Welcome To Dunedin!
How Do I Book The Taieri Gorge or Other Scenic Train Trips?
If you're arriving in Dunedin by cruise ship, there are two ways to book a train journey with Dunedin Railways:
1. Book through your cruise provider
Many cruises offer privately chartered Taieri Gorge Train experiences. These typically include return transfers from Port Chalmers, a five-hour return journey through the spectacular Taieri Gorge, and lunch onboard.
2. Book a public train scenic trip directly with us
If you're booking one of our public departures — including the Taieri Gorge trip — you'll need to make your own way to the Dunedin Railway Station. We strongly recommend arranging transport in advance to ensure a smooth connection between your ship and our departure point.
You can book tickets directly with us online or in person from the Dunedin Railway Station Bookings Office (subject to availability).
If you’re unsure about your ship’s docking times, shore excursion options, or transfer arrangements, please check directly with your cruise provider.
How Do I Get To The Dunedin Railway Station?
The Dunedin Railway Station is located on Anzac Avenue in the heart of Centra Dunedin, 13.4km from Port Chalmers - where most ships dock.
Dunedin is known for being easy to get around and is often called the “15-minute city.” Whether you're walking, taking public transport, cycling, or driving, you’ll find that everything is close by. Transport options include taxis, buses, e-scooters, cycle hire, and rental cars.
Cruise Shuttle
Most cruise providers offer direct shuttle buses between the cruise terminal and Dunedin city. Please talk with your cruise provider for more information.
By Taxi
From Port, a taxi to the Dunedin Railway Station takes 15-30 minutes (depending on traffic). Local taxi companies include:
- Dunedin Taxis: 03 477 7777
- City Taxis: 03 477 1771
By Bus
Orbus is the public bus transport system in Dunedin and offers regular services around Dunedin. Click here for more information about bus routes.
Walking Directions From The Octagon/Dunedin Central
The Railway Station is just 500m from the Octagon – less than a 5-minute walk.
Directions: Head down Stuart Street and cross State Highway 1 to reach the station.
Please contact the Dunedin Visitor Centre if you need more information about getting around Dunedin: [email protected] | +64 3 474 3300
What Do I Need To Bring?
Before you arrive, please download or print your ticket and present it at the ticketing desk before boarding your train. We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and flat shoes. All carriages have air conditioning/heating for passenger comfort. If you are planning to disembark, we recommend preparing for the unpredictable weather in New Zealand by bringing warm layers and waterproof gear.
Is The Train Mobility and Wheelchair Friendly?
Yes. The Dunedin Railway Station features a mobility-accessible ramp that leads directly into the main foyer. From there, passengers can access the platform or visit our Bookings Office, located beside the foyer stairwell.
To assist with boarding and disembarking, ramps are available at the Dunedin Railway Station and at most destinations along our routes.
We also have one wheelchair-accessible carriage equipped with a lift. Please note that availability is limited, and this carriage is not offered on all services. The lift can accommodate wheelchairs up to 900mm long, 700mm wide, and weighing up to 200kg.
If you require wheelchair access, please email us at least 3 business days before your intended departure and prior to booking: [email protected]
What Facilities Are Onboard?
All of our train services have toilets on every carriage, panoramic windows and air conditioning/heating for passenger comfort.
Most of our services also have a café onboard where you can purchase food and drinks. The team from Precinct create seasonal, locally made food — perfect for enjoying as the scenery rolls by. The café menu (subject to change) is available from the info drop-down tab.
Can I Store Luggage and/or Prams Onboard?
Storage space onboard our trains is limited, so we prioritise luggage storage for one-way passengers only. If you’re planning to travel one-way and require space for luggage or prams, please contact us before you book and at least 72 hours prior to departure:
Please note: there are no storage facilities at the Dunedin Railway Station. If you’re travelling on a return trip, luggage can be stored at the public convenience centre on Municipal Lane, just beside the Dunedin iSITE (you’ll find it on the map above).
Have any further questions? We're happy to help!
[email protected] | 022 436 9074