Summer 2026
Rail & Stay Packages
Relaxed southern rail journey with 3 nights accommodation included.
Rail & Stay Packages
9 selected departure weekends | October to December 2026
The Mainlander Summer Series is here, with a new run of 3-night rail and stay packages now available from October to December 2026.
After the Winter 2026 Mainlander release sold out, these new summer departure weekends give travellers another chance to experience the south by rail, with return train travel, Dunedin accommodation, and selected package options including Taieri Gorge or Invercargill.
Travel from Christchurch and settle into a relaxed long weekend, enjoy a slower, more memorable way to see the South Island.
From NZ $1,199 per person twin share
Why Choose a Rail & Stay Package?
- A relaxed 3-night / 4-day southern rail getaway on The Mainlander
- Return rail travel included as part of your selected package
- 3 nights accommodation at Dunedin Leisure Lodge (or similar 4-star hotel)
- Package options available from Christchurch
- Selected options include a Taieri Gorge train ride or a day trip to Invercargill by train
- Weekly Friday departures from October to December 2026
- A simple way to enjoy the journey, accommodation and itinerary in one package
2026 Summer Series Departure Weekends
Choose from six selected winter departures and plan the package that suits you best.
- 16 - 19 October 2026
- 23 - 26 October 2026
- 30 October - 2 November 2026
- 6 - 9 November 2026
- 13 - 16 November 2026
- 20 - 23 November 2026
- 27 - 30 November 2026
- 4 - 7 December 2026
Package Options
Choose from 3 rail and accommodation packages, with return departures from Christchurch or Timaru.
Christchurch → Dunedin (return)
A relaxed southern short break that keeps things simple and memorable. Travel south on The Mainlander, settle into Dunedin for three nights, and enjoy the freedom to explore one of the South Island’s most character-filled cities at your own pace. Ideal for travellers who want the rail experience, a comfortable stay, and a relaxed few days away without overcomplicating it.
3 nights accommodation included at Dunedin Leisure Lodge - A Distinction Hotel or similar.
Christchurch → Dunedin (return)
From NZ $1,199 per person twin share
From NZ $2,399 per couple
From NZ $1,749 for a single traveller
Christchurch → Dunedin + Taieri Gorge (return)
A great option for travellers wanting to make the rail journey the heart of the getaway. Travel from Christchurch to Dunedin on The Mainlander, enjoy three nights accommodation, and add the unforgettable Taieri Gorge experience while based in Dunedin.
3 nights accommodation included at Dunedin Leisure Lodge - A Distinction Hotel or similar.
From NZ $1,349 per person twin share
From NZ $2,699 per couple
From NZ $1,899 for a single traveller
Christchurch → Dunedin + Invercargill (return)
Travel from Christchurch to Dunedin on Friday, stay three nights in Dunedin, and continue further south on Sunday with a rail journey through Gore to Invercargill and back. This package gives you the chance to experience more of the lower South Island while still enjoying Dunedin as your base.
3 nights accommodation included at Dunedin Leisure Lodge - A Distinction Hotel or similar.
From NZ $1,349 per person twin share
From NZ $2,699 per couple
From NZ $1,899 for a single traveller
Your stay
What’s Included
RAIL JOURNEY
Travel on
The Mainlander as part of your selected package and enjoy one of the South Island’s great rail experiences. From Canterbury through Otago and into the deep south, this is a journey shaped by changing landscapes, a slower pace, and the simple pleasure of seeing more along the way.
ACCOMMODATION
Your package includes
3 nights accommodation at Dunedin Leisure Lodge - A Distinction Hotel (or similar), giving you a comfortable and well-placed base for your stay in Dunedin. With your accommodation already arranged, it is easier to settle in, relax, and enjoy the trip from the moment you arrive.
EXCURSIONS
Selected packages feature added experiences such as the
Taieri Gorge journey or the extended
Saturday rail trip through Gore and Invercargill, giving you the chance to see more of the south and enjoy a richer Mainlander experience.
The Mainlander
Step aboard The Mainlander and settle into a relaxed way to travel south. With comfortable seating, air-conditioned carriages, modern onboard facilities, and friendly hosts looking after you along the way, the experience is designed to be enjoyed at a slower pace.
Snacks and beverages are available to purchase onboard, and with the landscape unfolding outside your window, the journey becomes just as memorable as the places it takes you.
Frequently Asked Questions
A few helpful answers before you book your Mainlander package getaway.
What does the package include?
Each package includes rail travel on The Mainlander and 3 nights accommodation, with pricing based on the specific itinerary selected.
Is accommodation included in every package?
Yes. These package options include 3 nights accommodation as part of the overall fare.
Where will we stay?
Accommodation for the 3-night packages is at Dunedin Leisure Lodge – A Distinction Hotel (or similar).
What does twin share mean?
Twin share pricing is based on two people sharing a room, with the per person price shown accordingly.
Can I travel from Timaru instead of Christchurch?
Yes. Selected package options are available from Timaru as well as Christchurch.
Is the Taieri Gorge included in all packages?
No. The Taieri Gorge experience is included only in the package where it is specifically listed.
Is this better than booking tickets separately?
For many travellers, yes. The package option is designed for convenience, giving you rail travel and accommodation together in one simpler booking.
Can I just book the train instead?
Absolutely. If you would prefer to arrange your own stay, the Weekend Train Journeys option is available separately.
Looking to see more of the South Island?
If you want to turn your Mainlander getaway into something bigger, our 8-Day Southern Rail & Coach Tour takes you even further. Starting in Christchurch, this extended journey combines rail travel with handpicked accommodation, guided coach touring, and some of the South Island’s most iconic places including Invercargill, Te Anau, Queenstown and Doubtful Sound.
