Crusaders launch 'express' transport program for new stadium

The Crusaders only have one game left at Apollo Projects Stadium before their move to the shiny new One New Zealand Stadium, which will play host to the Super Round in late April.

The Super Rugby Pacific game between the Crusaders and the Waratahs will be the first game at the new stadium, the same stadium where the All Blacks will open their 2026 international season against France in July.

But for those who are travelling from Christchurch and beyond to attend games in the future, the Crusaders have linked up with 2degrees and Mainland Rail to deliver a transport service to and from home games.

The “Crusaders Express” will take fans on a journey from Rolleston and Rangiora Stations to games at the new stadium, creating a seamless and enjoyable transport experience to and from Super Rugby Pacific encounters.

Mainland Rail Managing Director Ian Ladd said that the service will be able to move a large number of fans around Christchurch to the games, and a preview on what a rail service could possibly look like further down the line.

“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.

Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge explained how the transport option will add to the game day experience.

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

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

Phil Mauger, the Mayor of Christchurch, says this option is great for the region going forward.

“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,” Mauger said.

“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.”

The Crusaders statement also noted how enjoyable the transport solution will be for fans in 2026.

“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.”

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.