Mainlander Train 4 Day Tour

Discover New Zealand’s spectacular South Island on our Mainlander Train 4 Day Tour featuring scenic rail journeys, comfortable accommodation and unforgettable landscapes.

Travelling from Christchurch through Dunedin and on to Invercargill, the Mainlander opens up a wonderful stretch of New Zealand’s South Island by train, journeying south from Christchurch across the Canterbury Plains and through the landscapes of South Canterbury and Otago to Dunedin, before continuing into Southland and Invercargill.

Our Mainlander Train 4 Day Tour is a chance to experience this new scenic rail journey while enjoying some of the South Island’s most distinctive destinations along the way. With comfortable accommodation included and time to explore beyond the railway, the journey combines the pleasure of travelling by train with a relaxed short break.

From changing rural landscapes and dramatic stretches of coastline to the character of Dunedin and the deep south, it’s an easy and memorable way to discover a different side of New Zealand by rail.

Mainlander Train 4 Day Tour Highlights

• Experience the iconic Mainlander on a relaxing 3-night, 4-day South Island rail holiday

• Travel in comfort with return Mainlander rail journeys included in your package.

• Choose an unforgettable rail adventure with selected packages featuring the scenic Taieri Gorge Railway or a Southland day trip to Invercargill

• Enjoy a hassle-free getaway with your rail travel, accommodation and itinerary conveniently arranged in one package

Package Options

Travelling in winter? View our Mainlander Train Winter Tour.

For a detailed itinerary, departure details, and booking conditions for your Mainlander Train 4 Day Tour, please see below. Pricing is shown as per person.

Package Option 1 – Mainlander Rail & Stay
Christchurch → Dunedin (Return)

Package Option 2 – Mainlander Rail & Taieri Gorge
Christchurch → Dunedin (Return) + Taieri Gorge Day Trip

Package Option 3 – Mainlander Rail & Southland
Christchurch → Dunedin (Return) + Invercargill Day Trip

Enquire now or click here for alternate Short Breaks by Rail in New Zealand.

Mainlander Train 4 Day Tour – Optional Excursions

Each option is highly recommended to make the most of your Mainlander Train 4 Day Tour. Ask at the time of booking.

Christchurch Pre-Tour Package – Enhance your journey when arriving in Christchurch. Enjoy airport transfers, centrally located accommodation within distance of the train station, and a Christchurch Tram pass. Complete your stay by choosing one included attraction, such as the Christchurch Gondola, the Botanic Gardens, or another popular local experience.

Akaroa Day Tour – Visit the charming French settlement of Akaroa, enjoy panoramic harbour views, sample local cheeses at Barry’s Bay, and cruise the harbour in search of dolphins, penguins and seals.

TranzAlpine Train – Many would argue your journey is not complete without experiencing New Zealand’s premier rail trip. Add a day return ride to your tour from Christchurch once you have completed your Mainlander Train 4 Day Tour.

Contact us for a detailed itinerary depending on the package option you are most interested in.

For alternate South Island Mainlander tours all departing Christchurch, consider:
Mainlander Southern Rail and Coach 8 Day Tour or Mainlander Train Winter Tour