Monte Cassino Battlefield Tour for New Zealanders
This private full-day tour focuses exclusively on the role of the 2nd New Zealand Division in the Battle of Monte Cassino. Designed for families, history enthusiasts, and descendants of Kiwi soldiers, this immersive experience allows you to explore the exact sites where the New Zealand troops fought and fell during one of WWII’s toughest campaigns.
Led by historian and licensed battlefield guide Dr. Danila Bracaglia, the tour includes multimedia content, personal stories, and expert commentary. Pick-up is available from your hotel in Cassino or the railway station at 9:45 AM. The itinerary can be tailored to your interests.
Itinerary Highlights
- Monte Cassino Abbey – Bombed in February 1944 and later rebuilt, this iconic site was a strategic stronghold and symbolic target for Allied forces.
- Cassino War Cemetery – Final resting place of New Zealand and Commonwealth soldiers. A solemn and meaningful stop for reflection.
- New Zealand Memorial – A dedicated monument to the NZ Division’s sacrifice at Cassino, set in a peaceful hilltop position.
- Monte Trocchio – Observation point used by New Zealand commanders for planning and reconnaissance; panoramic battlefield views.
- Cassino Town Crypt & Ruins – Explore the remains of war-damaged buildings and hear the story of urban combat and civilian suffering.
- Railway Station & Embankment – One of the most contested points of the battle, where the NZ Division fought under constant fire.
- Horseshoe Ridge and Castle Hill – High-ground positions targeted by the New Zealanders during repeated assaults.
- Personalized Stops – Possible additions based on family history or regimental interest.
Facts & Numbers
During the battles at Monte Cassino in early 1944, approximately 9,000 New Zealand soldiers were deployed as part of the 2nd New Zealand Division, under the command of General Bernard Freyberg. The division played a central role in the second battle of Cassino, particularly in February and March, enduring some of the heaviest fighting of the campaign.
In total, the New Zealanders suffered over 1,600 casualties at Cassino, including 343 killed, more than 1,200 wounded, and 42 taken prisoner. The 28th (Māori) Battalion was particularly affected, with 130 out of 200 soldiers killed, wounded, or captured in one assault alone.
The following regiments and units from the 2nd New Zealand Division took part in the Cassino operations:
- 5th Infantry Brigade: 21st, 23rd, and 28th (Māori) Battalions
- 6th Infantry Brigade: 24th, 25th, and 26th Battalions
- 4th Armoured Brigade: 18th, 19th, and 20th Armoured Regiments
- Divisional Artillery: 4th, 5th, and 6th Field Regiments
- Royal New Zealand Engineers
- Medical Corps, Signals, and Service Corps
An Emotional Experience
The tour includes wartime footage, maps, and veteran interviews presented on a monitor in our private Mercedes van. This multimedia support brings the battle to life and offers a deeply moving, informative experience.
Monte Cassino WWII Tour
- WWII historian and battlefield guide
- Private Mercedes van with A/C a
- Onboard video system
- Hotel or station pickup
- Lunch, snacks, and drinks
- Flexible, personalized itinerary
Booking & Contact
BOOK THIS TOUR
Contact Dr. Danila Bracaglia to reserve your private WWII New Zealand battlefield tour.
Email: danila.bracaglia@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +39 338 2458831