What's Happening?
Great Journeys New Zealand has announced the return of The Southerner, a historic rail journey connecting Christchurch and Dunedin, with departures scheduled for May 2026. This revival follows successful sell-out runs in 2024 and 2025. The Southerner will
offer daily return trips on four specific dates in May, with additional dates to be announced. The service provides various travel options, including the Scenic class and the award-winning Scenic Plus service, featuring spacious carriages and premium seating. The onboard amenities include a cafe and licensed bar serving local beverages and meals. The journey, originally introduced in the 1970s, is renowned for its scenic views of coastlines and southern landscapes. The revival aims to cater to the growing demand for unique and meaningful travel experiences.
Why It's Important?
The revival of The Southerner is significant as it taps into the increasing global trend of slow and scenic travel, offering an alternative to road travel between southern cities in New Zealand. This move is expected to boost tourism in the region, providing economic benefits to local businesses and attractions. The service not only enhances the travel experience with its premium offerings but also promotes sustainable tourism by encouraging rail travel. The initiative aligns with the growing consumer preference for heritage-rich and meaningful travel experiences, potentially attracting both domestic and international tourists.
What's Next?
Bookings for The Southerner's May 2026 departures are now open, with limited seats available. Additional dates are expected to be announced soon, providing more opportunities for travelers to experience this iconic journey. The service will also offer multi-day packages, including the new Seasider Express & Castle Escape Package, which combines rail travel with local dining and cultural experiences. As demand for such travel experiences grows, Great Journeys New Zealand may continue to expand its offerings, potentially introducing more routes or enhancing existing services to cater to the evolving preferences of travelers.
