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Following the successful limited time revival of The Southerner rail route, Great Journeys New Zealand is adding another round of dates, allowing more guests to relive the nostalgic journey.
With return trips daily from October 25-27, the train journey traces part of the historic rail route between Dunedin and Christchurch.
This time, the team is offering a chance to combine The Southerner with a relaxing short break in Christchurch, the vibrant heart of the South Island.
The new Christchurch Explorer option sees travellers depart Dunedin on October 25, returning October 27 with two nights’ accommodation in a central Christchurch hotel. The package includes the opportunity to discover notable locations including Banks Peninsula, the historic port town of Lyttelton, and the beachside haven of Sumner on a fully guided tour.
Executive GM passenger Tracey Goodall says the revived rail route has been immensely popular, with May packages selling out and a long wait list.
“We’re excited by the strong interest in ‘The Southerner Returns’, which ignites nostalgia and happy memories for many New Zealanders,” she says. “These one-off tourism experiences pay homage to the original passenger train that once connected Christchurch and Invercargill via Dunedin, travelling along the iconic Main South Line.”
Operating from December 1, 1970, to February 10, 2002, The Southerner was a staple of rail travel in the South Island. These Great Journeys New Zealand special services are reviving the well-known route, offering the same fantastic views but now in the comfort of the new Scenic and premium Scenic Plus carriages.
To secure a spot in October, guests can book now through the Great Journeys New Zealand website.
