Passenger rail is set to return to the South Island, with a new long-distance service reconnecting Christchurch, Dunedin and Invercargill for the first time in decades.

The Mainlander will run along the east coast, giving passengers a scenic alternative to long drives and offering a rare chance to see the South Island from a rail perspective.

The service is being delivered by New Zealand owned Rail and Tourism Group, the company behind Mainland Rail, which is also developing an Event Express Train to transport people from Rolleston and Rangiora into the new One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha on major event days.

Rail and Tourism Group chief executive Paul Jackson said the Event Express Train would move thousands of people directly into the central city, ease congestion, support businesses and act as a real world trial for a future commuter rail network for Greater Christchurch.

Jackson said the first series of Mainlander journeys will run over the January school holidays, from 20 to 23 January 2026. The timetable includes Christchurch to Dunedin on 20 January, Dunedin to Invercargill on 21 January, Invercargill to Dunedin on 22 January, and Dunedin to Christchurch on 23 January. Tickets and package options will include a local excursion through the Taieri Gorge.

The next set of monthly dates is expected to be released soon, with a regular pattern of Friday departures and Sunday returns planned.

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger said the return of long distance rail is a significant boost for the city and the wider region.

“This is great news for our city and a boost for public transport options across the South Island. The Mainlander will reconnect Christchurch with Dunedin and Invercargill in a way that brings both convenience and character back to regional travel.

“It’s about giving people choice, whether they are tourists wanting to experience our landscapes or locals who don’t want to use the road. This rail service puts Christchurch at the heart of a southern tourism circuit.”

Dunedin Mayor Sophie Barker said the service is a major win for the city.

“The public has been calling for more rail connections between the South Island’s main centres, and this is a significant step. A Christchurch to Dunedin rail experience earlier this year sold out quickly, showing strong demand.

“Visitors will now be able to travel down the east coast and arrive directly at one of the world’s most spectacular railway stations. Increased rail connectivity strengthens our position as a premier destination.”

Rebekah Jenkins, General Manager of Dunedin Railways, said The Mainlander marks an exciting new chapter.

“It highlights the growing appeal of heritage and scenic rail experiences, particularly the Taieri Gorge journey, with its rugged landscapes, hand carved tunnels and century old viaducts. Having this service come to Dunedin opens the door for more visitors to discover everything our region has to offer.”

Invercargill Mayor Tom Campbell also welcomed the news.

“Most of us remember the experience of travelling by train, the rhythm of the wheels and seeing familiar places from a different angle. It’s great to see that experience returning to the South.”

Great South tourism and events general manager Mark Frood said the service will connect communities and provide an alternative for local travel between southern centres.

Jackson said the reintroduction of long distance rail will strengthen transport links and support tourism, hospitality, events and the broader regional economy.

“We will continue to work with the major South Island cities to support regional rail and tourism opportunities.”