Otago Locals’ Special Rates
See your backyard from a whole new angle.
Locals’ Rates for Otago Residents
Explore Otago’s rail journeys at special locals’ rates — exclusively for residents who pay Otago Regional Council rates.
Whether you’re showing visiting friends around or rediscovering your own backyard, there’s never been a better time to hop aboard.
When you purchase a local’s ticket, you will have to confirm that you are an Otago resident and you can provide proof at check-in. When you check-in, bring something along that shows your Otago address. This includes:
- A household bill with a Dunedin/Otago address
- An Otago Regional Council or Dunedin Library card
- An Otago University or Otago Polytechnic student/staff ID
- A New Zealand driver’s licence with a Dunedin or Otago address
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Who qualifies:
A locals’ ticket includes a special rate for all Otago residents. This includes:
- Dunedin City
- Waitaki District
- Clutha District
- Central Otago
- Queenstown-Lakes District
If you buy a local’s ticket, you will need to show proof of residence.
How to book:
- Click on the ‘Book Now’ button on the locals’ ticket page and select your preferred journey
- Or, visit our booking office at Dunedin Railway Station
- Bring proof of address during check-in
Local FAQ
Anyone who lives in Otago Regional Council districts. Proof of address is required when you check-in.
The local fare applies to residents only, but your guests are welcome to travel with you at the standard fare. To book, simply make two separate bookings — one for local fares using the button on this page, and another for standard fares via any other journey page. Alternatively, give us a call and we can arrange everything for you in one booking.
Locals’ fares are available on all our standard journeys, including select seasonal trains when seats are available. Special and event trains do not apply.
When booking online, simply click the ‘Book Now’ button on the local’s page and then select your preferred journey. Remember to bring proof of address to the ticket desk at check-on.
Yes — please bring your digital ticket (on your device or printed) and proof of address (e.g., a recent bill) to verify eligibility.
Storage space onboard is limited and prioritised for one-way passengers. To request storage, please email [email protected] before booking and at least 72 hours before departure.
Mobility Access
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 250kg.
If you require wheelchair access, please email us at least 3 business days before your intended departure and prior to booking: [email protected]
Explore Our Journeys
Rediscover your region by rail — from the iconic history of the Taieri Gorge to the local hidden gems of the Seasider and beyond.
