Mainlander Train FAQ — common questions about the Christchurch to Dunedin train, tickets, check-in, luggage, mobility and Rail & Stay packages.
Common questions about travelling on The Mainlander. Looking for package details? See also Rail & Stay Packages, Weekend Journeys, and the 9-Day Southern Rail & Coach Tour.
Mobility: The Mainlander Train has limited mobility access with no Wheelchair or Scooter access. Guests will be required to board unaided, using the vertical steps on all transport.
Passengers with mobility challenges MUST be able to climb 2–3 vertical, high, train steps, and be capable of walking a short distance, unaided (for shuttle transfers).
We can carry lightweight mobility devices that fold/compact down (like walkers). For more details on accessibility, please contact info@pounamutourismgroup.com
Can I book just part of the journey?
Yes. One-way and return fares are available across selected stations — you don’t need to travel the full route.
Is there a Gold Card discount?
Yes. Gold Card holders receive a 10% discount at check-out.
Can I make seating requests?
Tickets & allocated seats will be finalised approximately 48-hours prior to departure. Your final ticket will include your carriage and seat allocation. Seating requests can be noted at the time of booking, but are subject to availability and not guaranteed.
Is accommodation included with a ticket-only booking?
No. Ticket-only / Weekend Journeys fares are rail only. For rail plus accommodation, see our Rail & Stay Packages.
What is the weekend schedule?
Southbound services generally run on Friday, the Dunedin–Invercargill return on Sunday, and northbound services on Monday. Exact dates and availability are shown when you search.
Where & when do I check-in?
Christchurch: Please check-in outside the main entrance to Addington Station at least 30-minutes prior to the train departure (check-in is only available from 08:20am). Access to the station seating area is only available after 08:20am when the earlier trains have departed.
Dunedin: Please check-in on the Dunedin Station platform at least 15-minutes prior to the train departure.
Other Stations: Regional departures from Rolleston, Timaru, Oamaru and Invercargill, check-in will be completed by our onboard team upon the Train arrival. Please note that regional stations are not permanently staffed.
What does a Rail & Stay package include?
Mainlander rail travel, 3 nights accommodation at a Dunedin 4-star hotel, daily breakfast and transfers, with pricing based on the itinerary you choose.
What does twin share mean?
Twin share pricing is based on two people sharing a room, with the per person price shown accordingly.
Food & Beverages
Our onboard Café offers a small selection of food and drink available for purchase during the journey. We also offer alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase. You may bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages on board the train.
If you would like something more substantial, a Lunch Box is available to pre-order for the journey (lunch box option is not available for DUN-INV-DUN service). Lunch boxes must be pre-ordered (orders close 7-days prior to departure) and can be ordered at the time of booking or by clicking on an online ticket and going to the ‘Extras’ section.
For cancellations and full terms, see our Cancellation Policy and Terms and Conditions. Or contact us.