The Christchurch Mayor says he takes his hat off to those behind Canterbury's 'Event Express' train

Mainland Rail is meeting with Christchurch City Council next month to finalise plans on the privately-run passenger train.

It aims to bring almost six thousand fans per event, from towns near Christchurch.

Mayor Phil Mauger says the council is keen to help make the transport experience as good as possible for passengers.

He says it's important to support ideas like this that give Christchurch a point of difference.