📷 Photo by Michael Sanchez on UnsplashGreymouth to Christchurch over Arthur's Pass
A two-day alpine drive on SH73 from the West Coast over Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill to Christchurch.
- Distance
- 228 km (142 mi)
- Driving
- 2 h 29 min
- Suggested days
- 2
- Stops
- 8
- States
- New Zealand
- Updated
- May 7, 2026
At a glance: 2-day road trip of about 228 km (142 mi) with 8 stops, from Greymouth to International Antarctic Centre. About 2 h 29 min of driving in total.
More road trips in New Zealand
Route description
SH73 leaves Greymouth and follows the Taramakau valley east toward Otira, about 70 km of fast road. Fill up in Greymouth, as there is no fuel at the pass. The road then climbs the Otira Gorge, where a viaduct and tight bends make this one of the steepest sections on the South Island. Check NZTA for closures after snow or rain.
Arthur's Pass is a small alpine village inside a national park, about 95 km from Greymouth. Walk to Devils Punchbowl Falls in half an hour, and watch for kea, the alpine parrots; do not feed them and keep windows closed, because they damage vehicles. The weather can change quickly, so carry warm clothes. Cafes and a small shop serve the village, but buy fuel and main supplies beforehand.
East of the pass SH73 crosses open tussock country to Castle Hill, where limestone boulders are a short walk from the road. Continue past Springfield and across the Canterbury plains toward Christchurch, about 100 km from Castle Hill. The plains road has long straights and strong crosswinds, which affect high-sided vehicles. Snow is possible at the pass from late autumn into spring, and chains may be required.
In Christchurch, visit the Botanic Gardens, the Transitional Cathedral and the Antarctic Centre near the airport. The city centre is flat and parking is mostly paid; holiday parks sit on the edges. Freedom camping is limited, so use official sites, and check whether your vehicle holds a self-contained certificate. The city has rebuilt many sites since the 2011 earthquakes, and the new library and river walk are easy to reach by foot.
Stop-by-stop itinerary
In driving order. Distances are estimates between consecutive stops.
- 1Start
Greymouth
New Zealand - 274 km
Arthur's Pass
New Zealand - 31 km
Devils Punchbowl Falls
NatureArthur's Pass, New ZealandA 131-metre waterfall reached by a steep 30-minute climb of steps from the village. Wear sturdy shoes and expect spray at the base. The track is short but steep, and the weather can change fast in the Southern Alps.
- 440 km
Castle Hill (Kura Tāwhiti)
ViewsArthur's Pass, New ZealandA basin of white limestone boulders and outcrops among tussock, sacred to Ngāi Tahu, near SH73. Short tracks wind through the rocks; avoid climbing on them. It is exposed and cold, and the car park fills quickly in summer.
- 599 km
Christchurch
New Zealand - 61 km
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
NatureChristchurch, New ZealandGardens of lawns, rose beds and glasshouses beside the Avon River and Hagley Park, free to enter. Take a punt on the river or a walk through the park; allow two hours and use the street parking by the museum or the nearby car parks.
- 72 km
Transitional (Cardboard) Cathedral
HistoryChristchurch, New ZealandA temporary cathedral designed by architect Shigeru Ban after the 2011 earthquakes, built with cardboard tubes and timber. It remains a visible symbol of the rebuild; check opening times and walk on to the nearby memorial wall beside the Avon.
- 811 km
International Antarctic Centre
HistoryChristchurch, New ZealandA visitor attraction beside the airport telling the story of New Zealand's Antarctic programme, with a polar storm chamber and rescue vehicles. Parking is plentiful and free; allow half a day, and book tickets online during school holidays.
Suggested stages and overnight stops
2 days, split by driving time. Campsites from OpenStreetMap: check opening dates before you go.
- Day 1: Greymouth → Castle Hill (Kura Tāwhiti) · 115 km · 1 h 15 minOn the way: Arthur's Pass, Devils Punchbowl Falls.
- Day 2: Castle Hill (Kura Tāwhiti) → International Antarctic Centre · 113 km · 1 h 14 minOn the way: Christchurch, Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Transitional (Cardboard) Cathedral.
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually February–April and October–November. Still fine, with some compromises, in May and December–January. July and August are the busiest months: book campsites early.
Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons
FAQs
How long is Greymouth to Christchurch over Arthur's Pass?
2-day road trip of about 228 km (142 mi) with 8 stops, from Greymouth to International Antarctic Centre. About 2 h 29 min of driving in total.
How many days do you need for Greymouth to Christchurch over Arthur's Pass?
We suggest 2 days: about 2 h 29 min of driving, which leaves time for the stops.
Where does Greymouth to Christchurch over Arthur's Pass start and end?
It starts in Greymouth and ends in International Antarctic Centre.
Which states does Greymouth to Christchurch over Arthur's Pass pass through?
New Zealand.
When is the best time for Greymouth to Christchurch over Arthur's Pass?
The most pleasant months are usually February–April and October–November. Still fine, with some compromises, in May and December–January. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
