THE MAINLANDER

Dunedin to Invercargill

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 Waihōpai (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:

Departing Dunedin to Invercargill on Wednesday 21st January 2026 - Train Departs Dunedin 10:00am and Arrives Invercargill 3:00pm.

Returning Invercargill to Dunedin on Thursday 22nd January 2026 - Train Departs Invercargill 12:50pm Arrives Dunedin 6:00pm.

Ticket Only Prices

One Way $129 per person

Return $249 per person

2 Day Return Package (1 night)

Includes:

Return Train Trip on The Mainlander (Dunedin-Invercargill-Dunedin)

Distinction Hotel for x1 night including breakfast

Coach transfer from train to Distinction Hotel Invercargill

Package Price $599 per person sharing



Dunedin to Christchurch

Departing the historic city of Dunedin home of New Zealand’s famous Dunedin Railway Station, Taieri Gorge Railway, Larnach Castle, Albatross Tours and so much more, we head north along the Pacific Coast towards the Moeraki Boulders and penguin colonies and pass through the charming historic town of Oamaru renowned for the historic limestone buildings and architecture.

Crossing the Waitaki River to Caroline Bay where the railway line hugs the cliff face at the rear when passing through Timaru. Continue further North 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.

Onward to the vast expanse of the Canterbury Plains where the regimented neatness of mixed cropping and sheep grazing holdings form patchwork quilt patterns as far as the eye can see before arriving at the agriculture centre of Ashburton where we cross the mighty braided Rakaia River towards our arrival at the garden city of Christchurch.

Schedule:

Departing Dunedin to Christchurch on Friday 23rd January 2026 - Train Departs 8:00am and arrives 3:15pm

Ticket Only Prices

One way $149 per person