Rail enthusiasts will have the chance to ride one of New Zealand’s much-loved scenic rail routes, which is returning for a select number of dates.
The Southerner was a premier passenger express train that once connected Christchurch and Invercargill via Dunedin, travelling along the Main South Line.
Operating from December 1, 1970, to February 10, 2002, it became a symbol of rail travel in New Zealand’s South Island and was renowned for offering a comfortable and scenic journey, making Invercargill the southernmost passenger station in the world.
Its legacy as one of New Zealand’s most beloved train services endures and is being reprised for a one-off tourism event in 2025.
Tracey Goodall, Executive General Manager, Passenger of KiwiRail, said the revived rail route has been immensely popular.
“We’re excited by the strong interest in ‘The Southerner Returns’, which ignites nostalgia and happy memories for many New Zealanders,” said Goodall.
“These experiences pay homage to the original passenger train.”
