The Overland Connection is a unique scenic experience that combines The Overlander train from Auckland or Hamilton to Wellington, an Interislander ferry crossing between Wellington and Picton, connecting with The TranzCoastal train between Picton and Christchurch.

The Overland Connection begins with The Overlander train from Auckland or Hamilton travelling through 5 very unique geographical regions of the North Island from the dairy farmlands of Hamilton region, ascending up the world famous Raurimu Spiral in the Central North Island to the volcanic plateau, passing the volcanic mountains of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro, the North Island ski towns of National Park and Ohakune, before desending through stunning river gorges to the rolling farming landscape of the Palmerston North region to Wellington - the Harbour Capital for a 1 or 2 night stopover in this unique, compact city offering a range of cultural, sightseeing and shopping activities.

From Wellington you board an Interislander ferry for a daytime sailing from Wellington, with it's picturesque harbour, crossing Cook Strait before entering the magnificent Marlborough Sounds to Picton.

The 3 hour (92 kilometre) ferry journey is aboard the ferry “Kaitaki', a  modern ship with a range of onboard facilities from eateries, a shop, two movie theatres, a games arcade, a large bar with live entertainment, a children's play area,  numerous passenger lounges, 3 open air decks and a friendly onboard  crew to assist  you.

Your Interislander journey ends at Picton located in a sheltered marine harbour where you will have time to experience this charming small town. 

From Picton you board The TranzCoastal train travelling south along the eastern coast of the South Island, passing through the local Marlborough vineyards, Lake Grassmere Salt Ponds, along rugged coastline to Kaikoura - famous for viewing whales and dolphin swimming to Christchurch.

From Christchurch, you may want to take the optional train journey on the famous award winning The TranzAlpine train from Christchurch crossing through the Southern Alps to Greymouth on the west coast of the South Island, either a day excursion or one way travel.

The Overlander and The TranzCoastal trains have air-conditioned carriages with panoramic windows, open air viewing platform from which you can take scenic photographs, a buffet carriage where you can purchase small meals, snacks and drinks and an onboard crew provide commentary about the passing scenery and can assist you with your needs.  

You can start your Overland Connection experience from Christchurch, Hamilton or Auckland.