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Long-distance passenger rail is returning to the South Island, with The Mainlander set to reconnect Christchurch, Dunedin and Invercargill for the first time in decades.
Delivered by New Zealand-owned Rail and Tourism Group, the service will operate along the South Island’s east coast, offering locals and visitors a new way to travel between major centres while taking in some of the region’s most distinctive landscapes.
Rail and Tourism Group chief executive Paul Jackson says the first series of journeys will run during the January school holidays, with services scheduled from Tuesday, January 20, to Friday, January 23, 2026. The inaugural timetable includes Christchurch to Dunedin on January 20, Dunedin to Invercargill on January 21, Invercargill to Dunedin on January 22, and Dunedin to Christchurch on January 23. Ticket and package options will include a local excursion on the Taieri Gorge.
The company will release additional monthly dates shortly, with future services expected to follow a regular Friday-to-Sunday pattern.
Paul says the return of long-distance passenger rail is timely, with growing demand for sustainable, scenic and convenient travel options.
“This service provides a relaxing alternative to long-distance driving and strengthens connections between the South Island’s major cities. We will continue to work with these cities to identify, develop and support regional rail and tourism opportunities.”
Christchurch mayor Phil Mauger welcomed the announcement.
“This is great news for our city and a boost for public transport options across the South Island. It gives people choice — whether they’re visitors wanting to experience our great landscapes or locals who don’t want to use the road. This rail service puts Christchurch at the heart of a southern tourism circuit.”
Dunedin mayor Sophie Barker says the public has long called for stronger rail connections.
“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. Increased rail connectivity strengthens our position as a premier destination.”
Preparation work for the new service has supported skilled jobs, with carriages restored at KiwiRail’s Hillside Workshop.
Dunedin Railways general manager Rebekah Jenkins says The Mainlander will help introduce more visitors to heritage and scenic rail.
“It highlights the growing appeal of journeys like the Taieri Gorge, with its rugged landscapes, hand-carved tunnels and century-old viaducts. Having this service come to Dunedin opens the door for more visitors to explore everything our city and region have to offer.”
Invercargill mayor Tom Campbell says the service will revive a memorable way to travel.
“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 and events at Great South, says the new rail route creates another option for locals and visitors.
“The Mainlander provides a slower and more connected way to travel, and it opens up another way to visit Dunedin and Christchurch by train.”
The Mainlander is expected to attract both domestic and international visitors seeking an immersive rail experience, supporting tourism, hospitality, events and the wider regional economy.
