Alpine Train to West Coast

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I took the train from Christchurch to Greymouth, east coast to west coast, crossing South Island, New Zealand. I don't seem to have time to write lengthy descriptions and will let the comments on the pictures describe the journey. This train ride is suppose to be one of the best in the world in terms of scenery. You can decide. The cool winds made riding in observation carriage challenging and the wet morning may have dulled the landscape for the first two hours.

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Photos

Frame
I think I'll frame this one when I get home. Return trip towards Christchurch with setting sun.

Map
Route for today's trip.

Jump Aboard
I had to change seats so I would face forward on this early train.

Rainy
It was rainy in Christchurch this morning. The first part of the journey was covered in misty clouds.

Gorge
Highlights of first part of trip.

Observation Carriage
There was open compartment to take photos....in chilling winds. It was worth the cold, to get pics away from window reflection

COLD
The wind was relentless, freezing our fingers while we grasped onto our cameras, moving from side to side to catch the perfect shots.

Arthur
The train stopped for photos. Everyone got off the train, to snap pics or smoke. Fog decorated the mountains.

Pass of Arthur
He was the engineer's son, the one who picked the correct mountain pass to explore for train route.

Moody
I wonder what it is like to live up here?

Post-15-Minutes in Tunnel
The entire train went 'oooooooh' when the train emerged from long dark tunnel and suddenly we were in sunlight.

Biggest Lake
This is the biggest lake in this area.

Jade
Jade is/was mined in Greymouth

Glacial River
The river we have been following by train finally meets the Tasmanian sea.

Museum
Tribute to coal miners and railway builders.

Statue
Dedicated to everyone who helps someone.