Step back in time and relive the golden era of train travel with The Southerner, a nostalgic rail journey returning for four unforgettable days - 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th of May 2025.
Check out our overnight and 3 day package options below, or use this form to begin the booking process of train tickets.
Travelling return daily between Christchurch and Dunedin, tracing the historic route once known for its journey to Invercargill. This unique experience offers two distinct options: Scenic Class for a comfortable ride through some of New Zealand's most stunning landscapes, or Scenic Plus, which elevates the journey with a premium carriage and dining.
With limited seats available, don't miss this rare opportunity to immerse yourself in history, heritage, and Scottish charm on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Enhance your experience with an exclusive package. Choose from:
- The Southerner Heritage Experience - discover Larnach Castle
- The Southerner and Taieri Gorge Rail Experience - an exclusive Rail experience into the Taieri Gorge
- Dunedin Overnight Escape - an overnight discovery of Dunedin city
The Southerner Heritage Experience - Three Day Package
Your journey begins with a scenic journey aboard The Southerner, where you'll travel from Christchurch to Dunedin, soaking up the picturesque views along the way.
Enjoy two nights stay in a hotel, a City Highlights Tour, as well as optional shopping time in the city centre.
Discover Larnach Castle with a guided tour, and treat yourself to high tea. Head north again as you board The Southerner, with unforgettable memories from this exquisite getaway.
Travel in Scenic Class, or indulge in Scenic Plus.
Inclusions:
The Taieri Gorge Experience - Three Day Package
Embark on a Rail escape like no other. Begin with a scenic journey aboard The Southerner, travelling from Christchurch to Dunedin and soaking up the stunning landscapes along the way.
Once in Dunedin, enjoy two nights at a charming city hotel, and get ready for a day of adventure aboard the famous Taieri Gorge Railway.
Return north aboard The Southerner, carrying memories of a truly exceptional getaway.
Travel in Scenic Class, or indulge in Scenic Plus.
Inclusions:
- Return journey on The Southerner in Scenic Class or Scenic Plus
- Transfers within Dunedin
- Two nights' stay in Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
- 5-hour return journey aboard the iconic Taieri Gorge Railway
Dunedin Overnight Escape - Two Day Package
Set off on a picturesque journey aboard The Southerner from Christchurch to Dunedin, soaking in stunning landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, unwind in a charming Dunedin hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening in this city steeped in history. The next day, embark on a guided city tour to explore Dunedin's iconic sights, including Baldwin Street, the Botanical Gardens, and the Octagon.
Return to Dunedin Train Station to board The Southerner for your return journey.
Travel in Scenic Class, or indulge in Scenic Plus.
Highlights:
- Return Scenic journey aboard The Southerner from Christchurch to Dunedin in Scenic Class or Scenic Plus
- One-night stay at a charming Dunedin hotel
- Guided city tour, including Baldwin Street, the Botanical Gardens, and the Octagon
The Journey
Travel through stunning landscapes, from the expansive Canterbury Plains to the rugged Otago coastline, with breath-taking views of the Southern Alps and Pacific Ocean. Pass through charming towns like Timaru and Oamaru, rich in history.
Choose between Scenic Class for comfort or indulge in Scenic Plus, with premium dining and luxurious carriage options.
This limited-time experience is a chance to step back in time and rediscover the magic of this scenic route. With limited seats in high demand, don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
The History
The Southerner was a premier passenger express train that once connected Christchurch and Invercargill via Dunedin, travelling along the iconic Main South Line. Operating from December 1, 1970, to February 10, 2002, it became a symbol of rail travel in New Zealand's South Island.
The Southerner was renowned for offering a comfortable and scenic journey, making Invercargill the southernmost passenger station in the world. Its legacy as one of New Zealand's most beloved train services endures, and now, it's returning to offer a new generation the chance to experience this historic route once again – although this time, only as far as Dunedin.
Image credit: Ian Robson
Available Departures
The Southerner departs on the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th of May 2025, travelling daily from Christchurch to Dunedin return. You can book this service one way, or return in Scenic Class, or Scenic Plus. To reserve your spot, choose your service, click the 'ENQUIRE' button, select your chosen dates and submit the online form. Alternatively, call us on 0800 872 467.
Please note, the May 17th departure will begin with a bus from Christchurch to Rolleston, before boarding The Southerner, due to track repairs on the line.
Start Christchurch
May 2025
Return
Scenic Class
Via Dunedin
Finish Christchurch
May 2025
NZ$
498
per person
Start Christchurch
May 2025
Return
Scenic Plus
Via Dunedin
Finish Christchurch
May 2025
NZ$
998
per person
Important Information
Things to do in Dunedin
Ōtepoti Dunedin is a region of unique and beautiful landscapes, wildlife and fascinating cultural history.
Larnach Castle
New Zealand's only castle is an important and much-loved piece of Dunedin history.
Iconic City Tour
Iconic Tours will show you all around Dunedin City on this 3.5 hour sightseeing tour.
Royal Albatross Centre - Wildlife Tours
Enjoy an introduction of the Northern Royal Albatross, your guide will take you through the bird’s fascinating story.
Things to do in Christchurch
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, Christchurch is a city of melting cultures and earthquake history. It is also home to the Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine train journeys.
Punting on the Avon
Explore the Avon River aboard a flat-bottomed boat.
Historic Tram City Tour
Jump aboard a restored heritage tram and explore Christchurch City while listening to insightful commentary.
Explore the Garden City
From unique architecture to world-class dining, adventure sports to relaxing affairs - there is easily something to enjoy in this innovative city.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know you'll have questions, you may find your answers below.
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Scenic Class for a comfortable and relaxed experience.
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Scenic Plus for a premium experience, including luxurious carriages, gourmet dining, and exclusive service.
For The Southerner, train journey only, we are currently taking expressions of interest. You can book now! Complete this form will be contacted by our team to secure your booking.
To secure your space immediately, we recommend booking one of the three available packages.
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer a return daily service to Invercargill at this time due to the length of the journey and the necessary upgrades to the Invercargill station before it can accommodate passenger services.
The Southerner will operate on the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th of May 2025.
The journey includes a scenic train ride from Christchurch to Dunedin, passing through breathtaking landscapes and historic towns. Passengers can choose from Scenic Class or Scenic Plus, with Scenic Plus offering premium dining and a more luxurious carriage experience.
The entire journey from Christchurch to Dunedin takes approximately 6-7 hours, with scheduled stops along the way.
Yes! We offer an overnight package in Dunedin, including accommodation and activities to enhance your experience.
The journey offers spectacular views of the Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps, Otago coastline, and the Pacific Ocean. You'll also pass through historic towns like Timaru and Oamaru, and enjoy scenic highlights like the rugged cliffs of Shag Point and the beauty of Blueskin Bay.
You can enquire to book now. Fill in this form if you'd like to do so. Our team will be in touch to finalise your booking. Be sure to act quickly, as seats for this limited-time journey are in high demand.
We offer two classes of travel:
In Scenic Class, refreshments are available for purchase at our on board café.
In Scenic Plus, a delicious dining experience is included, featuring gourmet meals and beverages.
The Southerner is suitable for passengers of all ages. However, we recommend the journey for those who are comfortable with train travel over several hours. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
The Southerner will run a return service each day between Christchurch and Dunedin.
Seats for The Southerner are limited, so be sure to complete the booking form to be first in.