THE MAINLANDER
Departing Christchurch
Christchurch to Dunedin
Departing the garden city of Christchurch, we cross the mighty braided Rakaia River through the agriculture centre of Ashburton where the regimented neatness of mixed cropping and sheep grazing holdings form patchwork quilt patterns across the vast expanse of the Canterbury Plains.
Continue further South towards the rugged Otago coastline, tasking in views of the majestic Southern Alps on one side and the deep blue Pacific Ocean on the other.
Highlights include passing through Timaru where the railway line hugs the cliff face at the rear of Caroline Bay and crossing the Waitaki River through the charming historic limestone architecture of Oamaru, an area also renowned for the penguin colonies and Moeraki boulders further south.
Onward along the Pacific Coast to historic Dunedin home of New Zealand’s famous Dunedin Railway Station, Taieri Gorge Railway, Larnach Castle, Albatross Tours and so much more.
Schedule:
Christchurch to Dunedin on Tuesday 20th January 2026 - Departing Addington at 9:00am Arriving in Dunedin at 4:20pm.
Dunedin to Christchurch on Friday 23rd January 2026 - Departing Dunedin at 8:00am Arriving in Christchchurch at 3:15pm.
Ticket Only Price Christchurch to Dunedin
One Way $149 per person
Return $298 per person
4 Day Package (3 nights)
Includes:
Return Train Trip on The Mainlander (Christchurch-Dunedin-Chirstchurch)
Distinction Hotel for x3 nights including breakfast
Package Price $999 per person sharing
4 Day Package (3 nights) - Including Taieri Gorge
Includes:
Return Train Trip on The Mainlander (Christchurch-Dunedin-Chirstchurch)
Distinction Hotel for x3 nights including breakfast
Taieri Gorge Train Excursion on 22nd January
Package Price $1149 per person sharing
Christchurch to Invercargill
Departing the garden city of Christchurch, we cross the mighty braided Rakaia River through the agriculture centre of Ashburton where the regimented neatness of mixed cropping and sheep grazing holdings form patchwork quilt patterns across the vast expanse of the Canterbury Plains.
Continue further South towards the rugged Otago coastline, tasking in views of the majestic Southern Alps on one side and the deep blue Pacific Ocean on the other.
Highlights include passing through Timaru where the railway line hugs the cliff face at the rear of Caroline Bay and crossing the Waitaki River through the charming historic limestone architecture of Oamaru, an area also renowned for the penguin colonies and Moeraki boulders further south.
Onward along the Pacific Coast to historic Dunedin home of New Zealand’s famous Dunedin Railway Station, Taieri Gorge Railway, Larnach Castle, Albatross Tours and so much more.
Departing the historic city of Dunedin, we climb gently through the southern suburbs emerging into wide rural landscapes.
Hugging the shores of tranquil Lake Waihola, one of the largest lowland lakes in Otago, we travel through rolling farmland and small country settlements that reflect the character of the region.
Approaching Balclutha, the line crosses the great Clutha River (Matau-Au) – our only crossing of this mighty waterway. Here the river famously divides into two large branches, the Koau (Southern) and Matau (Northern), forming the fertile Inch Clutha Island.
From Balclutha, the journey continues south through open countryside toward Gore, the proud country music capital of New Zealand. Following parts of the Mataura River valley, renowned for exceptional trout fishing, we begin to sense the subtle but significant shift as we cross from Otago into Southland, where the landscapes broaden and the skies seem to stretch endlessly.
Entering Murihiku (Southland), known for its rich soils and agricultural heritage, we traverse a region shaped by rivers, plains, and wide southern horizons.
Our destination is WaihÅpai (Invercargill) – New Zealand’s southernmost city and the vibrant heart of Southland. Here you can explore grand heritage buildings, wander the magnificent Queens Park, and immerse yourself in the city’s passion for classic motoring – from Burt Munro’s legendary Indian Scout at E Hayes to the world-class collections at Bill Richardson Transport World and Classic Motorcycle Mecca.
Also well known for seafood and as the gateway to Stewart Island, Invercargill is where urban charm meets wild beauty, and southern hospitality shines at every turn.
Schedule:
Christchurch to Dunedin on Tuesday 20th January 2026 - Departing Addington at 9:00am Arriving in Dunedin at 4:20pm.
Dunedin to Invercargill on Wednesday 21st January 2026 - Departing Dunedin at 10:00am Arriving in Invercargill at 3:00pm.
Invercargill to Dunedin on Thursday 22nd January 2026 - Departing Invercargill at 12:50pm Arriving in Dunedin at 6:00pm.
Dunedin to Christchurch on Friday 23rd January 2026 - Departing Dunedin at 8:00am Arriving in Christchchurch at 3:15pm.
Ticket Only Prices
Christchurch - Invercargill
One Way $229 per person
Return $449 per person
4 Day Package (3 nights)
Includes:
Return Train Trip on The Mainlander (Christchurch-Dunedin-Invercargill-Dunedin- Christchurch)
Distinction Hotel for x3 nights including breakfast (2 nights in Dunedin and 1 night in Invercargill)
Package Price $1299 per person sharing
Luggage:
- Passengers are limited to one piece of luggage weighing no more than 15kg.
Mobility:
- Due to the nature of our carriages, wheelchair and mobility scooters access is not available at this time.
- We can carry lightweight mobility devices that fold/compact down (like walkers).
Special Notes:
- Snacks and assorted beverages are available for purchase from your onboard hosts.
- Please wear suitable footwear. We recommend guests wear closed, flat, comfortable shoes.
- Bathroom facilities are available on board.
- Children under 14 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
- Prepare for various weather conditions. New Zealand’s climate can change quickly.
- Carriage seating may be pre-allocated. If you would like to be seated with friends or family that are not included on your booking Eg; they have booked separately, then please contact us bookings@pounamutourismgroup.com.
