A new long-distance train called The Mainlander will soon connect Christchurch, Dunedin and Invercargill for the first time in over 20 years. Starting 20 January, the train will run monthly, with hopes for more frequent trips in the future.
The journey will take four days in total, including overnight stays in both Dunedin and Invercargill before returning to Christchurch. Tickets are already on sale, with a one-way trip to Dunedin costing $229 and a full return trip costing $449.
The Mainlander brings back a service that last ran from 1970 to 2002. It is being launched by the private Rail and Tourism Group, whose CEO, Paul Jackson, said it will benefit both locals and tourists by linking the South Island’s major cities.
Recent changes such as the return of international flights to Dunedin, a new hotel in Invercargill, and Christchurch’s new stadium helped inspire the project. Mayors from all three cities welcomed the news.
Dunedin’s mayor said the restored carriages are already helping local jobs at KiwiRail’s Hillside Workshop. Christchurch’s mayor called the plan “fantastic,” while Invercargill’s mayor shared memories of the joy of train travel.
More travel dates will be announced soon, with regular trips expected to begin on Fridays and return on Sundays.
