will the Scenic Plus carriage be "1st class" i.e. 2+1 seating with real tables at every seat? What kind of premium does KiwiRail think it would get on the Northern Explorer without upgraded seating? Seems a bit backwards to me. Usually premium classes are marketed on the upgraded hard product and the soft product (catering) is considered a bonus.

[@chrismckellar9350]

@@roger0929 - I have seen interior photos of the new Scenic Plus carriage and you are correct it is in 2 + 1 seating configuration with larger tables. The single seats face each other. The Scenic Plus Carriages will be used on the two South Island trains starting with the TranzAlpine followed by the Coastal Pacific from September 2023. There is currently no plans to have a Scenic Plus carriage on the Northern Explorer due to lack of carriage maintenance facility in the North Island for the Scenic Plus carriage. That said, a kitchen carriage has been built for the Northern Explorer and I suspect an additional 'Scenic' Carriage with 2+2 seating will be added to the current Northern Explorer consist offering a 'Scenic Plus' dining service only as oppose to a full Scenic Plus experience that will be available on the South Island trains.

[@LyfovRyan51]

I enjoyed the video. Great presentation and the route map is added bonus. The scenery is outstanding. Must travel this soon as.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks so much! 🙏

[@PS-Straya_M8]

Your narration and video editing is outstanding, makes me want to travel 😁 PS would love a review of Scenic Plus please

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

That’s brilliant to hear - thank you. 🙏 Keen to try Scenic Plus … so will certainly look into it.

[@leonwakefield7285]

Hi Adam, another spectacular video of NZ.Gotta say that your videography gets better and better. Very much enjoyed this one.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Hi Leon. Thank you - lovely to hear! 😊

[@tomdagan6361]

Love your NZ Video's, I will be doing this trip in 2024 Regards Tom

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Awesome to hear Tom. I’m sure you’ll love it too!

[@mrmullett1067]

Thanks Adam, I thought the pie comment was correct. Kiwis do make good pies, but you can't (& shouldn't) microwave a good pie. Given that the local bakery can deliver a hot pie from a pie warmer, I find it very uncool to not have that simple kitchen process on board a tourist cafe car. It's not as if they store them frozen .. or do they ?? Nice job on the video sequencing and information about the history of the rail line. Lots of stuff I didn't know. Cheers.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Yes, a pie warmer would do the job. I think they’re just kept refrigerated on the train. 🤔 Thanks so much … always good to hear that feedback. 😊

[@rickyrickstan563]

Always love seeing the kiwi rail locos

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Yes, they’re pretty cool.

[@nickalliker6219]

Another stunning video Adam, with such great scenery; another trip to go on the bucket list. Keep up the good work 👍

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks so much Nick! You won’t regret taking this train. 👌

[@riverAmazonNZ]

I just love the stark beauty of the southern alps

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Yes, they’re stunning.

[@wayneeschbank2895]

Great video Adam I have done this trip twice and enjoyed every moment of it as things keep changing with the weather and seasons Also a great road trip back to Christchurch

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks so much Wayne. Definitely keen to do it again but in winter. Cheers!

[@russellwebb4805]

Great video. Very well done. Your videos have made me place several of the journeys you've done on my 'Bucket List'.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

That’s wonderful to hear! Thank you! Hope you make it to NZ and enjoy it as much as I did. ☺️

[@harrington2488]

Added your channel last week. Enjoying it a lot. Especially like the data you use such as maps, elevations, distances, and especially comparison of costs between standard and upgraded fares. Thank you and best wishes from Amarillo, TX USA !

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Happy to hear that. Thank you!

[@nzmu01]

Planning to take this adventure late 2024 and would love you to review the scenic plus! Fabulous and informative as are all your videos... eagerly waiting for the next!🤩

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you so much! I’d be keen to try Scenic Plus … so will see what I can do. 😊

[@Ollie1979]

At 24:00 you have a wonder view of 4 railway cottages. They are kit set builds made at the railway factory in Frankton, Hamilton. Another great review and informative video. I hope you do one on the Taieri gorge railway from Dunedin. 39:01

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Good to know - thank you! Yes, I’m hoping to visit Dunedin at some point. 🤞🏽

[@magesnz]

It would be a great idea to do a review of the scenic plus class on this train and maybe a second café car would be a great idea

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

I’ll see what I can do. 😉 I believe they sometimes have two cafe cars depending on overall passenger numbers. 🤓

[@holgerjrgensen2166]

Just before Christmas 87, I did the tour from Greymouth to Christchurch, been on trains on all continents, all kinds of nature sceneri, but always remember this as the most spectacular. There were only few wagons, and a balcony at the back.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Sounds great!

[@RF_ABD_30259]

Wonderful compilation Mr Adam. Loved it throughout! ❤ Love from India. 😊

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks so much! Great to hear. 😊

[@daniel-6449]

Thanks for another well put together and researched video, ive done the Transalpine and Coastal pacific several times my self i agree with you about the Coastal Pacific i never tire of it having traveled on more than a dozen times.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks so much Daniel. Definitely keen to take the Coastal Pacific again. 😍

[@exploreearth6275]

The TranzAlpine is really nice, we can see wonderful sceneries along the way

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Agreed!

[@amtrakharry]

That was a great ride Adam... you have made me rethink my trip now as I have had to reschedule it due to unforeseen issues. Now you have made me rethink my trip to take the Inter islander Ferry, Coastal Pacific, and Tranz-Alpine train/ferry... :):):) Thank you Adam...:):):)

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! You won’t regret that itinerary… enjoy! 😊

[@cacti8644]

The best way of travelling........railway.❤❤❤❤👍👍👌

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Agreed! ♥️

[@ck7642]

Wow what an informative video...and enjoyable...mahalo!!!

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

That’s great to hear. Mahalo! 😊

[@DXR8007NZR]

Fun Fact, DXC 5454 was the second EFI equipped DXC. EFI meaning (Electronic Fuel Injection.) The first EFI equippped DXC was 5212. Great video.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Good to know. Thanks!

[@theresefreeland3762]

I love your videos. There is so much scenery and wonderful sights.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Great to hear that. Thank you!

[@glendafaber1245]

I loved this trip when I did it. I did the return trip and it rained in Greymouth. I was disappointed there wasn't a lot of snow but I think it was better without snow as you could see all the texture and colours of landslides along the way. Of course there was snow on the mountain tops. It was FREEZING on the outside viewing car. I might do it again one day.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Sounds like a great trip!

[@shanedigby]

Awesome video sir. Would love to see a review of scenic plus at some stage. I know as well as better food, there is a separate viewing car too.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! Yes, that’s a great bonus. 🤔

[@Theincredibledrummer]

Another great video. I am glad to see you enjoyed yourself so much over here in Aotearoa. If you had to pick one of the train journeys to take, which would you pick?

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! I’d chose the Coastal Pacific … it’s just the right length and I love the ocean views combined with mountains and rolling vineyards. 👌

[@stephenwride5695]

New Zealand

[@Sunjoy1]

Stunning.. TY for sharing your adventures

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

My pleasure!

[@terryosullivan2620]

Great video Adam it takes me back to june 2000 when i went the other way Greymouth to Christmas. A truely great rail trip ,up their wirh the best of them

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! Sounds great.

[@rebeccaw9656]

Very much enjoying your video production quality. You’re providing a great resource, as well as entertainment. It helps that since watching a couple of your video’s, KZbin keeps presenting your extensive back-library… which I’m finding far more entertaining than most on my feed😊

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

That’s wonderful to hear - thank you! ☺️

[@WantYaLovin]

Looks like an amazing rail trip ! Thank you for covering this one!

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ralphsmith1170]

That looks like a fantastic journey!

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

It really is!

[@erniepenny221]

Brilliant. FYI, NZ countdown supermarkets to be rebranded to Woolworths by next year.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! 🙏 Oh wow - I didn’t know that. 🤔

[@oswaldboelcke5470]

Your train ride videos are awesome. They are so much fun to watch and very informative. Thank you so much. The effort you put in and how you inform us is very much appreciated.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

So good to hear that. Thank you! 😊

[@railbuddy8372]

A dream rail journey....very nice vdo friend...gr8 footages...big like...greetings from india

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Yes, it’s certainly beautiful. Thank you! ☺️

[@anjummirza1452]

Excellent. New Zealand is truly a very beautiful country and people. I liked the music playing along the way...

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

It certainly is. Glad you enjoyed the music too.

[@virtualjourneysnz]

Good overview on the TranzAlpine, well done!

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you!

[@bryanbadger6841]

Hi Adam. I've just discovered your channel. So I see a bit of binge watching is in order. If I was to critique it, you have missed the money shot. The Trans Alpine has to be done in winter. The operative word being "Alpine." With plenty of snow, it makes for great photography. The other Alpine trip that was available, was the Mainland Steam Excursion which goes as far as Arthur's Pass. I've done the steam trip twice. One of the highlights is that they drop photographers off on the other side of the viaduct, then back up again, build up a head of steam and come chugging back. Awesome as video. Of the two, I prefer the Steam Excursion in winter. It all depends on what your subscribers want. But definitely come back midwinter, for the snow. Great photography then. Thank you for sharing.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks for your detailed advice! Yes, I’d love to do this trip in winter. As this was my first trip to NZ, it was planned around hiking and being able to enjoy the rest of the country with a mild climate, hence the timing. 😁

[@rajaramank3290]

Wow...wonderful

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@EudaemoniusMarkII]

I really enjoy your narration style.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Really happy to hear that - thank you!

[@iankendrick5282]

always great vlogs very good thanks need more

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! 😊

[@aussiejohn5835]

Hi Adam, this is another of your amazing travel videos. I really enjoy your wonderful and informative narration as well as your spectacular videography. The last shot of the mountains and glacier is absolutely breathtaking and I wonder if it is a teaser for your next presentation?

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks so much John. Really appreciate the feedback. Unfortunately when I went helihiking at Fox Glacier, I didn’t have making a video in mind so I don’t think I have enough footage for a video. But if I ever return, it’s a good idea.

[@aussiejohn5835]

@From the Window Seat You're very welcome, Adam 👍I am quite content to watch any presentation of yours. How about a slide show of it 🤔 do you have enough shots for that 🤔

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

@@aussiejohn5835 Possibly. Will have to double check.

[@teddythewonderlizard1448]

To the best of my knowledge, no one has done a decent end to end review of The Savannahlander. That needs to go on your 'To Do' list.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Noted. Cheers!

[@ph89787]

38:35. Went up fox glacier when i was a kid as well.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Nice!

[@ph89787]

@@FromtheWindowSeat Although thanks to climate change. I remember it being a lot bigger.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

@@ph89787 yes, that’s depressing. 😞

[@richardcaldwell9160]

Excellent video & very informative. I also note your love of checked shirts has not waned

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! Ha! I have a whole wardrobe of check. 😝

[@genesiscarlos437]

Cada lugar mais bonito que o outro no percurso que faz as locomotivas da Kiwi Rail na nova Zelândia parabéns pelo vídeo

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Yes, so beautiful! 😍

[@dianaholvik2554]

Great video. I was born in NZ, moving away with family in mid 1960s at about age 12. I lived in North Island and was never very familiar with South Island, though my mother told me we visited as far south as Dunedin when I was small (I had and still have, dozens, hundreds, of relatives all over NZ). So I really enjoyed this view of my old homeland. I love the old Greymouth railway station. I also thought it could have been funny if you kept using the term loco for locomotive when you referred to the locomotive staff. (loco staff, which here in Canada would mean crazy staff). 😄Thanks for sharing this. BTW, I like the music you put here and there in your videos.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you so much. And for sharing your story. Glad my video could give you a taste of home. 😊

[@tonymckeage1028]

Great Video, this route was important to me when i lived in canterbury and my wifes sister lived in greymouth, i would love to do the train trip. thanks for sharing

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you. Yes, that would be a lovely way to visit her. ☺️

[@JoJo-cs7be]

I think the TranzAlpine train excursion you took was spectacular. I really enjoyed the alps and Viaducts. Please consider riding it again in the future with Scenic plus booking. Is this also a sleeper train? Love this video! ❤👍👍📣

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Great to hear that. I am keen to try Scenic Plus … so stay tuned. 🤞🏽

[@legendarymothasthomastengt6861]

Beautiful

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Cheers!

[@enischial965]

Lovely video as always, Adam. The scenery in New Zealand is just spectacular. I think tourist trains such as this would do quite well in the United States. Just thinking of New England (the region where I live), we have mountains, vineyards, sea coast. It's quite beautiful. Though in my opinion no country can be as beautiful as New Zealand. I would be interested to learn about some of your other adventures you had down there. Knowing you, wineries were certainly involved in the itinerary.

[@JoJo-cs7be]

I agree about the winery. A day trip to a scenic New Zealand winery would be idyllic. Please go, Adam.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks so much. Great to hear that. Yes, New Zealand is stunningly beautiful. 😍 I visited a few wine regions in NZ. A couple of highlights were a day trip by ferry to Waiheke Island, which is close to Auckland. Beautiful island with warm weather and rolling vineyards. Another highlight was a self-guided bike tour in the Marlborough wine region, from Renwick. Again, a perfect day to cycle between cellar doors. I also did a full day guided tour of the Central Otago wine region from Queenstown. I didn’t capture footage from those trips because that would really be for a different channel than this one. Cheers! 🤔 🍷

[@roger0929]

Umm... all of Amtrak's routes outside of the Northeast Corridor? Plus the numerous tourist/scenic trains all over the country. Amtrak has at least 7 routes that travel through upstate New York and New England plus another 12 tourist/scenic railroads in the region. The only state I can think of that doesn't have a least one scenic train route would be Hawaii.

[@legendarymothasthomastengt6861]

Amazing

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@festamix8]

You have accent so pure! Great channel!!! 🙏

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Why, thank you! 🙏 ☺️

[@festamix8]

@@FromtheWindowSeat i can understand so good!

[@andriystehnovych810]

Great informative video. Beautiful views but also a lot of information about rivers, tunnels, mines, vegetation, etc. Thank you. Greetings from Galicia (Ukraine).

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Wonderful to hear that - thank you! Greetings from Australia. Sending best wishes to you.

[@andriystehnovych810]

@@FromtheWindowSeat thank you very much!

[@railwaymechanicalengineer4587]

A BRITISH RAILWAYS MECHANICAL ENGINEERS VISIT TO NZ - 1986. As a Guest of the then NZGR in 1986, I was able to make a trip over the Lyttelton Harbour to Greymouth route in the cabs of various locos hauling freight trains. The only "passenger" train at the time was one operated for miners daily. But what stunned me was the incredible views and rampant "weathering" processes clearly visible at numerous locations, of which I have many photos. So on my return to Wellington, I had a talk with the then Managing Director, and strongly urged him to consider running a "tourist train" over this route using coaching stock which should include roof windows to increase interior lighting & viewing !!! So it's nice to see some film of the train I suggested in 1986. Which appears to to be just what I envisaged, and seems to be operating successfully for the benefit of not just tourists, but the current rail operator.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Oh wow. That’s impressive!

[@railwaymechanicalengineer4587]

@@FromtheWindowSeat I see you also have a piece on the Cairns to Kuranda line, which I also visited on my way back to Britain. So I'll leave you another post on that page.

[@daily5dose]

Beautiful video

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@johnmullin1188]

Nice 1 our kid great video John 😊

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! ☺️

[@frednerk5959]

Top Job👍

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks!

[@stevekinney7423]

Superb video of a spectacular rail adventure. Personally, I'd prefer if there wasn't a background music, just the sound of the train. Just a tht.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thank you! Yes, music is subjective. On average, I get more comments from people who like the music than who dislike it but it’s personal, as you say. The other challenge with using the recorded audio is that some of it is unpleasant (the outdoor viewing car is a lot of wind sound and on a recent trip there was more than an hour of a screaming child 🙉). 🤔

[@stevekinney7423]

Fair comment. And you are 100% right music is infinitely better than wind noise, etc, or a screaming child. Looking fwd to viewing your other videos. Cheers

[@heathertruskinger6214]

Hi Adam. What a great scenic route. Do you know if there is accessable seating ? I am imagining it might be in the higher class carriage, as I couldn't see any in the carriages you showed.

[@chrismckellar9350]

Yes, there is accessible facilities including seating in the Cafe carriage.

[@heathertruskinger6214]

​@@chrismckellar9350 thanks...that's good to know

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Yes, it’s very picturesque. There’s an accessible seating area in the cafe car. You’ll be able to see it briefly in my video about the Northern Explorer. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fpOxmZ9nhqh6fbc

[@chrismckellar9350]

Thee same applies for the Coastal Pacific train between Christchurch and Picton, the Northern Explorer train between Wellington and Auckland at the Te Huia train between Wellington and Hamilton and the new carriages on the Capital Connection train between Wellington and Palmerston North. Once a reservation has been made, you need to Contact Great Journeys New Zealand to advise that you need boarding assistance.

[@stuartferguson7947]

When I did the trip I often had the Open Air Carriage to myself

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Brilliant!

[@TheDarkFalcon]

Scenic Plus in dead of winter next time thanks! 😁

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Sounds good. ☺️

[@a.rentertainment2232]

Hi. Will you eventually review the railways of the UK? Cheers and keep up the work!

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Fingers crossed - yes, I’d love to make some UK rail trips. I have been there a few times (and lived in London for a while) but that was before I started making videos. Cheers!

[@steveb4599]

Transcoastal was amazing... before the earthquakes

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Yes, have you seen my video about the Coastal Pacific (after the earthquakes)? kzbin.info/www/bejne/g3qVhmVvZ8d7n68

[@bevstephens8425]

Friends from Australia say that it is overrated, I suppose their expectations were too high. Probably the best time would be to go in autumn or spring when there is snow is on the mountains. It's certainly not cheap and I'm probably never going to do it because I get a free drive over to Hokitika with my brother. 😀

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Yes, it all depends on your expectations. I enjoyed it. Cheers! 😁

[@kennethcampbell7263]

I expect the extra engines put on at Arthur's pass is also for direct turn around at Greymouth.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

I don’t believe so because they’re removed at Otira. The train then continues to Greymouth with just the two. 🤔

[@scotthooson1356]

Yes Please

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Cheers!

[@andreawoelke]

Amazing journey. I just don't get why there is this carfuffle with checked baggage and checking in a long time before the start. What's wrong with just getting on and leaving your case in a luggage rack as on any modern civilised railway?

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Thanks Andrea. I’m not sure … I’m presuming KiwiRail must have a reason or perhaps it’s just always been done like this. It would be complicated to change now because the carriages have been designed without space for luggage. 🤔

[@ph89787]

Oh i haven't been on that train since i was a kid

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Maybe time for another trip.

[@ph89787]

@@FromtheWindowSeat After doing the coastal Pacific and northern explorer.

[@VladAuTravel]

Wow , the video is actually from November.. now it is nearly July...

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Yes, it takes me a long time to edit videos as this is a hobby and I have a full time job. I also have a backlog of videos to edit (currently 5 filmed but not yet edited).

[@feeralph8001]

Yes please I would appreciate a comment on the scenic plus.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Great. Will see what I can do. 🤓

[@mauricebrown9094]

And as it turns out the name on that Countdown store has just changed back to Woolworths this month,

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Oh right - well there you go. Cheers!

[@lizairns5931]

So that you have the correct information. The old bridge supports in the Grey River at Greymouth was for a road bridge. The railway bridge had wooden supports but is no longer visable just up river from the old road supports. I wasn't living here when these new bridges were built. It is possible that the rail supports may have had to go because they were in the way of the new rail bridge construction.I was born in Greymouth but spent a few years away in the 1970s when these new bridges were built.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Ah, I see. Good to know. Thanks for letting me know.

[@elora2525]

Wow new Zealand is so much more beautiful compared to Australia. The isolation doesn't feel as bad .

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

New Zealand has very diverse and dramatic scenery. It makes sense so many films are made there.

[@DimaManuel]

Please make a review of scenic plus route! 🙏

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

🤞🏽

[@johnmullin1188]

Was the goats wild or belong to a farm all the best John 😊

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

They looked wild to me, though I’m not certain.

[@CommissarioPippo1993]

Iscritto al canale 😊

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Grazie!

[@andrewharvey6213]

In New Zealand, always blow on your pie

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Good tip - thanks!

[@The_Travelling_Jonoberries]

Adam what is the best time to travel on this train, crowds etc. we are planning our rail adventure to NZ for next year

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

It’s hard for me to say as I’ve only travelled on this train twice. Once in summer, once in winter. If travelling in summer, then you’re best to travel midweek rather than on weekends. Also, I believe travelling west is more popular (busy) than travelling east. 🤔

[@The_Travelling_Jonoberries]

@@FromtheWindowSeat on another note we were searching for train journeys and came across your channel, wow you are good Adam, we have done a lot of train travel around Australia but we are looking for travel in NZ so thank you for your very informative journeys. Have you thought about the Savannahlander that leaves from Cairns and goes to Forsayth?

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

@@The_Travelling_Jonoberries Thanks so much! I certainly have thought about the Savannahlander … just a matter of finding time. Certainly keen to do it one day. 😃

[@The_Travelling_Jonoberries]

@@FromtheWindowSeat it is a pity that governments decided modernise the rail transportation systems, done from a necessity to now a boutique journey. Take the Ghan, Platinum Class double bed cabin $10k wow, a great trip but there is better value out there hence NZ. Where you off to next?

[@shavaunemcgregor5090]

What's the name of the background song it's quite catchy 😊

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

There’s a few different tracks. Can you let me know the timecode and I’ll check. 🤔

[@rajinaalmeida4968]

How long is the train ride in the 8km tunnel

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

From memory it’s 15 minutes or so but can’t be sure.

[@JustinRichardson-so5me]

How much does the scenic plus cost in the peak of summer. And can they do something about the wine selection pretty please. If Customers pay the $ give them what they want. Cloudy Bay is a suggestion.

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

From what I can see online, Scenic Plus is NZD $449 in summer one-way. I think they do offer more premium wine options in Scenic Plus. 🤔

[@JustinRichardson-so5me]

Thanks for the reply but that makes completely no sense. One it's too expensive and two it's not the busyness season. I have eaten better in 3 hat restaurants. Like I said you don't even have your best wine on display and you say $449. You kiwis really need to do some major work on your hospitality

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

@@JustinRichardson-so5me Just to clarify, what’s shown in this video is Scenic Class (no food or drink included - so you purchase from the cafe) rather than Scenic Plus. So the fare is a lot less than Scenic Plus.