Day 9 - 5th Aug 2007

Early start in Christchurch which was a little drier to head to the station and catch the TranzAlpine Express train to Greymouth. This train takes you from the east coast (Christchurch) across the Southern Alps to the west coast at Greymouth.

The ride up the eastern side of the mountains is truly spectacular. The mountains are high, the train crosses desolate countryside and the running commentary is fun and informative. Something you don't see on UK trains is an open observation car so you can get outside to enjoy the fresh air and views.

At the mid-point (Arthur's Pass), there's a chance to get off the train to stretch your legs and enjoy a quick snow-ball fight (see photos). Going down the western side isn't as dramatic but this is definitely the best way to make the trip.

Greymouth is pretty much empty - it used to be a busy port but there's hardly any traffic now. We picked up a car and headed down to Franz Joseph where we'll be based for the next couple of days. Franz Joseph is a one-street town famous for the glacier of the same name which runs nearby. We're staying at the Glen Fern Villas which is a small holiday park where we have a very modern 2 bedroom villa. The park has a laundry so Annette takes the opportunity to do our first washing and we visit the local supermarket to make our own dinner for the first time also.

New Zealand 2007 pt 5