6WD, Jet Boats and Trains

The Train Arriving at Arthurs Pass

Our first full day in Christchurch had us taking the Alpine safari – an all day excursion that started in a six wheel drive Land Cruiser that holds roughly a dozen people. We drove out across the Canterbury Plains in which Christchurch resides out to the mountains to the west.

Our first venue was a drive through a large farm highlighting much of the local rural scenery and livestock (there’s more than sheep – really).

Next up – a 45 minute jet boat ride!

Jet Boat Instructions

Had I known how cool this was going to be I would have also done it in Queenstown, where it was also offered. The ride up and down river (about 15 miles each way) was fantastic – even the occasional 360’s – and the view was gorgeous.

Kathy and Leo in the Jet Boat

After getting back into the 6WD, we headed further into the mountains to Arthur’s Pass, where we boarded the train shown at the top that took us back into town

A View from the Jet Boat

As always, photos (and my narrative) don’t do it justice. This was a very worthwhile excursion.