Auckland to Christchurch - 16 days
Auckland to Christchurch - 16 days
Auckland to Christchurch - 16 days
16 Days Starting in Auckland, New Zealand and ending in Christchurch, New Zealand
Visiting: Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Nelson, Abel Tasman National Park, Fox Glacier, Mt Aspiring National Park, Wanaka, Te Anau, Fiordland National Park, Queenstown, Twizel, Christchurch
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
18-75
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 16-day journey from Auckland to Christchurch, exploring the diverse landscapes and rich culture of New Zealand. Begin your adventure in Auckland with panoramic city views and Maori cultural experiences. Discover Rotorua's geothermal wonders and enjoy a traditional Maori feast. In Wellington, explore the capital's iconic landmarks before crossing the Cook Strait to the South Island. Cruise through Abel Tasman National Park, marvel at the Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki, and witness the majestic glaciers of Fox Glacier. Experience the serene beauty of Lake Wanaka and the thrill of Milford Sound. Conclude your journey in Christchurch with a charming punt cruise and heritage tram ride. This small group tour offers a perfect blend of guided excursions and leisure time, ensuring an unforgettable exploration of New Zealand's natural and cultural treasures. Enjoy comfortable 4-star accommodations, expert guides, and a variety of included activities and meals.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Auckland
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: M Social Hotel
Upon arrival into Auckland you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day offers free time to explore the local area; why not ask the guide for tips on where to eat in the evening.
Day 2: Auckland
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation Name: Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Auckland – Rotorua. This morning we enjoy an Auckland City tour with panoramic views from Bastion Point, Maori and Pacific Island displays at the Auckland Museum, the quaint Parnell Village, and the picturesque waterfront. Following this we leave Auckland and head to Rotorua, the heart of New Zealand's thermal and cultural region. When we arrive we will take part in a city tour before heading to our nights accommodation.
In the afternoon we have some time to relax before we visit Tamaki Maori Village for Te Pa Tu, an evening experience and feast that changes with the Maori lunar calendar. We experience Maori culture and feast on seasonal cuisine in the forest Pa surrounded by Tawa trees and bonfires. The 4-course fusion feast includes Hangi dishes served al fresco or in the dining room, depending on the weather. Return hotel transfers included; other travellers will be on board.
Day 3: Rotorua
Location: Wellington
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree By Hilton Wellington
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rotorua – Wellington. In Rotorua, we'll experience both New Zealand's geothermal wonders and rich Maori heritage. Te Puia is a must-visit, featuring active geothermal sites, indigenous arts, crafts, and a Kiwi conservation project. Their welcoming culture means they treat you like family and we are treated with a private guide whilst we are here. Following this we explore the Blue and Green Lakes, along with Lake Tarawera, site of the Buried Village, a Māori village destroyed by the 1886 Mt. Tarawera eruption. It provides a first hand look at the aftermath, including the loss of the Pink and White Terraces.
This afternoon we fly to Wellington, New Zealand's capital, which is nestled on steep hills around a stunning harbour. It's the country's political and administrative centre, boasting a cosmopolitan feel with offices, stores, cafes, and restaurants. We enjoy a city tour, taking in iconic landmarks like the Parliament Buildings and the 'Beehive.'
Day 4: Wellington
Location: Nelson
Accommodation Name: Rutherford Hotel Nelson
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wellington – Nelson. Today we cross the Cook Strait on one of the most picturesque ferry journeys in the world. Often accompanied by dolphins riding the bow wave, we arrive in Picton on the South Island. We travel to Blenheim, nestled in the heart of the renowned Marlborough wine country. What could be a more perfect way to savour this region, celebrated for its Sauvignon Blanc, than indulging in wine tasting at one of Marlborough's top wineries? From here we head to the delightful town of Nelson, where we spend the next two nights.
Day 5: Nelson
Location: Abel Tasman National Park
Accommodation Name: Rutherford Hotel Nelson
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your choice of activity today must be made at the time of booking. Please let our Reservations team know which included activity you would like to partake in.
We spend today soaking up the beauty of Abel Tasman National Park, with its golden coves, turquoise lagoons and forest ranges. Since there are few roads in this national park we see the sights of it by boat instead. Boarding a small cruiser at Kaiteriteri we head out to enjoy the scenery with plenty of stops along the way for swimming and exploring on foot. Arriving back in Kaiteriteri after the cruise, you have three options.
Option 1 is to relax in the town of Kaiteriteri at leisure.
Option 2 is to join a shorter 7km (2.5 hour) self-guided walk to fabulous Anchorage Beach.
Option 3 is to join a longer 10.5km (4 hour) self-guided walk to Anchorage Beach including the scenic highlights of the South Head lookout, the famous Falls River swing-bridge and Cleopatra’s Pool.
After these activities are completed, we transfer back to Nelson for the evening.
Day 6: Nelson
Location: Nelson
Accommodation Name: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki
Meals Included: Breakfast
Nelson – Punakaiki. This morning we journey through the captivating Nelson Lakes National Park, which features rugged peaks, lush forests, glacial lakes, and the majestic Southern Alps. We take some time to explore the charming village of St. Arnaud, before turning inland along the Buller River Gorge, a stunning scenic drive. We then follow the coastline south to the small settlement of Punakaiki. This area is renowned for its wild and untamed shoreline, as well as the famous 'Pancake Rocks' – striking limestone formations that stand as a remarkable testament to the forces of nature.
Day 7: Punakaiki
Location: Fox Glacier
Accommodation Name: Distinction Fox Glacier Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Punakaiki – Fox Glacier. Leaving Punakaiki behind we travel on to Hokitika on the West Coast where we visit its galleries of greenstone jewellery and artwork. Continuing to Hokitika Gorge we stretch our legs and discover the blue/green waters that pass through the rugged rocks. Following the road south we reach Franz Josef and then on to the village of Fox which is where the huge rivers of snow and ice of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers flow from vast snowfields high in the Southern Alps, down almost to sea level. If the weather allows there is the option of a helicopter ride over the glaciers at an extra cost.
Day 8: Mt Aspiring National Park
Location: Mt Aspiring National Park
Accommodation Name: Edgewater Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fox Glacier – Wanaka. First thing today we visit nearby Lake Matheson which, when weather conditions are just right, perfectly mirrors Mount Cook in its waters creating a stunning visual effect. From here we head up over the Haast Past along the river road, which took more than 40 years to complete, travelling deep into Mt Aspiring National Park to Lake Wanaka and the picturesque resort town of Wanaka.
Day 9: Wanaka
Location: Wanaka
Accommodation Name: Edgewater Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your choice of activity today must be made at the time of booking. Please let our Reservations team know which included activity you would like to partake in.
Today we have a choice of two included excursions. Option 1 sees you join an eco tour. Depart Wanaka by boat and escape civilisation as we cruise to an island where we hike through vibrant native vegetation to find a hidden mountaintop lake surrounded by small islands. We trek on to reach the island's summit for a 360-degree view of Lake Wanaka, its mountains and valleys, and the Arethusa Pool. Look out for the rare Buff Weka, a flightless bird extinct on Mainland NZ since 1920, which often joins visitors.
Option 2 is a 4WD adventure. We will explore a perfect mix of stunning scenery, history, and farm life in New Zealand's High Country. We will traverse remote back roads on an authentic farm with Lake Wanaka as our backdrop, surrounded by nature's beauty. We get up close to farm animals and visit historical sites, all while enjoying optional hikes through alpine meadows and lakeside forests, offering a unique insight into Wanaka's history, heritage, modern farming, and breathtaking landscapes.
When we return to Wanaka we have the afternoon at leisure to relax or enjoy the town.
Day 10: Wanaka
Location: Te Anau
Accommodation Name: Distinction Luxmore Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wanaka – Te Anau. We begin our day from Wanaka, stopping at the iconic Cardrona Pub. Then we venture through the Crown Range road to explore historic Arrowtown, a charming gold rush village nestled beneath majestic peaks near the Arrow River. We carry on along the scenic road between the Remarkables mountain range and stunning Lake Wakatipu before traversing a glacial valley turned farmland to reach Lake Te Anau, the South Island's largest freshwater lake and the entry point to Fiordland National Park.
Day 11: Te Anau
Location: Fiordland National Park
Accommodation Name: Scenic Suites Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Te Anau – Queenstown. The journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound is one of the most scenic drives you can experience. Fiordland National Park, part of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area is awe-inspiring, and features towering mountains and deep valleys sculpted by ancient glaciers. Milford Sound, famously dubbed the 'eighth wonder of the world' by Rudyard Kipling, is a breathtaking destination in any weather.
Following this we embark on a comfortable cruise, passing the iconic Mitre Peak to reach the Tasman Sea. Keep a lookout for seals and dolphins, which often grace the fiord's waters. After the cruise we retrace our route back to Te Anau and then journey through the Southland farmlands and circle the stunning Lake Wakatipu to reach Queenstown.
Day 12: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Scenic Suites Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast
Nestled amid majestic mountains and on the pristine shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown's natural beauty and unique ambiance provide an ideal setting for a visit filled with adventure, exploration, or relaxation. Today, we have the freedom to choose our own activities: thrill-seekers might opt for activities like zip-lining at Bob's Peak, a heart-pounding Shotover jet-boat ride, or white-water rafting. For those of us seeking a more leisurely experience, we can enjoy a gondola ride to Bob's Peak or embark on a 4WD safari to Skippers Canyon. Queenstown also offers boutique wineries, local gardens, and a chance to cruise Lake Wakatipu on the elegant steamship TSS Earnslaw for a visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Day 13: Queenstown
Location: Twizel
Accommodation Name: Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Queenstown – Twizel. This morning we head north through Kawarau Gorge and past the scenic Lake Dunstan. We cross the Central Otago Countryside to the Lindis Pass where we descend into the Mackenzie Basin where the Southern Alps dominate the horizon. We enjoy a picturesque drive along Lake Pukaki to arrive at Mt. Cook Village, nestled at the base of New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mt. Cook. Our overnight stay awaits in the charming town of Twizel.
Day 14: Twizel
Location: Christchurch
Accommodation Name: Distinction Christchurch Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Twizel – Christchurch. Today we get to experience Kiwi culture by visiting a local home on Lake Tekapo's shores to learn the art of making Pavlova, a beloved New Zealand dessert. We enjoy our Pavlova during morning tea, taking in the stunning lake views. We admire the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, beautifully situated against the backdrop of the Southern Alps. Continuing our journey through the high country's tussock plains, passing through charming towns like Fairlie and Geraldine, en route to Ashburton we then travel across the fertile Canterbury Plains to reach Christchurch, a city that combines post-earthquake regeneration with a rich blend of heritage, culture, and innovation.
Day 15: Christchurch
Location: Christchurch
Accommodation Name: Distinction Christchurch Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning we embark on a leisurely punt cruise along the River Avon in the company of boatmen sporting straw boaters and Edwardian attire as we glide through the picturesque Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Following this we experience the evolving cityscape of Christchurch from the comfort of a beautifully restored heritage tram. As our journey together is coming to a close, we'll conclude the day with a laid-back farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 16: Christchurch
Location: Christchurch
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today our adventure in New Zealand comes to an end. A transfer takes you to Christchurch Airport for your flight home.
What's Included
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Accommodation
4-star hotels -
15 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 2 dinners
Enjoy 15 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners during your tour.
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15 nights 4 star hotels
Stay in 4-star hotels for 15 nights throughout the tour.
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Airport arrival and departure transfers on day 1 and day 16
Airport transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour.
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Escorted by an expert local guide/driver with specialist local guides at some sites
The tour is escorted by an expert local guide/driver, with specialist local guides at certain sites.
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All relevant transfers and transportation in modern air-conditioned vehicle
All transfers and transportation are provided in a modern air-conditioned vehicle.
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Economy class flight from Rotorua - Wellington
An economy class flight from Rotorua to Wellington is included.
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Ferry across the Cook Strait
A ferry crossing of the Cook Strait is included in the tour.
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Touring of Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington & Christchurch
Guided tours of Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, and Christchurch are included.
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Te Pa Tu Maori experience
Experience the Te Pa Tu Maori cultural evening.
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Te Puia & Lake Terawera visit
Visit Te Puia and Lake Terawera during the tour.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.
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Items of a personal nature (telephone calls, laundry, travel insurance etc)
Personal items such as telephone calls, laundry, and travel insurance are not included.
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Optional activities
Optional activities are not included in the tour package.
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Tip for your tour guide / driver. We recommend you allow $4 - 7 USD per day per traveller. Tipping your tour guide is an entirely personal gesture.
Tips for your tour guide/driver are not included.
It is recommended to allow $4 - 7 USD per day per traveler.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of modern design and comfort at the M Social Hotel in Auckland, the luxurious Millennium Hotel in Rotorua, and the serene Regal Palms Resort. Enjoy stylish stays at DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington, Rutherford Hotel Nelson, and Scenic Hotel Punakaiki. Relax at Distinction Fox Glacier Hotel, Edgewater Hotel in Wanaka, and Distinction Luxmore Hotel in Te Anau. Discover the charm of Scenic Suites Queenstown, Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel in Twizel, and Distinction Christchurch Hotel.
Age Policy
18+The average age of passengers on these tours is between 55-75yrs. Pure Discoveries do not permit children.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with modern air-conditioned vehicles, including airport transfers on arrival and departure days. Enjoy an economy class flight from Rotorua to Wellington and a scenic ferry ride across the Cook Strait. Experience guided city tours and explore New Zealand's stunning landscapes with ease.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a Te Pa Tu Maori cultural evening in Rotorua, where you can experience Maori culture and enjoy a four-course fusion feast. Additionally, there is a visit to a local home on Lake Tekapo's shores to learn the art of making Pavlova, a beloved New Zealand dessert.
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Are there any opportunities for wildlife viewing during the tour?
Yes, during the Milford Sound cruise, you can look out for seals and dolphins that often grace the fiord's waters. Additionally, the eco tour in Wanaka offers a chance to see the rare Buff Weka, a flightless bird.
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What are the options for activities in Abel Tasman National Park?
In Abel Tasman National Park, you can choose to relax in the town of Kaiteriteri, join a shorter 7km self-guided walk to Anchorage Beach, or opt for a longer 10.5km walk that includes scenic highlights like the South Head lookout, Falls River swing-bridge, and Cleopatra’s Pool.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes all relevant transfers and transportation in a modern air-conditioned vehicle. There is also an economy class flight from Rotorua to Wellington and a ferry crossing the Cook Strait.
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 15 nights in 4-star hotels, such as the M Social Hotel in Auckland, Millennium Hotel Rotorua, and Distinction Christchurch Hotel, among others.
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Is there any flexibility in choosing activities during the tour?
Yes, there are options to choose from during the tour. For example, in Wanaka, you can choose between an eco tour or a 4WD adventure. Similarly, in Abel Tasman National Park, you have options for different walking tours or relaxing in Kaiteriteri.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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