Wellington & South Island - 14 days
Wellington & South Island - 14 days
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:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
18-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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
Itinerary
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
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Accommodation
4-star hotels -
13 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 1 dinner
Enjoy 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner during your tour.
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13 nights 4 star hotels
Stay in 4-star hotels for 13 nights.
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Airport arrival and departure transfers on day 1 and day 14
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 some 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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Ferry across the Cook Strait
A ferry crossing of the Cook Strait is included.
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Touring of Christchurch
Touring of Christchurch is included in the itinerary.
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Wine tasting at one of Marlborough’s premier wineries
Enjoy wine tasting at one of Marlborough’s premier wineries.
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Abel Tasman National Park cruise
A cruise in Abel Tasman National Park is included.
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'Pancake Rocks' visit at Punakaiki
Visit the 'Pancake Rocks' at Punakaiki.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included.
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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 price.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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