Travel Christchurch to Nelson the scenic way, by taking the TranzAlpine railway from Christchurch to Greymouth and connecting to InterCity’s West Coast bus service from Greymouth to Nelson.

TranzAlpine trains depart daily from Christchurch Railway Station. The journey takes approximately 11 hours to complete and travels along a spectacular route across the Canterbury Plains, through the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass and onto the West Coast. From there, wind your way up the coast past Punakaiki (home of the famous Pancake Rocks) and Westport, arriving in Nelson in the evening.

Search and book your Christchurch to Nelson travel now with InterCity!

Find out more about the TranzAlpine.

Bus Christchurch to Nelson. 

About Nelson

Situated at the top of the South Island on the eastern shores of Tasman Bay, Nelson is the second oldest settled city in New Zealand. Nelson is known for its arts and crafts and hosts popular events every year such as the Nelson Arts Festival.

Nelson is home to three stunning National Parks: the Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson Lakes National Park and Kahurangi National Park, home to the Heaphy track which is popular with mountain bikers. The Nelson region has some of the best destinations for white water rafting and kayaking. It’s also home to 25 wineries, and is a fertile region known for its fresh produce.

For more information about Nelson visit nelson.co.nz