Quick Facts
Greymouth for Families — Overview
Greymouth is the largest town on the West Coast and the western terminus of the famous TranzAlpine train from Christchurch. For families, the TranzAlpine day trip is the main event — a spectacular alpine railway crossing through the Southern Alps. The town also has good access to the Lake Brunner area and Point Elizabeth walkway on the coast.
Top Things to Do in Greymouth with Kids
- ✓ TranzAlpine scenic train — day trip to Christchurch and back through the Southern Alps. One of NZ's great train journeys.
- ✓ Monteith's Brewing Company tour — West Coast's famous brewery. Tours run twice daily.
- ✓ Lake Brunner / Moana (40 min south) — beautiful alpine lake, excellent for kayaking and fishing
- ✓ Point Elizabeth walkway — coastal walk with seals and sea views. 2 hrs return. Free.
- ✓ Shantytown Heritage Park (20 min south) — restored 1880s gold mining town with gold panning. Good for kids.
Rainy Day Options — Greymouth
Where to Stay in Greymouth with Kids
Good holiday park and motels. Greymouth is primarily a transit and day-trip base.
Find Greymouth Accommodation on Booking.com →Greymouth Family Budget Guide
TranzAlpine from $129/adult return (book ahead). Shantytown $32/adult. Good value.
Use the NZ Family Travel Budget Calculator to plan your full trip spend.
Greymouth Family FAQ
Is the TranzAlpine train worth doing with kids?
Yes — the TranzAlpine is one of the world's great scenic train journeys and genuinely spectacular for kids. The 4.5-hour journey crosses the Southern Alps through the Otira Gorge and over Arthur's Pass. There's an open observation car. You can do it as a day trip (Christchurch to Greymouth and back) or one-way with a pick-up by car. Book ahead — it fills up.
Nearby Destinations to Combine with Greymouth
All NZ City Family Guides →
Family guides for 33 NZ cities and towns — from Whangarei to Invercargill.