Rail & Stay Packages
Relaxed southern rail journey with 3 nights accommodation included.
Rail & Stay Packages
6 selected departures | July to September 2026
Travel south on The Mainlander and enjoy a 3-night getaway with rail travel and accommodation included. Designed for travellers wanting a simple and memorable way to experience the journey, these packages combine scenic rail travel with time to enjoy Dunedin and the south at a more relaxed pace.
From NZ $1,025.50 per person twin share
Why Choose a Rail & Stay Package:
- A scenic southern rail getaway on The Mainlander
- 3 nights accommodation at Dunedin Leisure Lodge – A Distinction Hotel
- Package options from Christchurch and Timaru
- Selected excusions including Dunedin, Invercargill, and Taieri Gorge
- A relaxed and memorable way to experience the south
2026 Departure Weekends
Choose from six selected winter departures and plan the package that suits you best.
- 3 - 6 July 2026
- 24 - 27 July 2026
- 31 July - 3 August 2026
- 7 - 10 August 2026
- 11 - 14 September 2026
- 18 - 21 September 2026
Package Options
Choose from four rail and accommodation packages, with return departures from Christchurch or Timaru.
Christchurch → Dunedin (return)
A classic 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
Single: NZ $1,546
Twin Share: NZ $1,025.50 per person
Christchurch → Dunedin + Taieri Gorge (return)
A step up from the standard getaway, this package combines the charm of The Mainlander with the added experience of the Taieri Gorge. It is a great option for travellers wanting more than just a rail trip and hotel stay, giving you the chance to enjoy another iconic southern rail experience while making the most of your time in Dunedin. Scenic, easy, and packed with a little more to remember.
3 nights accommodation included
Single: NZ $1,746
Twin Share: NZ $1,125.50 per person
Christchurch → Dunedin + Invercargill (return)
For those wanting to experience more of the journey, this package takes you deeper into the south. Travel from Christchurch to Dunedin, then continue on the Saturday journey through Gore and Invercargill before returning to Dunedin for your final nights stay. It is a fuller Mainlander experience, perfect for travellers who want to see more, travel further, and enjoy the south by rail in a way that feels both comfortable and memorable.
3 nights accommodation included
Single: NZ $1,646
Twin Share: NZ $1,125.50 per person
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, 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.
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 Southern Rail & Coach Tour takes you even further. Starting in Christchurch, this 8-day journey combines almost 600km of rail with handpicked accommodation, guided coach touring, and some of the South Island’s most iconic places including Invercargill, Te Anau, Queenstown and Doubtful Sound. It is a great option for travellers wanting more time, more scenery, and a broader South Island experience.
