Great Journeys New Zealand is bringing back The Southerner, the much-loved rail journey reconnecting Christchurch and Dunedin and remembered by generations of Kiwis, with May 2026 departures.
Following sell-out revivals in 2024 and 2025, The Southerner offers daily, return special departures across four dates: 22, 23, 24 and 25 May 2026, with additional 2026 dates to be announced soon, giving international and domestic clients another opportunity to experience one of the country’s most storied rail routes in style.
Guests can choose from a range of travel options, including Scenic class and the award-winning Scenic Plus service, with spacious carriages, generous leg room, and premium seating designed for comfort. The onboard cafe and licensed bar serve local beverages, barista-made coffee and offers a variety of meals and snacks making the journey every bit as enjoyable as the destination. Travellers wishing to experience Dunedin can extend their experience with curated multi-day packages showcasing the culture and cuisine.
Originally introduced in the 1970s, The Southerner features the same sweeping coastlines, rolling hills and distinctive southern landscapes that made it a favourite for so many. Its modern revival brings that nostalgia into a new era of meaningful, slow, scenic travel.
“The Southerner holds a special place in Great Journeys New Zealand’s history, and we are proud to continue to create magical journeys for our passengers, both our domestic and international guests,” Great Journeys New Zealand head of product and customer experience Koszler said. “Demand for unique, meaningful travel experiences is growing fast, and The Southerner offers exactly that.”
“Being able to bring back more departures in May 2026 and beyond gives our travellers the chance to enjoy the comfort, premium service, and landscapes of the South Island that make rail such a unique way to travel Aotearoa.”
“Rail continues to grow as one of the most popular modes of transport for tourists globally, and with current access between southern cities being mostly by road, it allows for a slower, more scenic, and convenient option which turns a traveller’s commute into an unforgettable experience,” Dunedin Mayor Sophie Barker said.
“Travellers will come to Otepoti, cross the platform through one of the world’s most spectacular railway stations and arrive directly in the heart of Dunedin. They can then add on packages to experience our incredible half-day scenic train journeys, the Taieri Gorge and the Seasider, and spend the night here before their return trip.”
“Every year, the demand and excitement grow, and there’s a clear trend of visitors seeking meaningful, heritage-rich experiences,” Dunedin Railways general manager Rebekah Jenkins said. “Being able to complement The Southerner with both the Taieri Gorge and, for the first time, the Seasider gives travellers even more opportunities to experience the very best of Dunedin and Otago.”
Alongside train-only travel, agents can now choose from a refreshed range of multi-day Packages for their clients. The standout addition for 2026 is The Seasider Express & Castle Escape Package, a two-night adventure combining the Seasider rail journey with dinner at Arc Brewery and entry to Larnach Castle.
Also returning are popular overnight Dunedin packages, paired with local tours, dining experiences, and city attractions, as well as the Taieri Gorge Package, a perennial favourite for travellers wanting to extend their journey. Premium Scenic Plus service is also available across all departures, offering premium seating, hosted service and regionally inspired cuisine.
Bookings for The Southerner’s May 2026 departures are now open, with limited seats available. Additional dates to be announced soon.
