Arthur's Pass

SH73 runs 231 km between Christchurch and the West Coast. It follows the Waimakariri valley past Castle Hill, crosses Porters Pass (939 m) and Arthur's Pass (920 m), then drops through Otira to Greymouth. It runs alongside the TranzAlpine railway and suits a day trip or a two-day crossing.

The stops

1. Start

   Christchurch

2. Viewpoint

   Porters Pass

   Highest point on SH73

3. Nature

   Castle Hill

   Limestone boulder field

4. Town

   Arthur's Pass Village

   Alpine village and DOC visitor centre

5. Landmark

   Otira Viaduct

   Viaduct replaced a scree-slope section

6. Town

   Greymouth

   West Coast end of the road

7. Finish

   Greymouth

Where to stay

• Night 1

  Arthur's Pass Village

  Alpine Motel Arthur's Pass

When to go

Oct–Apr; snow and ice possible May–Sep

On the road

Snow chains may be required. Keas can damage parked cars. Check NZTA for closures.