Page 19 of New Zealand Island Discoveries Shore Tours by P&O Cruises

c hristchu rc h tranzalpine experience approximate duration 71/2 hours chc-a take the tranzalpine one of the most scenic rail journeys in all new zealand what you see on your scenic drive an air-conditioned motorcoach whisks you through the lyttelton road tunnel and into christchurch for a quick overview of sights including hagley park the river avon cathedral square and the town hall continue through kirwee and darfield to arrive at homebush taking the scenic road journey through waddington and springfield to rakaia before crossing the flat canterbury plains where sheep and cattle farms abound after traversing porter s pass begin the ascent past lakes and ski-fields to arrive at your train s embarkation point in arthur s pass national park christchu rc h christchurch city sightseeing approximate duration 4 hours chc-b christchurch boasts well-tended gardens fine victorian architecture and ivycovered stone houses on this tour become acquainted with this charming city spanning the meandering river avon and fondly known throughout new zealand as the garden city what you visit botanical gardens free time is allowed to stroll through this shady oasis with its many handsome trees monuments fountains and well-tended garden beds full of colourful flowers christchurch arts centre conveniently bordering the botanic gardens spend some free time browsing amongst the galleries and art shops before viewing local artisans at work within the gothic-style buildings of christchurch s former university mona vale take a leisurely walk through the 14-acre english-style gardens surrounding this historic victorian-style homestead built beside the avon river there is a significant stand of such stately trees as conifers and maples along with colourful rhododendrons and camellias photo opportunities sign of the takahe pause at this old stone roadhouse for its superb views over the canterbury plains refreshments refreshments are not included however during your free time you may choose to treat yourself to a cappuccino at one of the many cafés nearby the arts centre shopping during your free time at the arts centre you are sure to be tempted by the quality galleries and small shops what you see along the way from lyttelton travel through dyer s pass and over the port hills to reach christchurch your motorcoach passes cathedral square the town hall and floral clock en route to the botanical gardens after your visit to christchurch s primary landmarks return to the ship in lyttelton by way of new zealand s longest road tunnel notes during your free time you may visit canterbury museum located opposite the arts centre general admission is free but donations are appreciated a local guide will remain at the arts centre to answer questions and hand out city guides bring local currency or a credit card for shopping and for purchasing refreshments notes the scenic drive portion tour operates in a motorcoach with a driver/guide whereas due to the nature of the train this portion will not include a guide s narrative please ensure that you wear comfortable flatsoled shoes clothing suited to the weather conditions a hat and jacket and bring along some sunscreen and bottled water christchurch what you visit homebush settled in the 1840s and still home to a member of the founding family the homestead is surrounded by eight acres of woodland gardens and rhododendrons and continues to offer a fascinating glimpse of colonial farming receive some country-style hospitality and witness a demonstration of sheep shearing before continuing your scenic drive arthur s pass national park this scenic region encompasses 24,000 acres of rainforest set amongst the mighty southern alps time is allowed to explore the park s headquarters take a brief bush walk or simply admire the magnificent mountain scenery lunch and refreshments a country-style morning tea is served at the homebush homestead followed by a late lunch served shortly after boarding the tranzalpine train shopping visit the craft shop at homestead with its tempting range of merchandise your tranzalpine rail experience as you begin your descent of the mountain a spectacle of unrivalled scenery unfolds as you journey across viaducts and through tunnels in the heart of the southern alps snow-capped mountains native rainforest and river gorges adorn this remote region of new zealand the town of springfield passes as you travel through the canterbury plains en route to lyttelton railway station and your nearby ship 34 35 christchurch

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