Lunch at Arthurs Pass

For those who want to experience an Alpine Village, a trip to Arthur's Pass is one we recommend.
It is situated in the centre of the Southern Alps.

It is a comfortable 90-minute drive from Pininoa but give yourself a good 2 hours to enjoy the scenery & marvel at the Viaduct from the viewing area.

You will drive through the Otira Gorge with high mountains on one side & the Otira River on the other, then over the viaduct  which was completed in 2002.  The scenery is magnificent, so do give yourself time to enjoy the drive & have a look around.

There a several reasonably easy, pleasant walks around the village & also hikes for the trampers.
There is an excellent Department of Conservation information centre.

There is a delightful church built in stone with a magnificent view up the mountains.