Key Takeaways
- Long-distance passenger rail is set to return to the South Island, with a train connecting Christchurch, Dunedin, and Invercargill.
- The Mainlander train service will operate monthly from January 20, with hopes for more frequent services in the future.
- The service will create a "multi-directional loop around the South Island", benefiting both locals and tourists.
- The new initiative is expected to bring economic benefits to the region, including job creation and increased tourism.
- Tickets for the new service are already available, with prices starting from $229 for a one-way trip from Christchurch to Dunedin.
Introduction to the New Rail Service
The South Island is set to welcome back long-distance passenger rail, with the introduction of The Mainlander train service. This new initiative will connect Christchurch, Dunedin, and Invercargill, providing a convenient and scenic way for locals and tourists to travel between these major centers. The Mainlander is expected to run monthly from January 20, with the first train taking four days to complete the journey, including overnight stops in Dunedin and Invercargill. The service will be operated by the privately-owned Rail and Tourism Group, which aims to create a "multi-directional loop around the South Island" that will benefit both locals and tourists.
Benefits for Locals and Tourists
The new rail service is expected to bring numerous benefits to the region, including job creation and increased tourism. The mayors of Dunedin, Christchurch, and Invercargill have all welcomed the announcement, citing the economic benefits it will bring to their cities. Dunedin Mayor Sophie Barker noted that the announcement of The Mainlander is a "huge win" for Dunedin, and that the city is already seeing economic benefits from the restoration and preparation of the carriages at KiwiRail’s Hillside Workshop. Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger also expressed his support for the initiative, stating that it will be "fantastic" for the city, attracting more visitors and boosting the local economy.
Economic Benefits and Job Creation
The new rail service is expected to create a significant number of jobs, both directly and indirectly. The restoration and preparation of the carriages at KiwiRail’s Hillside Workshop in Dunedin is already supporting skilled engineering jobs in the city. Additionally, the service is expected to attract tourists, who will spend money in the local economy, supporting businesses and creating new job opportunities. Invercargill Mayor Tom Campbell noted that the experience of traveling by train is a unique one, and that it will be great to see it return to the South Island. The economic benefits of the new service are expected to be significant, with the mayors of the three cities all expressing their support for the initiative.
Ticket Prices and Service Schedule
Tickets for The Mainlander are already available, with prices starting from $229 for a one-way trip from Christchurch to Dunedin. The full return journey will cost $449. The service will initially operate on a monthly basis, with the first train departing on January 20. Future services are expected to follow a regular pattern, departing on Fridays and returning on Sundays. The Rail and Tourism Group will release more monthly dates soon, allowing passengers to plan their trips in advance. With its scenic route and convenient schedule, The Mainlander is expected to be a popular option for both locals and tourists.
Conclusion and Future Plans
The introduction of The Mainlander train service is a significant step forward for the South Island, providing a convenient and scenic way for locals and tourists to travel between major centers. The service is expected to bring numerous economic benefits, including job creation and increased tourism. With its unique experience and convenient schedule, The Mainlander is expected to be a popular option for travelers. As the service continues to develop, it is likely that we will see more frequent departures and additional amenities, making it an even more attractive option for those looking to explore the South Island. With the support of the mayors of Dunedin, Christchurch, and Invercargill, The Mainlander is set to be a success, and a valuable addition to the region’s transportation network.
