We selected Mt Hutt Lodge in Rakaia Gorge due to proximity to Christchurch and Arthur's Pass. This is a pleasant mountain location with excellent scenery. Mount Hutt Lodge is situated in an elevated position facing west towards Mount Hutt, overlooking the picturesque Rakaia river on the inland scenic route between Darfield and Methven, Canterbury. Approximately one hour's drive from Christchurch International Airport, guests at Mount Hutt Lodge come to the area for skiing, snowboarding, exploring the Rakaia river which offers world-class trout and salmon fishing, jet-boating, hunting, golfing, tramping, walking, horse-trekking, and other outdoor activities, on a year-round basis. Mount Hutt Lodge is just 10 minutes' drive from the Mt Hutt ski area base carpark, and 12 minutes' to Methven, a town with a good range of amenities. The scenic beauty of the area - river gorge, stunning mountains and farmland, is a huge attraction for locals and tourists alike. And we were positioned to experience the South Island's striking natural landscape by taking a train between Christchurch and Greymouth. Along this journey we saw epic vistas, ice-fed Waimakariri River, Southern Alps, and miles of native beech forest. The TranzAlpine is one of the world's great train journeys covering 223 kilometres (139 miles) one-way, taking just under 5 hours. We traversed the majestic Canterbury Plains, to the backdrop of the mighty Southern Alps. The route firstly heads north-east to join the Waimakariri River gorge. This aqua-blue river will appear and disappear out of your window several times as the TranzAlpine clings and climbs up the cliffs above it. During the ascent to the high plains of Craigieburn, there are 15 short tunnels and four dramatic viaducts, including the 72-metre high Staircase Viaduct. The most iconic views come at the far end of the Craigieburn Straight, where the high plains stretch out to give a stunning view of Mount Binser and the edges of Arthur's Pass National Park. Shortly after, the train meets again with the Waimakariri River and then crosses it to reach Arthur's Pass. This section is stunningly beautiful and is where the famous views of the TranzAlpine crossing the Waimakariri River are taken. From Arthur's Pass, the TranzAlpine descends through the 8.5km long Otira Tunnel. This landmark structure was the second longest tunnel in the world when it was completed in 1923. It's historic completion also marked the completion of the Midland Line and the opening of the railway line from Christchurch to Greymouth. https://www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz/tranzalpine/ Mt Hutt Lodge is both motel and timeshare and is adequate for our travels. And we found the restaurant and bar to be a bonus attraction. We also found the on-site owners to be friendly and great cooks. read more

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