Tracks, Fjords & Kiwi Shores: Journey Across New Zealand

From steaming geysers and Māori traditions in the North to towering glaciers and fjords in the South, New Zealand is a country that seems made for adventure. And what better way to experience it than on a 20-day journey that combines rail, cruise and coach — the perfect trio for exploring this land of contrasts.

Villa Carlotta’s New Zealand Signature Rail, Cruise & Coach Holiday runs twice annually, in November and March (dates subject to change), giving you two seasonal opportunities to discover the wonders of Aotearoa.

Travelling from Auckland through to Queenstown, you’ll ride three of the world’s most scenic trains, cruise pristine waterways, and explore vibrant cities, charming towns and natural icons along the way. This is the ultimate way to see New Zealand — a country where every turn in the track reveals another breathtaking landscape.

A journey through the North Island

The adventure begins in Auckland, New Zealand’s bustling harbour city. From here, the pace slows as we travel north to the Bay of Islands, a subtropical paradise of turquoise seas, dotted with more than 140 islands. A cruise across these sparkling waters offers the perfect introduction to the country’s natural splendour and layered history.

Heading inland, Rotorua bubbles with geothermal activity. Geysers erupt, mud pools bubble and the scent of sulphur hangs in the air. Here, Māori culture comes alive in powerful performances and warm welcomes, offering a glimpse into traditions that remain at the heart of the nation.

The Northern Explorer train carries us through the volcanic heart of the island, with snow-capped peaks, rugged farmland and endless rolling hills flashing past the windows. Our North Island experience concludes in Wellington, the nation’s capital. Surrounded by hills and harbour, this compact city delights with a visit to Te Papa, New Zealand’s bold and interactive national museum.

Crossing into the South Island

The journey continues across the Cook Strait aboard the Interislander Ferry, a scenic voyage linking the North and South Islands. As we sail into Picton, the first chapter of South Island beauty unfolds with the sheltered bays of the Marlborough Sounds.

From Picton, the Coastal Pacific train hugs the shoreline, delivering endless views of the Kaikōura ranges and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Arriving in Christchurch, known as the Garden City, you’ll find a charming mix of English heritage, leafy parks and a creative spirit born from resilience.

Into the heart of the Southern Alps

The TranzAlpine train carries us across the Southern Alps, one of the world’s most renowned rail journeys. From Canterbury’s patchwork plains to Arthur’s Pass and on to the wild West Coast, the landscapes grow ever more dramatic. At Greymouth we continue to Franz Josef, where the mighty glacier descends from the mountains almost to sea level — a rare and humbling sight.

The jewels of the South

Queenstown sparkles as the jewel of the South. Cradled by The Remarkables mountain range and perched on Lake Wakatipu, it’s a playground for travellers. From lakeside strolls to adventure activities, there’s time to soak up the alpine atmosphere before we journey to Milford Sound.

Carved by glaciers and framed by sheer cliffs, Milford Sound is one of the great natural wonders of the world. A cruise through its deep waters, beneath waterfalls and snow-dusted peaks, is a moment travellers never forget.

The road then takes us to Dunedin, where Scottish heritage is etched into grand stone buildings and wildlife thrives on the rugged Otago Peninsula. Finally, Mt Cook National Park offers a fitting finale. Here, New Zealand’s highest mountain rises proudly above alpine valleys, braided rivers and glacier-fed lakes — a landscape so striking it feels almost otherworldly.

The ultimate New Zealand journey

By the time the tour concludes, you will have traced New Zealand from top to bottom, weaving together its most iconic railways, breathtaking cruises and carefully curated coach touring. This is a journey of contrasts — from geothermal wonderlands to alpine peaks, from island-studded bays to historic cities.

Villa Carlotta’s New Zealand Signature Rail, Cruise & Coach Holiday is more than a holiday — it’s the chance to experience the full breadth of a country that captures the heart of every traveler.

Contact us now to book your once in a lifetime holiday.

View the full travel itinerary here:

New Zealand Itinerary November 2025

New Zealand Itinerary March 2026aland Itinerary November 2025