Commuter trains could be running between Rangiora, Rolleston and central Christchurch by mid 2027, following a government announcement of financial support for a passenger rail trial.

Rail Minister Winston Peters and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones have announced a $3.4 million loan from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support Mainland Rail’s plans for commuter services in Canterbury and regular passenger trains across the South Island.

The proposed 12-month trial would see trains operating during morning and evening commuter periods, connecting Rangiora and Rolleston with central Christchurch.

The journey from Rolleston is expected to take less than 20 minutes, compared with an estimated 50 minutes by road.

However, the commuter trial remains conditional on Christchurch, Selwyn and Waimakariri councils confirming their combined contribution towards half the costs.

Peters said the proposal would make better use of existing railway infrastructure.

“New Zealanders are sick of transport proposals costing hundreds of millions or billions when pragmatic solutions such as using what we already have are staring us in the face, as is the case in Christchurch and its rail system.”

Ticket prices have yet to be determined, although Peters said fares should be comparable with commuter rail services in Auckland and Wellington.

“There’s a saying, ‘it works in practice but will it work in theory,’ and here is an opportunity for Cantabrians to prove their support for rail as public transport in practice.”

Part of the funding will also help Mainland Rail expand its Mainlander passenger service from monthly excursions to a regular timetable connecting Christchurch, Ashburton, Timaru, Oamaru, Dunedin, Gore and Invercargill.

Regional Development Minister Shane Jones said the investment would benefit communities and businesses along the route.

“The South Island’s rail corridors are regional infrastructure assets, and this funding is about putting them back to work for communities, tourism and local economies.”

The announcement also follows earlier government funding towards restoring the historic Mataura Railway Station, which is expected to reopen in late 2027.

Mainland Rail will now begin planning discussions with local councils, rail regulator officials and KiwiRail.

The government said start dates would be confirmed once the necessary arrangements were completed.