Rated amongst the top ten railway journeys in the world. After crossing the Canterbury Plains, the train follows the spectacular Waimakariri Gorge, passing alternately through nineteen tunnels and over high viaducts.
From here the train passes along the upper valleys of the Waimakariri River through bush clad, snow-capped mountains to Arthur's Pass, through the Otira tunnel (longest tunnel of all) and then on the Greymouth.
Shantytown is one of New Zealand's unique tourist attractions, is a replica of a South Island West Coast gold mining town set in the 1860s.
Situated amid beautiful native bush, visitors are invited to step back in time and experience the variety of activities and view relics from this fascinating era.
The Shantytown Steam Train will take you on a nostalgic journey along the tranquil Infants Creek railway, where you will see other attractions such as its own working Sawmill and a Gold Claim where visitors can pan for gold.
Shantytown has 30 buildings on exhibit, with original artifacts on display. Other facilities include a fully licensed restaurant that serves morning & afternoon refreshments and lunch, a licensed hotel, Gem and Mineral Exhibition Hall and Post Office with its own special postmark.
Administered by the West Coast Historical and Mechanical Society Incorporated, it prides itself on its reputation for excellence where visitors enjoy a quality experience in the picturesque surroundings of the West Coast rainforest.
Departs Addington Station
