Wellington & South Island - 14 days

Wellington & South Island - 14 days

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14 Days From

$5675

$5391

Wellington & South Island - 14 days

14 Days Starting in Wellington, New Zealand and ending in Christchurch, New Zealand

Visiting: Wellington, Nelson, Abel Tasman National Park, Fox Glacier, Mt Aspiring National Park, Wanaka, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Twizel, Christchurch

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

Interests:

Wildlife Tours

From: $5675 $5391 Operator discount: -$284

NB: Prices correct on 24-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through New Zealand's stunning South Island, starting in the vibrant capital of Wellington. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Abel Tasman National Park with a scenic cruise, and marvel at the unique Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki. Explore the serene landscapes of Wanaka with options for an eco-tour or a thrilling 4X4 adventure. Discover the majestic Fiordland National Park and cruise the iconic Milford Sound, keeping an eye out for playful dolphins. Enjoy a free day in Queenstown, where adventure and relaxation await, and take in the awe-inspiring views of Mount Cook. Conclude your adventure in Christchurch with a charming punt cruise and a farewell dinner. This small group tour offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and leisure, all while staying in comfortable 4-star accommodations and guided by expert local guides.

Highlights

  • Abel Tasman National Park – Cruise the waters and enjoy optional hiking across wild beaches and lush scenery.

  • Discover the world-famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes at Punakaiki.

  • Choose from an ecological tour to a serene island on Lake Wanaka or a 4X4 excursion into the surrounding countryside.

  • Journey through Fiordland National Park, enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

  • Enjoy a cruise on Milford Sound, looking out for dolphins.

  • Spend a free day in Queenstown with options like zip-lining, rafting, or a 4X4 safari.

  • Drive along the shores of Lake Pukaki and enjoy views of Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak.

  • See the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd set against the majestic backdrop of Lake Tekapo.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Wellington

Location: Wellington

Accommodation Name: Wellington

Welcome to Wellington! Today is yours to explore New Zealand's friendly capital city. Wander Oriental Parade, explore Cuba Street's unique boutiques, and don't miss the enlightening Te Papa, the national museum.

Day 2: Wellington

Location: Nelson

Accommodation Name: 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 3: Nelson

Location: Abel Tasman National Park

Accommodation Name: 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 4: Nelson

Location: Nelson

Accommodation Name: 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 5: Punakaiki

Location: Fox Glacier

Accommodation Name: Fox Glacier

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 6: Mt Aspiring National Park

Location: Mt Aspiring National Park

Accommodation Name: Wanaka

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 7: Wanaka

Location: Wanaka

Accommodation Name: Wanaka

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 8: Wanaka

Location: Te Anau

Accommodation Name: Te Anau

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 9: Te Anau

Location: Milford Sound

Accommodation Name: 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.





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 10: Queenstown

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation Name: 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 11: Queenstown

Location: Twizel

Accommodation Name: Twizel

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 12: Twizel

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation Name: Christchurch

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 13: Christchurch

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation Name: Christchurch

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 14: 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

  • Accommodation
    4-star hotels

  • 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 1 dinner

    Enjoy 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner during your tour.

  • 13 nights 4 star hotels

    Stay in 4-star hotels for 13 nights.

  • Airport arrival and departure transfers on day 1 and day 14

    Airport transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour.

  • 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 some sites.

  • All relevant transfers and transportation in modern air-conditioned vehicle

    All transfers and transportation are provided in a modern air-conditioned vehicle.

  • Ferry across the Cook Strait

    A ferry crossing of the Cook Strait is included.

  • Touring of Christchurch

    Touring of Christchurch is included in the itinerary.

  • Wine tasting at one of Marlborough’s premier wineries

    Enjoy wine tasting at one of Marlborough’s premier wineries.

  • Abel Tasman National Park cruise

    A cruise in Abel Tasman National Park is included.

  • 'Pancake Rocks' visit at Punakaiki

    Visit the 'Pancake Rocks' at Punakaiki.

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What's Not Included

  • International flights and visas

    International flights and visas are not included.

  • Items of a personal nature (telephone calls, laundry, travel insurance etc)

    Personal items such as telephone calls, laundry, and travel insurance are not included.

  • Optional activities

    Optional activities are not included in the tour price.

  • Tip for your tour guide / driver

    Tips for your tour guide/driver are not included.

    It is recommended to allow $4 - 7 USD per day per traveler.

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 modern air-conditioned vehicles with all relevant transfers included, and experience a scenic ferry ride across the Cook Strait.

Accommodation

Enjoy 13 nights in 4-star hotels, providing comfort and relaxation after each day's adventure across New Zealand's stunning landscapes.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of activities can I choose from 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, the Falls River swing-bridge, and Cleopatra’s Pool.

  • What are the options for activities in Wanaka?

    In Wanaka, you can choose between an eco tour that includes a boat trip to an island with a hike to a mountaintop lake, or a 4WD adventure exploring New Zealand's High Country with opportunities to see farm animals and historical sites.

  • What is included in the Milford Sound experience?

    The Milford Sound experience includes a scenic drive through Fiordland National Park and a comfortable cruise on Milford Sound, where you can see Mitre Peak and possibly spot seals and dolphins.

  • What unique experience is offered in Christchurch?

    In Christchurch, you can enjoy a punt cruise along the River Avon with boatmen in Edwardian attire and a ride on a beautifully restored heritage tram, providing a unique way to see the city.

  • What is the age policy for this tour?

    The tour is for adults aged 18 and over, with the average age of passengers being between 55-75 years. Children are not permitted on this tour.

  • 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.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • 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+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Nov 29, 2024 - Dec 12, 2024
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Operator discount: -$324

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Operator discount: -$326

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Operator discount: -$326

Prices last published on 24-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • 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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