Queenstown’s historic TSS Earnslaw steamship provides an atmospheric evening on Lake Wakatipu

Aotearoa is the Māori name for New Zealand meaning land of the long white cloud. It is a place defined by soaring mountains ancient forests mirror still lakes and landscapes shaped by fire ice and time.

For travellers seeking a once in a lifetime holiday filled with unforgettable experiences diverse scenery and seamless comfort the New Zealand Signature Rail Cruise and Coach Holiday offers one of the most complete ways to explore both the North and South Islands in a single journey.

This 20 day holiday blends the very best of travel through scenic rail journeys coastal cruises cultural sites and carefully curated sightseeing. With a maximum of only ten travellers and the guidance of a dedicated Western Australian Tour Leader the experience feels relaxed personal and thoughtfully paced.

A  holiday designed for the curious traveller

The journey begins with a flight from Perth to Auckland setting the scene for a holiday that moves effortlessly through New Zealand’s most iconic regions. Travelling by coach rail and cruise allows you to enjoy mountain passes calm bays and dramatic fiords without the need to navigate or plan each segment.

Showcasing New Zealand’s dramatic beauty

New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most scenic railways and this holiday includes three outstanding train experiences.

Glenbrook Vintage Railway offers a charming steam train journey through peaceful farmland where open fields and rural views create a gentle start to the adventure.

The Coastal Pacific traces the edge of the South Island where the Pacific Ocean sits on one side and the Kaikoura Ranges rise on the other. The views shift constantly making this a truly memorable coastal journey.

The famous TranzAlpine between Christchurch and Arthur’s Pass is considered one of the globe’s great train rides. Travellers will cross high viaducts deep gorges braided rivers and the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps.

Cruising experiences that stay with you for life

Several cruise experiences highlight New Zealand’s diverse waterways and coastlines.

The Hole in the Rock cruise in the Bay of Islands offers sparkling water dramatic rock formations and the chance to spot dolphins near Cape Brett.

The Interislander Ferry between Wellington and Picton is often described as one of the most beautiful ferry crossings in the world. The journey through the Marlborough Sounds reveals tranquil bays forested slopes and calm waterways framed by rolling hills.

Queenstown’s historic TSS Earnslaw steamship provides an atmospheric evening on Lake Wakatipu as it makes its way to Walter Peak Station for a dinner experience surrounded by mountain views. (see image)

The overnight cruise on Milford Sound is a standout moment. Travellers glide beneath towering cliffs past waterfalls and through calm water where wildlife such as seals dolphins and penguins may appear. Experiencing the fiord at sunset and again at dawn is one of the most memorable parts of the holiday.

Unmissable highlights across both islands

Auckland and the Bay of Islands

Rotorua’s geothermal wonders

Wellington’s culture and coastal charm

Christchurch and the journey west

West Coast glaciers and Southern Alps

Queenstown’s atmosphere and alpine beauty

Milford Sound Te Anau and Dunedin

Each region introduces new scenery culture and memorable experiences from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to the geothermal world of Rotorua Te Papa Museum in Wellington the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch and the heritage rich landscapes of Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula.

Why travellers choose this holiday

This holiday is ideal for those who want an in depth introduction to New Zealand without the pressure of planning each leg. The combination of rail cruising and sightseeing allows travellers to experience a broad range of landscapes and attractions at a comfortable pace. With a maximum of ten travellers and a dedicated Western Australian Tour Leader the holiday offers a personal supportive and relaxed atmosphere throughout the journey.

With alpine scenery coastal moments cultural experiences wildlife encounters and iconic attractions this 20 day journey remains one of the most rewarding ways to discover the beauty of Aotearoa.

13 March to 1st of April 2026

View the New Zealand Signature Rail Cruise and Coach Holiday