🇳🇿 Christchurch → Greymouth: 2-Day Train + Road Trip Guide

🚂 Day 1: Alpine Scenic Train Adventure 📍 Christchurch Station (Tower Junction) 8:15AM departure (arrive 20 mins early; free parking available). Pro tips: Check large luggage (airline-style rules apply). Charge devices via USB ports under seats. Open-air viewing cars close during tunnels—listen for announcements! 🌄 Journey Highlights: Canterbury Plains (pastoral views 🐑) → Arthur’s Pass (alpine lakes + peaks ⛰️). Cafe car serves brunch—or grab KFC in Greymouth post-arrival (1:10PM). 🚗 Afternoon Exploration: Pancake Rocks (45-min drive): 30-min loop walk + reward yourself with ice cream 🍦. Dinner at Monteith’s Brewery: Venison sliders 🍔 + craft beer flights (RIP pork ribs 😢). Sunset at Southern Breakwater (if clear skies!). 🪙 Day 2: Gold Rush Nostalgia ⏰ 9:00AM: Shantytown Heritage Park Ride the vintage train ($8 extra for gold panning—keep what you find! 💰). "Miner’s Breakfast" at 10AM ☕. 🛍️ Town Highlights: Shades of Jade (Pounamu/greenstone gallery 💚). Sevenpenny Cafe for pre-train fuel. 🚂 2:15PM: Return train to Christchurch (5hrs)—toast with local dark beer! 🍻 #NZTravel #ScenicTrain #WestCoast #RoadTrip #Greymouth