Mainline Steam, South Island Depot, is a heritage railway depot at Middleton, Christchurch 8024, rated 5.0 from 1 review. The website says the group restores and operates mainline steam locomotives and vintage rolling stock, and runs excursions and charter journeys from its Christchurch depot. Trips are advertised on Facebook, in printed media and on the trips page of the website, so check there before you plan a visit. The website's history section tells the story of locomotive J1211, which the trust began to save in the early 1970s and later restored to mainline condition. It warns that seats often sell quickly, so early booking is worth making. For visitors to Middleton, Mainline Steam is a place to learn about New Zealand's steam rail history and book a journey through the South Island's scenery.