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Crusaders, 2degrees and Mainland Rail team up to launch Crusaders Express to deliver fans in style to home games

24 Mar 2026

 

All aboard, Crusaders fans. The journey to match day is about to get seriously upgraded, with the launch of the “Crusaders Express”. 

 

A joint effort from the Crusaders, 2degrees and Mainland Rail: the Crusaders Express is a first‑class fan train from Rolleston and Rangiora Stations– giving supporters a unique, seamless way to roll into four blockbuster home games this season. 

 

Mainland Rail Managing Director Ian Ladd says the partnership is an important step toward demonstrating the potential of rail in Canterbury. 

 

“Working alongside the Crusaders brand and their passionate fans is a fantastic opportunity for us,” Ladd says. 

 

“Mainland Rail is committed to exploring commuter rail in Canterbury. Our long-term vision is to build additional rail services around major events at the new stadium and across the region. 

 

“The Crusaders fan train is a practical way to show how rail can move large numbers of people efficiently into the city. It’s a small step, but it demonstrates what commuter rail could look like for Christchurch. 

 

“This is just the first stop on the journey toward commuter rail for Canterbury.” 

 

The service offers themed carriages, giveaways, and a strongly social atmosphere.  

 

For those looking to travel in premium comfort, there will also be a Business Class option thanks to Crusaders partner 2degrees – ensuring some fans can quite literally rail in style. 

 

2degrees CEO Mark Callander says the Business Class carriage reflects the power of partnership. 

 

“Working with the Crusaders on bold ideas like this elevates our partnership in meaningful ways,” Callander says.  

 

“At the same time, it speaks directly to what 2degrees is really about – creating opportunities for customers to have great experiences connected to the services and products we’re part of. This is about adding value and helping fans stay connected on every step of the journey.” 

 

The idea builds on the sold-out pre-season fan train to Timaru earlier this year, which drew rave reviews for being seamless, social and fun. With nothing but great feedback from fans on board, the Crusaders and Mainland Rail were quick to realise they were on the right track. 

 

To elevate the journey further, Gerry's Bakery and Moa Brewing Company are on board, offering Moa’s Southern Alps Ultra Low Carb Lager and Gerry’s Great Southern Pies – a little southern hospitality before fans steam into the stadium. 

 

Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge says fans are ready for something new. 

 

“The success of the pre-season fan train showed us that our supporters are ready to embrace new match-day experiences,” Mansbridge says.  

 

“It’s also a practical win – helping remove cars from the roads and easing pressure on the CBD during major events.”

 

Mainland Rail has confirmed a temporary solution to support the Crusaders Express with passengers set to disembark via a pop-up ramp at Pilgrim Place, approximately 1km from One New Zealand Stadium.  

 

Christchurch City Council has supported the initiative with a grant of $51,053 from its Capital Endowment Fund to help fund the temporary infrastructure, enabling safe and accessible access for passengers, including those using lightweight mobility devices. 

 

Mayor Phil Mauger says it’s a credit to the team at Mainland Rail. 

 

“It’s fantastic to have more transport options in our city to encourage people out of their cars and into the central city to see everything Christchurch has to offer. I’m so thrilled the Council has been able to support them. It’s great to have new ideas or initiatives in Christchurch and shows we’re willing to give new thinking a go and see if it improves how people get around,” Mauger says.  

 

The Crusaders Express will take fans to the Crusaders first game at One New Zealand Stadium: 

  • Rd 11: Crusaders v Waratahs – Friday 24 April, 7:30pm – Super Round 

Rolleston Station to Moorhouse Ave (return) 

  

Plans are underway for the Crusaders Express to run for the three other Crusaders games at One New Zealand Stadium.  

  • Rd 13: Crusaders v Blues – Friday 8 May, 7:05pm 

Rangiora Station to Moorhouse Ave (return) 

  • Rd 15: Crusaders v Chiefs – Friday 22 May, 7:05pm 

Rolleston Station to Moorhouse Ave (return) 

  • Rd 16: Crusaders v Hurricanes – Friday 29 May, 7:05pm 

Rangiora Station to Moorhouse Ave (return)  

 

Tickets for the Waratahs game are $49 adults, $29 children, $129 family and go on sale 9am Thursday 26 March. 

 

Seats are expected to move quickly, so fans are encouraged to jump aboard early – this experience won’t stay at the station for long.