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In a triumphant return that evokes the golden age of rail travel, the iconic Taieri Gorge Scenic Train is once again steaming through the rugged heartlands of New Zealand’s South Island. Following a pandemic-induced hiatus, the historic experience is officially back on track and proudly represented by the New Zealand Travel Collective, a move hailed as a turning point for Dunedin’s tourism revival.

Led by seasoned travel strategist Trish May, the New Zealand Travel Collective spearheads a renewed global trade push for the legendary journey. “This is more than a train ride,” said May. “It’s a deeply authentic experience that defines the character and charm of Dunedin and Otago. I’m honoured to reintroduce this heritage gem to the global travel trade.”

After a successful sales mission across the United Kingdom and Europe, the reinvigorated product prepares for centre stage at the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand (TECNZ) trade event and the upcoming TRENZ 2025, New Zealand’s flagship international travel showcase.

The rail journey—often described as one of the world’s most scenic train rides—departs from the majestic Dunedin Railway Station, a Renaissance Revival masterpiece, before embarking on a dramatic westward route. The journey cuts through the Taieri Gorge, a natural marvel carved through ancient schist landscapes, passing soaring viaducts, sheer cliffs, and meandering rivers before reaching the remote siding of Pukerangi, where the train reverses its course.

What sets this excursion apart is not only the scenery but the storytelling. Passengers are treated to engaging live commentary from local guides who breathe life into the region’s rich rail heritage and frontier past. The commentary, paired with the evocative sounds of the vintage carriages, creates a transportive experience that resonates with nostalgia and discovery.

Trish May emphasized that the relaunch strategy has been meticulous and collaborative: “In close coordination with the General Manager, we’ve built a trade-forward approach that positions the Taieri Gorge journey as a must-have product for both inbound operators and FIT travellers. The enthusiasm we’ve seen internationally proves there’s a hunger for authentic, small-scale, boutique experiences like this.”

The Taieri Gorge Scenic Train’s resurgence comes at a time when travellers increasingly seek out heritage experiences that connect them with a place’s soul. With its blend of nature, history, and engineering, this rail journey offers a quintessential New Zealand moment—one that lingers long after the final whistle blows.

For global travel sellers and domestic adventurers alike, the return of this railway is a welcome reconnection to a timeless journey—and a shining beacon of New Zealand’s post-pandemic tourism resurgence.

📍 Discover more or book a trade partnership: 👉 www.newzealandtravelcollective.com/taieri-gorge-train.