Passenger Rail To Reconnect Christchurch, Dunedin And Invercargill

Long-distance passenger rail is returning to the South Island, with The Mainlander set to consistently reconnect Christchurch, Dunedin and Invercargill for the first time in decades.

The Mainlander will operate along the South Island’s east coast, giving both locals and visitors a new option for travel between the region’s largest cities and giving passengers a rare chance to see the South Island from a rail perspective. The route traverses some of the country’s most distinctive landscapes.

The service is being delivered by New Zealand-owned Rail and Tourism Group, the New Zealand company behind Mainland Rail, which is also progressing plans for an Event Express Train – event-day rail services from Rolleston and Rangiora into the new One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha.

Paul Jackson CEO of Rail and Tourism Group said the Event Express Train would transport thousands of people directly into the central city from Rolleston, Rangiora and potentially Ashburton on major event days, easing congestion, supporting central city businesses, and providing a real-world trial of a longer-term commuter rail network for Greater Christchurch.

Jackson says the first series of The Mainlander journeys will operate during the January school holidays, with services running from 20–23 January 2026. The inaugural timetable includes Christchurch to Dunedin on 20 January, Dunedin to Invercargill on 21 January, Invercargill to Dunedin on 22 January, and a return service from Dunedin to Christchurch on 23 January. Individual tickets as well as packages will be available including a local excursion on the spectacular Taieri Gorge.

Rail and Tourism Group will release the next set of monthly dates shortly, with future services expected to follow a regular pattern of departing on Fridays and returning on Sundays.

With growing demand for sustainable, scenic and convenient travel options, city and regional leaders say the return of long-distance passenger rail is timely and much needed.

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger says, “This is great news for our city and a boost for public transport options across the South Island. The Mainlander will reconnect Christchurch with Dunedin and Invercargill in a way that brings both convenience and character back to regional travel.

“It's about giving people choice, whether they're tourists wanting to experience our great landscapes or locals looking who don’t want to use the road. This rail service puts Christchurch right at the heart of a southern tourism circuit, and we're excited to welcome passengers arriving at our station ready to explore what our city has to offer."

The service is also supported by Sophie Barker, Mayor of Dunedin. “The announcement of The Mainlander is a huge win for Dunedin. The public has been calling for more rail connections between the South Island’s main centres, and this is a significant step toward that.

“Earlier this year, a Christchurch–Dunedin rail experience sold out quickly, showing strong demand for rail as both a travel option and a tourism experience.

“Visitors will now be able to travel down the east coast and arrive directly at one of the world’s most spectacular railway stations, right in the heart of Ōtepoti. Increased rail connectivity strengthens our position as a premier destination.

“Dunedin is already seeing economic benefits, with the carriages restored and prepared for service at KiwiRail’s Hillside Workshop, supporting skilled engineering jobs in our city.”

Rebekah Jenkins, General Manager of Dunedin Railways says, the arrival of The Mainlander marks an exciting new chapter for Dunedin and the wider region.

“It highlights the growing appeal of heritage and scenic rail experiences, particularly the Taieri Gorge journey, an unforgettable adventure through rugged landscapes, hand-carved tunnels and century old viaducts, brought to life with storytelling and a sense of timeless New Zealand charm.

Having this service come to Dunedin opens the door for more visitors to discover the Taieri Gorge and explore everything our city and region have to offer. It’s a fantastic boost for Dunedin’s tourism sector and local economy, creating new connections, new partnerships, and fresh opportunities to showcase the heart of Otago,” says Rebekah Jenkins.

Mayor of Invercargill Tom Campell is also supporting the service. “Most of us remember the experience of travelling by train, the rhythm of the wheels, the changing landscape, and seeing familiar places from a different angle. It’s great to see that experience returning to the South.”

Mark Frood, General Manager, Tourism & Events of Great South also welcomes the return of passenger rail to the south. “The Mainlander provides a slower and more connected way to travel, and it opens up another option for local people to visit Dunedin and Christchurch by train,” says Frood.

Paul Jackson, Rail and Tourism Group CEO says the reintroduction of long-distance rail is expected to deliver region-wide benefits, strengthening transport links between the South Island’s major cities and providing a relaxing and enjoyable alternative to long-distance driving.

“We will continue to work with the major South Island cities to identify, develop and support regional rail and tourism opportunities,” says Jackson.

The Mainlander is also expected to attract domestic and international visitors looking for an immersive rail experience, supporting tourism, hospitality, events and the broader regional economy.

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