Rail service possible for major events
Ed Sheeran might Southerner’s saviour.
A move to reinstate the regular passenger rail service between Christchurch and Dunedin looks destined to fail, but a case is building to run the train for special events like the British popstar’s recent concerts in Dunedin.
In June, the Canterbury Mayoral Forum was pledged by who? MBIE, see next line of story$50,000 to look into reviving the Southerner, which stopped operating in 2002 after 42 years. The funding came after Timaru Mayor Damon Odey pitched for its return in 2016.
A business case was provided to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment in September, as required for the funding to be cleared. But as feasibility work has progressed, the cause has faltered.
Odey said the return of the Southerner was ‘‘highly unlikely’’ based on discussions with KiwiRail and officials from Government transport agencies. There was not enough demand for a regular service and buses between Christchurch and Dunedin were faster and cheaper.
‘‘The Canterbury Mayoral Forum is currently exploring options for an extension of KiwiRail’s tourism passenger services for example, passenger services to major events.’’
Odey said the forum was ‘‘keen to work with event promoters’’ to make sure they were aware of the services KiwiRail could provide.
Sheeran Easter gigs made the strongest case for such a bespoke service. About 21,000 extra cars were on the road between Dunedin yet be the and Christchurch over the long weekend, causing major delays. Rail could ease the burden on roads for similar major events, Odey said, offering a fun trip and improving road safety.
‘‘You can create a pretty cool visitor experience as part of your weekend away, travelling by train.’’
KiwiRail had given the impression they were open to someone to ‘‘take the ball and run with it’’, but did not want to own the service, Odey said.
KiwiRail currently runs two regular tourist services which leave from Christchurch, though the Coastal Pacific between Christchurch and Picton is currently out of action due to repairs for damage caused by the November 2016 earthquake.
A spokeswoman said KiwiRail was ‘‘always open to working with organisations who would like to charter a train’’.
Experts have previously said the service would be difficult to run at a profit and would likely target the high-end tourist market if it went ahead.