All Aboard! Starting Your Rail Trail Adventure with the Taieri Gorge Train

If you’re looking for a truly memorable way to kick off your Otago Central Rail Trail experience, it’s hard to beat rolling into your ride aboard the iconic Taieri Gorge train. Departing from Dunedin and winding through some of the South Island’s most dramatic inland scenery, this heritage rail journey is the perfect prelude to the adventure that lies ahead.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Taieri Gorge train and why it’s a must for lovers of scenery, storytelling, and a touch of old-world travel charm.

The Journey: Dunedin to Pukerangi

The Taieri Gorge Railway departs by 9:30am from Dunedin’s historic railway station (a must-see in itself) and winds its way inland along the old Otago Central Railway line - the very same route the Rail Trail now follows from Middlemarch

You’ll travel through tunnels and over viaducts, past sheer cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and deep gorges, with commentary sharing the fascinating stories behind the engineering feats and gold rush history of the region. It's like stepping back in time (with better snacks).

The one-way journey takes around two hours, and you’ll arrive in Pukerangi to board your shuttle for the 20 minute drive to Middlemarch, where your Rail Trail adventure officially begins.

Why Start Your Trip This Way?

A true "rails to trails" experience: The Otago Central Rail Trail exists because of this railway. Taking the train lets you relive the original journey before hopping on your bike to ride the same route - just a little slower and with more coffee stops. You'll discover stunning scenery you won’t see any other way - parts of the Taieri Gorge are only accessible by rail. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime landscape, and the best seat in the house is right there by the train window. Just sit back, soak in the views, and let the rhythm of the rails ease you into holiday mode.

Things to Know

The Taieri Gorge train doesn’t run every day, so if it’s on your wishlist (and we totally get why!), let us know early we’ll help plan your itinerary around it. Because you won't arrive in Middlemarch until around midday, and you’ll want to allow 30–45 minutes for check-in and bike fitting, this option works best for a four- or five-day ride. If you're planning a three-day adventure, we recommend travelling up the day before and spending the night in Middlemarch, so you can hit the trail bright-eyed and ready to roll the next morning.

The Journey: Pukerangi to Dunedin

The shuttle departs Middlemarch at 10:45am for the short 20-minute journey to Pukerangi Station, where the Taieri Gorge train leaves for Dunedin by 11:30am. Check-in closes at 10:30am sharp, so sadly, there just isn’t enough time to ride in from Hyde or Waipiata that morning and still catch the train. If you'd like to include this beautiful rail journey back to Dunedin, we recommend either skipping the ride on your final morning or treating yourself to an extra night in Middlemarch - a relaxed way to end your adventure on a high note.

Why End Your Trip This Way?

There’s no better way to wrap up your Otago Central Rail Trail adventure than by climbing aboard the historic Taieri Gorge train for the scenic ride back to Dunedin. After days of biking through big skies and wide-open landscapes, this iconic rail journey offers the perfect change of pace - all sweeping views, towering viaducts, and deep river gorges, with a touch of old-world charm. It’s a chance to sit back, relax, and let someone else do the work while you reflect on the ride, enjoy a snack, and take in scenery you can’t see any other way. A fitting grand finale to an unforgettable trip.

How We Make It Easy

At Big Sky Bike Adventures, we’re experts at adding a little extra magic to your Rail Trail adventure - including a ride on the glorious Taieri Gorge train. We’ll plan your route, sort your transport, wrangle your luggage, and make sure your bike is waiting when (and where) you need it. All you have to do is say, “Yes please, I’d like the train!” and we’ll take care of the rest, right down to the last carriage.

Ready to Ride the Rails?

The Taieri Gorge train is a spectacular and stress-free way to begin or end your journey. Get in touch with our team today, and let’s build your perfect, personalised Rail Trail itinerary - trains, tunnels, trails and all.